PFF Ranks Saints Center Erik McCoy Top-5 in the NFL

The 2x Pro Bowler has been one of the best at his position.

New Orleans Saints center Erik McCoy is finally getting recognition.

PFF released their top-10 rankings for centers in the NFL, ranking Erik McCoy as the fourth best. 

Ranking the Top 10 centers in the league 🛡️ pic.twitter.com/uNTNy8o3fR

— PFF (@PFF) June 7, 2025

McCoy's importance to the Saints' offensive line was displayed during the 2024 season after suffering an injury during the opening drive of their Week 3 matchup with the Philadelphia Eagles. 

The offensive line in New Orleans allowed just 2 sacks through their first two weeks leading to their 2-0 start. Once their Pro Bowl center left against early in their Week 3 matchup, the Eagles were able to exploit McCoy's absence leading to 4 sacks on the day for Philadelphia. 

McCoy would spend the rest of the 2024 season alternating from the injured reserve and back to playing before being ruled out for the rest of the season due to an elbow injury he suffered against the Green Bay Packers. 

The former second-round pick has been named to two Pro Bowls in his six-year career and earned a five-year, $63.75 million extension with the Saints in 2022. 

New Orleans has focused on building on their offensive line and used their two recent first-round picks on tackles Taliese Fuaga and Kelvin Banks Jr. With head coach Kellen Moore bringing a run-heavy offense, it will be vital for the Saints offensive line to be at their best to fit their new scheme. 

Another notable name among PFF's list is Buffalo Bills center Connor McGovern. McGovern was claimed by the Saints off the New York Jets practice squad after McCoy's injury and started in five games for the team in 2024. The eight-year veteran performed well for the Saints but was waived after McCoy returned from injury.