The NFL has put a premium on the quarterback, which means more money for offensive tackles and pass rushers. But while many are focused on protecting the outside of the pocket, the safe haven for a quarterback is being able to step up into the pocket to avoid pressure and throw. When you have bad interior offensive linemen, your quarterback loses that spot and is forced to roll out right into the sack. That is what makes guards and centers so key in the draft, even if they aren’t drafted as high. Now I present to you my top-five senior interior offensive linemen.

5. Weston Richburg Center, Colorado State

The first small-school prospect on this list, Richburg is rocketing up the boards and had a chance to prove himself this year against the big defensive line of the Alabama Crimson Tide. Richburg has shown off throughout his career with the Rams playing at tackle and guard, but eventually found his home snapping the football.

Richburg has nice size at 6’4” but only weighs 300 pounds, which can be deceiving when you watch him play.  Richburg certainly has athleticism, with experience all along the offensive line and has shown his ability to pull. One of the big things that shows up when watching him is the mean punch he delivers to the chest of his opponents to drive them away from the ball and get them off balance.

That mix of explosion and power makes for a deadly combo, which gives him the advantage, especially in pass protection. Once he has established his position and has his man off balance. He can hold his ground and keep the interior pocket clean, allowing his quarterback to step up and make sharp throws. Richburg still has room to get stronger which, will help him against the bigger defensive tackles at the next level.

4. Gabe Jackson Offensive Guard, Mississippi State

Jackson has seen his draft stock slip a bit this year but he is still locked in as a second-round talent. The first thing that will pop out at you is Jackson’s impressive strength and the ability to just grab a guy between the pads and glide him backwards. Jackson is able to make up for his lack of athleticism with his power and instincts.

Jackson has been the rock of the Bulldogs’ offensive line as a four-year starter while playing in the toughest division in all of college football. Coaches have praised Jackson for his work ethic and durability, putting in work every day to improve and never missing a play. Jackson isn’t a prospect that will wow you but he is reliable and can start for an NFL team for years to come.

3. Travis Swanson Center, Arkansas

My first center on this list and Swanson is definitely the best player at his position in the 2014 class. After initially feeling like this year’s class wasn’t strong, I watched Swanson more and came away more and more impressed.

The center position can be underappreciated, the only time you get recognition is when you have a bad snap or just get blown up and allow inside pressure to get through. Swanson’s size may not pop out but he shines once the ball is snapped and he can get into position.

He does an excellent job getting his hands between his opponent’s shoulder pads and pushing him back with power. He doesn’t get caught up holding his man for the entire play, showing the ability to disengage and help a teammate or move to the next man. Swanson can fit into any offense at center and quickly earn the trust of his quarterback and fellow linemen.

2. Zach Martin Offensive Guard, Notre Dame

While Notre Dame’s 2014 draft prospects may be more known for the defensive line, one name that really is gaining more recognition is Zach Martin on the offensive line. Martin’s stock has really been rising late this year thanks to some recent dominating play that has helped him stand out on the map.

Martin has been serving as Notre Dame’s left tackle but will be flipped inside when he arrives at the NFL. Martin certainly doesn’t lack a motor, he treats every play like it’s the championship game and he keeps fighting until the play is dead.

He does struggle to his outside shoulder but being moved inside will help that issue. Martin has a lot of power but handles more athletic linemen very well with aggressive hand usage and placement. Martin lacks ideal size but makes up for it with smart play and consistent effort on every snap.

1. Cyril Richardson Offensive Guard, Baylor

If you are looking for a player who mixes nastiness and athleticism, Cyril Richardson is your man and it’s one of the reasons he is a first-round prospect. Richardson has everything you look for in a premier guard; size at 6’5 and 340 pounds, impressive athleticism and the grit and mean streak you look for in tough linemen.

Richardson’s athleticism can help him pull on blocks or get to the second level. Richardson excels in pass protection where he does a very good job anchoring and keeping leverage with his man. He uses a strong punch, helping him get the initial advantage and establishing power over his opponent. When matched up against faster defensive linemen, he has the quick feet to move and shadow them and help keep the backfield clean.