2009 Free Agency-Center
Matt Birk (David Sherman/Getty Images)
Matt Birk (David Sherman/Getty Images)
Senior NFL Reporter
Posted Dec 4, 2008


Here's a look at the group of centers that are currently unsigned for next year. Will the Minnesota Vikings re-sign Matt Birk?

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Centers Who Should Get Starter Consideration

Matt Birk/Minnesota Vikings/UFA - The perennial pro-bowler still could start at least two more seasons for any team that needs a center, but the Vikings haven't shown any interest in re-signing him.

Jason Brown/Baltimore Ravens/UFA - Brown is one of the most talented, young centers in the NFL and he'll attract a ton of attention should the Ravens decide not to re-sign him.

Jeff Saturday/Indianapolis Colts/UFA - The usually durable center turns 34 in June, but should have a few good years left. Saturday could start a few more years for a team until a younger lineman is ready to replace him.

Brad Meester/Jacksonville Jaguars/UFA - The solid run-blocking center turns 33 in March. He should have at least two solid years left in him.

Richie Incognito/St. Louis Rams/RFA - The tough and talented interior lineman can play guard or center. His versatility could help him get a decent restricted free agent tender, but injuries have been an issue the last few seasons.

Eric Ghiaciuc/Cincinnati Bengals/UFA - The former fourth-round pick has started 38 games over his four-year career. While injuries have been an issue, Ghiaciuc is a decent interior lineman whose best days are ahead of him.

Melvin Fowler/Buffalo Bills/UFA - He has 60 starts in his seven-year career. Fowler is seen by scouts as an average center, but he should attract some attention in free agency.

Rudy Niswanger/Kansas City Chiefs /RFA - The former undrafted free agent is in his first year as a starter. Niswanger has shown improvement this season so it will be interesting to see at what level he's tendered as a restricted free agent.

Others Who Could Find Interest For Backup Purposes

Jeremy Newberry/Oakland Raiders/UFA - The oft-injured, but talented interior lineman could help a team that is looking for an experienced, solid backup.

Matt Lehr/New Orleans Saints/UFA - Journeyman type that can also play guard.

Brett Romberg/St. Louis Rams/UFA - Decent backup who can play guard or center.



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