Former Kansas State Wildcats football center Sam Hecht spent four seasons in Manhattan under former head coach Chris Klieman. In that time, he became one of the most dominant offensive lineman in program history. Now, he's got a chance to take that talent to the next level.
Why Kansas State C Sam Hecht deserves to rise in predictions ahead of 2026 NFL Draft
Hecht didn't just deliver for the Wildcats between his freshman and senior seasons, he made a difference. The Shawnee, Kansas native saw playing time in 42 games, including 25 consecutive starts between 2024 and 2025.
It wasn't just his 6'4", 300 lbs statue that made him a tough matchup. It was his discipline. Like many others on the line, Hecht saw 759 offensive snaps without committing an accepted penalty, a stat that's almost unheard of in today's day and age at his position.
Compared to those ahead of him, he's one of only a handful at the position with a stat like that. It's no surprise either that he picked up All-Big 12 honors in each of his final two seasons.
Where Sam Hecht ranks among other centers
Hecht enters the NFL Draft a projected the second or third best player at his position. According to earlier reports, he's projected to fall between the third and fourth rounds.
PFF ranks Hecht as the second-best center behind Auburn's Connor Lew, who's projected at the 80th overall pick. Both rank above Florida's Jake Slaughter, Iowa's Logan Jones and Kentucky's Jager Burton among others.
Hecht's likely NFL Draft destination
One thing is for certain: NFL Draft Rankings don't slate him in the first round. Speculation of Kansas State fans hearing one of their own's name called on night one is slightly improbably.
And that's not because he lacks the talent, it's simply because of what most teams need. Luckily for Hecht, there are multiple teams with aneed for his position.
That includes the Baletimore Ravens, Chicago Bears and Minnesota Vikings. Given his ability to create space and get to the second level, he'll create space wherever needed.
His first couple seasons, like many others, could likely be spent as a backup wherever he lands. The only difference right now is where he'll end up.
For more information, visit the NFL Draft Tracker.
Bookmark Jug of Snyder and follow us on X with the username @JugofSnyder and Facebook @ksujugofsnyder.
Add us as a preferred source on Google