Top 10 Returning FCS Interior Offensive Linemen in 2024

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As the 2023 FCS football season draws to a close, attention turns to the upcoming season and the players who will shape its narrative. One crucial position group that often goes unnoticed is the interior offensive line, whose performances lay the foundation for offensive success. In this article, we delve into the world of FCS interior offensive linemen and present the top 10 returning players who are poised to make a significant impact in 2024.

1. Nolan Laufenberg, Center, North Dakota State Bison

Standing at 6'4" and weighing 300 pounds, Laufenberg is a force to be reckoned with. He has been a mainstay on the Bison's offensive line since his freshman year, starting all 14 games in 2022. Laufenberg's exceptional technique and awareness make him a pivotal figure in the Bison's high-octane rushing attack.

2. Dylan Nichols, Guard, Sam Houston State Bearkats

Nichols, a 6'3", 305-pound behemoth, is a versatile lineman who can play both guard and tackle. His experience and strength make him a formidable blocker who can create running lanes for the Bearkats' potent offense. Nichols earned All-Southland Conference honors in 2022.

3. Tavante Beckett, Center, South Dakota State Jackrabbits

Beckett, measuring in at 6'3" and 290 pounds, is a highly skilled center who anchors the Jackrabbits' offensive line. His ability to snap the ball accurately and consistently is crucial to the Jackrabbits' up-tempo offense. Beckett's impressive play earned him All-Missouri Valley Football Conference recognition in 2022.

4. Matt Dimon, Guard, Montana Grizzlies

Dimon, a 6'4", 300-pound guard, is a road grader who excels in run blocking. His physicality and ability to drive opponents off the line of scrimmage create gaps for the Grizzlies' running backs. Dimon was named to the All-Big Sky Conference team in 2022.

5. Ryan Johnson, Center, Northern Iowa Panthers

Johnson, a 6'3", 290-pound center, is a cerebral player who excels at reading defenses and making adjustments. His ability to protect the quarterback and open up running lanes makes him an invaluable asset to the Panthers' offense. Johnson earned All-Missouri Valley Football Conference honors in 2022.

6. Michael Katkic, Guard, James Madison Dukes

Katkic, a 6'4", 315-pound guard, is a physical presence who has been a key cog in the Dukes' offensive line for the past three seasons. His ability to move defenders and create space is essential to the Dukes' success on the ground. Katkic was named to the All-Colonial Athletic Association team in 2022.

7. Andrew Rupiper, Center, Eastern Washington Eagles

Rupiper, a 6'3", 300-pound center, is a versatile lineman who can also play guard. His athleticism and ability to handle twists and stunts make him a difficult matchup for opposing defenses. Rupiper earned All-Big Sky Conference honors in 2022.

8. Joe Spencer, Guard, Campbell Fighting Camels

Spencer, a 6'4", 310-pound guard, is a powerful blocker who helped lead the Fighting Camels to their first FCS playoff appearance in 2022. His physicality and technique make him a nightmare for opponents to contain. Spencer was named to the All-Big South Conference team in 2022.

9. TJ Storment, Center, Jacksonville State Gamecocks

Storment, a 6'2", 310-pound center, is a steady presence in the middle of the Gamecocks' offensive line. His ability to anchor the line and create a stable platform for the running game is essential to Jacksonville State's offensive success. Storment earned All-Ohio Valley Conference honors in 2022.

10. Ben Thomas, Guard, William & Mary Tribe

Thomas, a 6'4", 310-pound guard, is a versatile lineman who can play both guard and tackle. His athleticism and ability to move laterally make him a valuable asset in both the run and pass game. Thomas earned All-Colonial Athletic Association honors in 2022.

These 10 interior offensive linemen are poised to make a significant impact on their respective teams in 2024. Their size, strength, and technique will be crucial to the success of their offenses, and they have the potential to