Erik McCoy, despite playing only nine games, showcased his elite skills as the NFL's highest-graded center, leading in run-blocking with a 94.5 PFF grade. Creed Humphrey of the Kansas City Chiefs has also been stellar, consistently ranking among the top centers since entering the league in 2021. Fellow centers Frank Ragnow and Tyler Linderbaum also delivered impressive performances, with Ragnow excelling in run-blocking for the Detroit Lions and Linderbaum maintaining a clean sack record since his rookie season.

Drew Dalman of the Atlanta Falcons, entering free agency after a solid year in pass protection, made strides in his performance following an injury. Newcomer Zach Frazier from the Pittsburgh Steelers and Arizona's Hjalte Froholdt have both made significant impacts in their respective teams. The rising star Joe Tippmann of the New York Jets is also turning heads with his improvements.

The Kansas City Chiefs are taking decisive steps to secure the future of their offensive line by planning to franchise tag right guard Trey Smith, a move that signals their commitment to both immediate stability and long-term negotiations. Smith, who earned his first Pro Bowl selection in 2024, showcased outstanding performance by leading the league in pass-blocking snaps without allowing a sack.

This franchise tag will lock Smith into a one-year deal worth $23.4 million, fully guaranteed, allowing the Chiefs to focus on fortifying their offensive line. General manager Brett Veach has already invested significantly in the line, making All-Pro center Creed Humphrey the highest-paid player at his position and signing right tackle Jawaan Taylor to a lucrative contract. As such, ensuring Smith’s continued presence is pivotal for quarterback Patrick Mahomes, who faced a career-high in sacks last season.

While the interior line now has Smith, Humphrey, and Joe Thuney secured, the Chiefs still need to address the tackle positions to improve Mahomes' protection. The decision to tag Smith could also influence other roster decisions, particularly regarding Jawaan Taylor, who has been the most penalized player in the league. The Chiefs face a tough offseason ahead, but these strategic moves look to provide a solid foundation for continued success.

Jordan Davis, the Philadelphia Eagles' nose tackle, is evolving under the guidance of defensive line coach Clint Hurtt. Previously known primarily for occupying blockers, Davis is now developing his skills to become a more versatile player, showcasing both improved lateral movement and pass-rushing abilities. His growth is evident as he heads into his second Super Bowl, contrasting sharply with the limited role he had in his rookie season.

Creed Humphrey, the center for the Kansas City Chiefs, acknowledges Davis's unique size and athleticism, highlighting the challenges he presents on the field. Despite being a first-round pick, the Eagles are still weighing the decision to exercise Davis's fifth-year option, projected to be over $11 million. Hurtt’s coaching emphasizes that Davis is far from a finished product and believes he has the potential to become an every-down player.

The Kansas City Chiefs have established their interior offensive line as the backbone of their offense, showcasing remarkable resilience and talent. After a disappointing performance in Super Bowl LV, the team invested heavily in revamping the line by acquiring All-Pro guard Joe Thuney, along with center Creed Humphrey and guard Trey Smith through the draft. Their chemistry and skill have allowed quarterback Patrick Mahomes to excel despite facing pressure on 33.7% of his dropbacks, indicative of a unit that has effectively protected him over the past three years.

This season, however, challenges arose as the Chiefs struggled with their left tackle situation, leading to Thuney shifting positions. Remarkably, both Thuney and new guard Mike Caliendo have stepped up their game. Their collaboration has kept the running game effective, especially in the middle, maintaining solid rushing averages while relying on late-round running backs. As they prepare to face the formidable Philadelphia Eagles' defensive line, the stakes are high for this cohesive group to rise to the occasion and continue their impressive performance.

Lamar Jackson, Josh Allen, and Jayden Daniels will miss the Pro Bowl Games this week as the NFL revealed the final rosters Tuesday. New England Patriots rookie Drake Maye takes Jackson's place, while Russell Wilson of Pittsburgh fills in for Allen, and Baker Mayfield from Tampa Bay replaces Daniels.

Both Allen and Daniels faced defeats in their respective conference championship games, while Jackson's journey ended in the divisional round. Despite their absence, Allen and Jackson remain MVP candidates.

In other roster changes, Buffalo Bills' James Cook and Connor McGovern were also selected as replacements. Cook replaces Derrick Henry, who led the league in rushing yards, while McGovern steps in for Kansas City's Creed Humphrey. The Pro Bowl Games will take place Thursday through Sunday in Orlando, featuring skills competitions and a flag football game.