Kentucky Wildcats OL Eli Cox NFL Prospect Profile

Collegiate Career and Performance

Cox began his career at Kentucky as a right guard, showcasing his ability to generate movement in the run game and hold up in pass protection. In 2022, he made the transition to center, starting all 13 games and earning a spot on the prestigious Outland Trophy Watch List. His consistency continued in 2023, where he started the first three games at right guard before moving back to center for the remainder of the season. His performance was recognized with Second Team All-SEC honors from the coaches, and he was named SEC Offensive Lineman of the Week after a dominant showing against Eastern Kentucky.

Strengths

• Positional Versatility: Cox has experience playing both center and guard, providing valuable depth for an NFL offensive line.
• Strong Base and Anchor: At 6'4" and 311 pounds, he possesses the necessary size and lower-body strength to hold up against interior defensive linemen.
• Technical Proficiency: Displays refined hand placement and punch timing in pass protection, effectively neutralizing speed and power rushers.
• Run-game effectiveness: It generates a strong initial surge at the point of attack and consistently creates movement off the line of scrimmage.
• Leadership and Character: A two-time team captain and member of the Frank G. Ham Society of Character, Cox is a respected leader both on and off the field.

Areas for Improvement

• Shorter Arm Length: Struggles to control and sustain blocks against longer defenders, which may limit his effectiveness at the next level.
• Recognition of Blitz Packages: Needs to improve his ability to diagnose and react to complex defensive schemes.
• Blocking in Space: His hand placement and technique deteriorate when working at the second level, reducing his effectiveness on downfield blocks.
• Finishing Mentality: While technically sound, Cox does not consistently display the aggressive, dominant demeanor seen in top-tier offensive line prospects.

NFL Projection and Fit

Cox projects as a valuable depth piece for an NFL team, with the potential to develop into a reliable swing interior lineman. His skill set is best suited for a gap-scheme offense that emphasizes downhill running and limits the need for extensive lateral movement. While he may not be an early-round selection, Cox’s experience, leadership, and versatility make him an intriguing Day 3 prospect. If he lands in the right system and continues to refine his technique, he has the potential to outperform his draft position and carve out a role at the next level.

Career Highlights

• 47 career starts (35 at center, 12 at right guard)
• 2024 All-SEC Coaches' Third Team Selection
• Two-time team captain
• Inducted into the Frank G. Ham Society of Character in 2023
• Overcame multiple coaching changes, playing under four different offensive line coaches

With his combination of experience, technical ability, and leadership, Eli Cox presents an intriguing option for NFL teams seeking reliable interior line depth. While he may need to refine certain aspects of his game, his foundation as a smart, tough, and versatile lineman makes him a strong candidate to earn a roster spot and contribute at the professional level.