Connor Lew is a center and 2026 NFL Draft prospect who spent three seasons at Auburn University. A native of Kennesaw, Georgia, Lew was a four-star recruit in the 2023 class, rated as a top-10 interior offensive line prospect nationally by Rivals and ESPN and selected to the All-American Bowl. He committed to the Tigers over Miami and a host of other programs. After arriving in Auburn, Lew stepped into the starting lineup as a true freshman in Week 8 of the 2023 season following an injury to the starter, earning SEC Freshman of the Week honors, a spot on the All-Freshman team, and true freshman All-American recognition from multiple outlets. He became the full-time starter in 2024, starting all 12 games and earning team captain honors for 2025. His junior season was cut short in October when he tore his ACL during a game against Missouri, ending his year with seven starts before he declared for the draft rather than return for a fourth season.
At 6 feet 3 inches and approximately 310 pounds, Lew brings exceptional football intelligence to the center position, with a processing speed in pass protection that scouts frequently compare to more experienced players despite his age. His eyes are consistently clear pre-snap as he diagnoses stunts and blitzes, and his quick, accurate hands allow him to latch onto rushers early and control reps through the down. His frame is considered underdeveloped and he will need continued growth in strength to handle NFL power, and some evaluators note that his lack of overwhelming physical traits leaves him without an elite separating attribute. However, his youth, football IQ, and proven SEC experience at a premium position before turning 21 have him projected as a Day 2 to early Day 3 selection, with teams expecting his recovery from the torn ACL to shape exactly when he can contribute as a starter.
