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Broncos' Unsung O-Line Hero Ranks Top 10
20 Aug
Summary
- Luke Wattenberg, a 2022 fifth-round pick, is the Broncos' starting center.
- He signed a four-year contract extension last November.
- PFF ranked Wattenberg as the 10th best center in the league.
Luke Wattenberg has solidified his role as the Denver Broncos' starting center, an often-overlooked position critical to the team's offensive success. Selected in the fifth round of the 2022 NFL Draft, Wattenberg has developed from a fringe roster candidate into a cornerstone of the offensive line.
His contributions were recognized last November with a four-year contract extension, signaling the team's long-term commitment. This decision became even more crucial after Lloyd Cushenberry departed in free agency following the 2023 season, with the Broncos aiming to secure continuity at center.
Mason Cameron of Pro Football Focus recently lauded Wattenberg, ranking him as the NFL's 10th best center. Cameron noted Wattenberg's dual-threat capabilities, citing his strong performance in both pass protection and run blocking during the 2025 season, where he achieved a 70.0-plus grade in both categories—a feat accomplished by only four other players.
