:format(webp)/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/55271319/usa_today_9640025.0.jpg)
As we get into the 70s of the countdown we switch positions from TEs and receivers to the offensive line. It is no secret the offensive line is an area of major concern. Some recent pickups and players returning from injury, like today’s player, are hoping to solve that.
Matt McCann – So.
Fishers, IN (Chatard HS)
6’6”, 324 pounds
Offensive Line
2017 Projection: Starter at offensive guard
McCann is a solid offensive lineman from state power Chatard HS in Indianapolis. While at Chatard he helped them win their 12th state championship in 2012. Chatard holds a record 13 state championships in football, and because of that 2012 title when he was a sophomore they were forced to play up in Class 4A for a couple years.
McCann came to Purdue in 2015 as one of our higher rated offensive linemen. The 2015 recruiting class featured three other linemen, but McCann got to the field first. He spent much of last season starting at right tackle. He had an ankle injury that limited him last season and eventually required that he miss spring practice. Once healthy, however, he is expected to be a starter.
Where he starts remains to be seen. McCann is more of a guard than a tackle. He played at tackle last season mostly out of desperation, especially when he had to return to the Maryland game while banged up. Calling Purdue’s situation at tackle last season “bad” is an understatement. It was a disaster. If Grant Hermanns and Dave Steinmetz can come in and play the tackle spots look for McCann to shift inside to guard, where he could be dominant.