In the fast-paced world of the NFL, centers often go unnoticed. Yet, their role as the “quarterback of the offensive line” is crucial for the success of the team. With the retirement of former Philadelphia Eagles center Jason Kelce, the title of the NFL’s top center is now up for grabs.
“Centers are the unsung heroes of the NFL,” said one NFL analyst. “They may not get the glory, but their importance cannot be understated.”
Three top candidates have emerged to replace Kelce as the league’s top center: Detroit’s Frank Ragnow, Baltimore’s Tyler Linderbaum, and Atlanta’s Drew Dalman. Each brings a unique skill set to the table, making the competition fierce.
Ragnow, despite dealing with turf toe last season, had a career-high grade of 88.1 according to PFF.com. Known for his exceptional run-blocking abilities, Ragnow was instrumental in the Lions’ success last season, helping them to back-to-back playoff wins for the first time in franchise history.
“Frank is a true leader on the field,” said a Lions teammate. “His ability to read defenses and communicate with the rest of the line is unmatched.”
With Ragnow anchoring the offensive line, the Lions were able to put up impressive numbers last season, ranking third in yards per game and fifth in points per game. His pass-blocking skills were also top-notch, as he allowed just one sack in over 1,700 pass-blocking attempts.
Concerns about Ragnow’s health have been raised, as he has missed at least one game in each of the past five seasons. However, if he can stay healthy and lead the Lions to another playoff run, he may well solidify his place as the league’s top center.
As training camp approaches, all eyes will be on Ragnow and the other top contenders vying for the coveted title of the NFL’s top center. The competition promises to be fierce, with each player looking to make their mark on the league and fill the void left by Kelce’s retirement.
