[Buckskin86]

Center rankings: Some of the smartest players on the field
Posted: May 11, 2009

As RealScouts, a group of former NFL scouts, take a look at the top centers, it's important to note that these guys are among the smartest players on the field. Not only must they make their own adjustments, they must read the defensive front and make the line calls out to teammates, hear the quarterback's audible, re-adjust the line calls, snap the ball and then get his man blocked -- all in a matter of a few seconds.

NFL centers come in all shapes and sizes, and our top-10 ranking is representative of that.


1. Nick Mangold, Jets. The Jets' offensive line had its best season in a long while, and it starts with Mangold. He doesn't overwhelm with physical tools and there isn't one aspect of his game that stands out, but he does everything well. He has started every game of his NFL career, showing excellent football intelligence, competitiveness and instincts. As his strength and technique continue to improve, he will get even better.

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