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Drew Dalman

Drew Dalman Player Profile

Summary

Drew Dalman is an NFL center who was drafted by the Atlanta Falcons in the 4th round (114th overall) of the 2021 NFL Draft after a standout career at Stanford Cardinal. NFL.com
He has since developed into a starting‐caliber interior lineman, combining technical proficiency, intelligence, and quick feet. As of his move to the Chicago Bears in 2025, he brings both experience and leadership to the center position. Chicago Bears

Strengths

  • Athleticism & Footwork: Dalman has above-average movement for a center — good lateral mobility and a solid base in zone-scheme contexts. The Falcoholic

  • Football IQ & Technique: He shows an advanced understanding of leverage, angles, and recognizing stunts/twists. As one scout put it: “clear understanding of leverage and plays with great pad level.” The Falcoholic

  • Finishing & Hand Placement: He’s effective when he gets his hands on defenders, keeping his feet moving and sustaining blocks in many situations. Bleacher Report

  • Run-blocking in zone schemes: Particularly in collegiate play, he stood out for his ability to get to the second level, show mobility, and wall off defenders effectively. Bleacher Report

  • Character and Work Ethic: Multiple reports mention his toughness, good character, and leadership (he was captain at Stanford). The Falcoholic

Weaknesses

  • Size, Strength & Anchor: At ~299–301 lbs in college and early pro years, with a 6’3″ frame, Dalman is considered somewhat undersized for elite interior defensive linemen. He can struggle when he bends at the waist rather than the knees, and when he gets driven back. NFL Draft Buzz

  • Consistency & Finishing Blocks: While he shows flashes, scouts cite that he isn’t always consistent in finishing blocks or finishing through contact — particularly larger defenders occasionally gain control. The Falcoholic

  • Pass-protection Versatility with Elite Rushers: Some concern exists that his quickness is good but not elite when matched up one-on-one with top-tier interior pass rushers; some evaluators flagged that he is “adequate length” and that bigger defenders can get into his chest. Bleacher Report

  • Range and Adaptability Outside Core Role: While strong in his base role, his ability to consistently move to second level or excel in space/finesse situations is less well-proven. NFL Draft Buzz

Fit & Outlook

Dalman is trending toward being a reliable starting center in the NFL, especially if he continues to refine strength, maintain technical discipline, and leverage his mental aptitude. Given his weaknesses are more about physical ceiling rather than technique or intelligence, his floor is reasonably high — a solid starter rather than a bust risk.

With his move to Chicago in 2025, the opportunity is there to solidify himself as a long-term piece. If he can handle stronger interior rushers, avoid major injury setbacks, and maintain consistency, he could carve out a multi-year tenure as a dependable center. On the flip side, if he fails to improve his anchor strength or get more dominant than merely “good,” he may remain more of an average starter rather than ascend to Pro Bowl level.