Connor McGovern could give the Jets their first high-quality play at center since Nick Mangold called it quits.
Jets fans can rarely be described as “spoiled,” but there is one position on the field where they were certainly a lucky bunch for a long time. After enjoying 125 starts of Hall-of-Fame play from Kevin Mawae (1998-2005), the Jets pivoted straight to Nick Mangold following Mawae’s final season in green. Mawae’s 2005 season ended after just six games due to a triceps injury, and Pete Kendall finished the season. Mangold was taken with the 29th overall pick in the first round of the ensuing draft and would hold the position down over 171 starts from 2006-2016. That’s 19 consecutive seasons of elite-caliber play at center.
Since the Jets’ golden-bearded mammoth hung up his helmet, the football gods have been working hard to balance things out. The center position has been an absolute nightmare in New York over the past three seasons.
Every position on the Jets OL needs a major upgrade, but in particular I hope this is the year they finally prioritize center. Been a rough 3 years pic.twitter.com/MAkOyeO9uY
— Michael Nania (@Michael_Nania) February 1, 2020
Finally, it seems the Jets have found the man who will put an end to this absurd incompetency: Connor McGovern.
Let’s dive into the advanced numbers that showcase how McGovern will provide an infusion of juice to the Jets’ stagnant offensive line.