NFL's low-key MVPs: 4 players in the middle of the field who add tons of hidden value like Frank Ragnow

The center in football is naturally at the point of attack, and that is true in a philosophical sense.

The center has been growing in impact recently because of the increasingly complex mental checklist they have to go through on a snap-to-snap basis.

Pittsburgh Steelers' Zach Frazier was a plus-starter at the pivot spot as soon as he stepped on the field as a rookie.

With Al-Shaair on the field, the Texans ' explosive run rate dropped to 8.5% , which is still middling and would rank 16th .

The Texans had an outstanding unit last season that was led by their speedy pass rush and tight man coverage.

The Chargers ' DT Teair Tart has been a mauler in the middle for a few seasons now, but since his reported disagreements with management in Tennessee led to his release in December 2023 .

Deommodore Lenoir has turned into one of the best defenders in the NFL at the critical slot defender position.

Garrett Williams also deserves some love as a key player on the Cardinals ' psychedelic defense.

The 49ers have been trying to add more beef to their front seven this offseason.