Although a smaller lineman can be recruited to play college football, physical size and strength is a very important consideration for college coaches. College programs expect incoming linemen to become bigger once they join the team by enrolling in weight training programs, but they generally want most of their recruits to start at a specific initial size. Many high school seniors that will play offensive linemen at the college level will be between 280 and 300 pounds and be able to bench press at least 300 pounds.
College coaches not only want players with noticeable physical ability, but also disciplined players that will flourish in their programs. Recruiters will be attracted to players who do well in school and can display intelligence and self-control off the field, because they are more likely to take instruction well and learn what the position requires at a higher level. They don't want to bring in players that have a record of disobedience or poor grades.
The position of offensive lineman requires quick hands in order to be able to pass block effectively. Using the hands appropriately allows a player to use his leverage more efficiently. It is more difficult to push the defensive lineman around and create a run block when the hands are tied up.
The success of an offensive lineman is dependent on how well he can master the blocking technique. This involves using his weight as leverage to not only be immovable to an opposing lineman, but to push the defensive lineman in the direction he wants. Recruiters will recognize good blocking technique and choose to offer a high school senior a place in the college program if they believe they see something they can work with.