Sports a broad-shouldered, square-ish frame with his weight spread throughout, including over a powerful lower body complete with thick legs, wide hips and a big bubble, all of which helps him generate impressive torque when he keeps his pads low. Very good overall athleticism for a center, showing the initial quickness to quickly climb to the second level, as well as the awareness to anticipate where defenders are headed and beat them to the spot. Looks comfortable in pass protection at tackle and center, alike, showing the lateral agility and balance to shuffle left and right to mirror opponents. Showed good snap to step quickness when asked to play center in 2016 with no errant shotgun snaps viewed. Alert in pass protection, looking for work. Plays with a brawler's mentality which will endear him to offensive line coaches, seeming to revel in the act of providing an initial punch and working hard to knock his opponent off-balance. Is not satisfied with simply blocking his opponent, Cole wants to bury them into the turf, lifting and landing on top of them when he senses his rival off-balance. Remarkably durable, starting all 51 games of his career at Michigan (tying a school record) and showing his competitive spirit by accepting an invitation to play in the Senior Bowl, as well. -- Rob Rang 1/11/2018
Scouts can check a lot of boxes with Cole, whose square frame, nasty playing temperament, and ability to play multiple positions should land him a Day Two selection. Given his lack of ideal length and at least initial issues with leverage during his one season at center, don't be surprised if he ultimately is asked to move yet again in the NFL - this time to guard. Regardless of his final landing spot, Cole looks like a safe bet to be among his club's five best linemen and continuing his streak of starts well into what should be a long NFL career.