Another offseason, another new center for the Jets.
Gang Green has to hope it got the position right this time after agreeing to a three-year deal with Connor McGovern. The former Bronco’s pact is worth $27 million and $18 million is fully guaranteed, according to NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero.
Just 26, McGovern is coming off a career year in Denver. The 2016 fifth-round pick allowed just one sack and three QB hits in 2019 while playing 609 pass-blocking snaps and 100 percent of the Broncos’ offensive snaps. Durability has been a theme during McGovern’s three-year career, as he has missed all but one game and has started in 31 of his last 32 contests.
He’s also among the game’s most disciplined players; McGovern was the only qualified center who didn’t register a penalty in 2019.
A better pass-blocker than run-blocker, McGovern should fit in well with Adam Gase’s throw-heavy offense. The Missouri native is set to be New York’s latest addition to the offensive line, as the Jets already agreed to terms with George Fant and re-signed Alex Lewis. As of now, Fant is the left tackle, Lewis is the left guard, McGovern is the center, Brian Winters is the right guard and Chuma Edoga is the right tackle.
While the Jets may have a body for every trench position, count on them adding more offensive linemen through free agency and the draft. McGovern, however, looks locked into center.
After some down years from Spencer Long and Ryan Kalil, New York is hoping the position will once again be a strength like it was during the Kevin Mawae and Nick Mangold years.