After several dominant years, Raiders starting center Rodney Hudson has finally been recognized as one of the two best centers in the NFL by the Associated Press. Hudson received nine votes for being the best center in the NFL, which was good enough to land him on the All-Pro second-team. Philadelphia Eagles center Jason Kelce is still the gold standard at center and received 29 votes, which landed him on the first-team.
Hudson has become well regarded as the best pass-blocking center in the NFL over the last few years. According to Pro Football Focus, Hudson didn’t allow a single sack on the year and only allowed three quarterback pressures. He’s only allowed 54 pressures over the entirety of his nine-year NFL career. These facts were good enough to earn the starting center spot on the AFC Pro Bowl roster.
Hudson was also rewarded with a huge contract extension just before the season started. He battled injuries throughout the year and further proved his toughness by continuing to dominate. There’s no doubt he’s the top center in the AFC and it could be argued he’s the best center in the NFL.