2007 NFL Draft: Ben Grubbs' Versatility Key To Success

By Jeremy White, NFLHS.com

When Ben Grubbs left high school, his plans were to play linebacker or maybe even fullback at Auburn. Things don't always go according to plan, though.

He soon found out if he were going to get on the field, it was only going to come after a weight gain and a lot of hard work to learn how to play on the offensive line. It was quite a transition, but it paid off: Grubbs is now eyeing a career in the National Football League.

"Coming out of high school, I was a linebacker," he says. "So I definitely needed to get bigger and stronger and take on a different mentality to play offensive line."

Grubbs admits he's "still learning new things every day. I'm a three-year starter as an offensive guard, so I still don't have too much experience playing on the line."

What he does have is versatility.

"I learned in high school to play several positions, including tight end," he says. "I even caught the ball a few times."

Football wasn't the only sport Grubbs played at Elmore County High School in Eclectic, Ala. He took to the hardwood as well, and recommends high school football players make it a point to take part in multiple sports.

"It all relates," he explains. "I played center on the basketball team in high school. In that position you have to stay low and move your feet and position yourself between the defender and the basketball goal. The same applies in football, so playing basketball and other sports really helps you out."

Grubbs has plenty of tips for varsity football players, starting with the self respect it takes to be a winner.

"Go out there and play with confidence and the mentality that you can affect the game, that the other team can't control your play," he advises. "Be a leader both on and off the field."

How can an offensive lineman do that?

"Use your experience to help the younger guys out," says Grubbs. "Take it upon yourself to pick them up when they're down and help them out. That's how to be a leader on the line and help your team out."

Grubbs adds that playbook study isn't just for quarterbacks and receivers. Linemen have myriad duties depending on the nature of the play as well. You can't afford to be caught off-guard.

"Take it upon yourself to get into the playbook and know it inside and out," he says. "You need to be willing to put in the work in the weight room and the film room and not just on the field."

Parting thoughts, Ben?

Of course.

"Learn a little about the moves of the defense so you know what to expect when you get in a game," Grubbs says. "And play with a defensive mentality. Be aggressive and not passive."

Class dismissed.

Story courtesy Red Line Editorial, Inc.