Erik McCoy, center for the New Orleans Saints, is now earning his place in the limelight. According to Pro Football Focus (PFF), McCoy took the fourth spot on their list of the top-10 centers in the NFL. His value within the Saints’ offensive line was significantly demonstrated during the 2024 season.
During the Saints’ third-week contest against the Philadelphia Eagles, McCoy was unfortunately injured on the opening drive. This significantly altered the complexion of the game, as his injury exposed a critical weakness in the Saints’ offensive line. Prior to this setback, the New Orleans Saints’ offensive line had an impressive record, allowing only two sacks in their first pair of games, contributing to their 2-0 start.
However, the tide of the game against the Eagles changed when McCoy had to leave the field early. The Eagles intelligently exploited McCoy’s untimely absence, which resulted in four sacks for Philadelphia that day. This highlighted the importance of McCoy’s presence in the heart of the Saints’ offensive line.
For the remainder of the 2024 season, McCoy had a challenging journey, bouncing between playing on the field and enduring time on the injury reserve. Eventually, it was a severe elbow injury, sustained in a game against the Green Bay Packers, that ruled him out for the rest of that season.
McCoy is a former second-round pick, boasting quite a decorated track record, having earned two Pro Bowl nominations in his six-year career. His impressive skills and dedication were recognized by the Saints in 2022, made manifest with a five-year contract extension worth $63.75 million.
The New Orleans Saints have been strategically investing in their offensive line, using their two most recent first-round draft picks to secure tackle talents Taliese Fuaga and Kelvin Banks Jr. These additions bolster the strength and depth of the Saints’ line, underpinning their commitment to a robust offensive strategy.
Under the leadership of Head Coach Kellen Moore, who favors a run-heavy offense, the top-notch performance of the Saints’ offensive line is paramount. McCoy’s central role, as evidenced by his leadership and on-field performances, emphasizes the need for the line to be in their prime to accommodate Moore’s strategic direction.
Another notable mention in the PFF’s top centers ranking is Connor McGovern, center for the Buffalo Bills. Interestingly, McGovern was once a part of the Saints’ squad, having been picked up from the New York Jets practice squad following McCoy’s injury.
McGovern stepped up and started in five games for the Saints during the 2024 season, showcasing an admirable performance. However, his tenure with the Saints was short-lived. Upon McCoy’s return from injury, McGovern was subsequently released.