The NFL’s 11 best centers

Centers are the underrated captains of any NFL offense. Here are the 11 best in the game today.

1. Rodney Hudson, Las Vegas Raiders

(Ron Chenoy-USA TODAY Sports)

The Raiders have the NFL’s most expensive offensive line, with more than $58 million in contract value in 2020 alone — the Packers rank second at just under $50 million, so it’s pretty clear where Jon Gruden and Mike Mayock want their money spent. One deal that had to be made in 2019 to keep that line together was the three-year, $33.75 million extension given to Hudson in August, 2019. Hudson has been among the best at his position for a number of years, going back to his time with the Chiefs from 2011 through 2014, but he’s just added to his power, leverage, and agility as the years have gone on. Any linebacker on a blitz would be able to tell you how effective Hudson is as a brick-wall blocker; this rep from Jaguars linebacker Donald Payne is but one example.

In 597 pass-blocking snaps last season, Hudson allowed a paltry three total pressures — no sacks, one quarterback hit, and two quarterback hurries. 2019 marked the second straight season, and the third in the last four seasons, in which Hudson refused to give up a single quarterback takedown. When it comes to consistency at the top level at the center position, Hudson outpaces all the rest.

Hudson also insists on excelling off the field.

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