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ESPN conducted a comprehensive poll involving executives, players, and coaches to determine the best Guards/Centers in the NFL.
The survey, part of ESPN’s 2023 NFL season preview, was carried out by Jeremy Fowler and involved league executives, coaches, scouts, and players who contributed to ranking the top 10 players at each of the 11 different positions, spanning from quarterback to cornerback and all positions in between.
Rankings For: Off-the-ball Linebackers, Defensive Tackles, Edge Rushers, Cornerbacks, Safeties, Tight Ends, Running Backs, Offensive Tackles, Guards/Centers, Quarterbacks, Wide Receivers
A sturdy interior is essential to providing the quarterback with a clean pocket, allowing them to survey the field and make accurate throws. Furthermore, these linemen are responsible for opening holes for running backs, a crucial aspect of a successful ground game.
With their impact extending to both passing and rushing plays, the importance of Guards and Centers cannot be overstated.
Top 10 List:
- Zack Martin – Dallas Cowboys
- Joe Thuney – Kansas City Chiefs
- Quenton Nelson – Indianapolis Colts
- Elgton Jenkins – Green Bay Packers
- Joel Bitonio – Cleveland Browns
- Jason Kelce – Philadelphia Eagles
- Chris Lindstrom – Atlanta Falcons
- Creed Humphrey – Kansas City Chiefs
- Brandon Scherff – Jacksonville Jaguars
- Frank Ragnow – Detroit Lions
Honorable Mention:
- Erik McCoy – New Orleans Saints
- Trey Smith – Kansas City Chiefs
- Landon Dickerson – Philadelphia Eagles
- Corey Linsley – Los Angeles Chargers
- Wyatt Teller – Cleveland Browns
- Mike Onwenu – New England Patriots
Additional Votes:
- Alijah Vera-Tucker – New York Jets
- Laken Tomlinson – New York Jets
- Ryan Jensen – Tampa Bay Buccaneers
- Ryan Kelly – Indianapolis Colts
- Quinn Meinerz – Denver Broncos
As ESPN’s poll concluded, fans now have a comprehensive overview of the top Guards and Centers in the NFL, as well as some emerging talents and honorable mentions to keep an eye on as the 2023 NFL season approaches.