At the recent Best of the Midwest Combine in Indianapolis, several players stepped forward to keep an eye on going forward. One of the more under-the-radar prospects was offensive lineman Lukas Hemmelgarn from Bellefontaine (Ohio) Benjamin Logan High School.
The 6-foot-5, 270-pound Hemmelgarn looks to be still growing into his body with a size 17 shoe but shows potential as a center or guard.
How was Hemmelgarn’s experience at the Best of the Midwest?
“It was a good experience for me,” said Hemmelgarn. “Going through the combine testing took a while, but it was good to experience what it would be like taking part in an actual combine.
“The coaches did a great job with the skill training as it was well run. They went over a lot of the key fundamentals we could carry over into the drills and during the one-on-ones.”
Hemmelgarn plays on both sides of the ball but projects as an offensive lineman on film. What does he feel are his strengths and area to work on at this time?
“I feel my strength is my physical strength and ability to drive block,” he said. I’m also very coachable. However, I feel I need to work on controlling my body as I’m still growing into it. Since my freshman year, I’ve added three inches and around 30-pounds.”
Academically, Hemmelgarn looks strong with a solid GPA and an understanding of what he wants to study in college.
“Currently, I have a 3.3 GPA in honors, CCP (College Credit Plus), and AP classes (Advanced Placement),” he continued. “I’ll be taking the ACT next week. Right now, I’m looking at studying chemistry or forensics.”
As for schools showing interest and possible summer plans, Hemmelgarn sounds open.
“I’m open to where I’m planning to camp this summer,” he said. “My dream school is Army West Point. I’ve received invitations to Penn and Dartmouth for Junior Days.”
We found Hemmelgarn to have advanced brute physical strength from film and live evaluation during the Best of the Midwest Combine. Plays center at Benjamin Logan but could bounce to guard as well. Strong base but, at times, plays high. He was solid during one-on-ones at BOMW, but the film is limited with plays showing him pass blocking. He needs to keep working on technique, but his size will make someone a solid player. The question will be at what level. Dave Berk – Recruiting Analyst
