Top 5 greatest NFL centers of all time

Centers are often referred to as the "quarterbacks of the offensive line" due to their critical role in making line calls and leading the protection for their team's quarterback and running backs. These players need to be strong, smart and technically sound to excel in their positions.

Here are the top five centers in NFL history

#1, Jim Otto

Jim Otto of the RaidersChuck BednarikDwight StephensonMike WebsterDermontti Dawson

Jim Otto played for the Oakland Raiders from 1960 to 1974. He is widely considered one of the best centers of all time, known for his strength, durability and consistency. He was a 12-time Pro Bowler and a 10-time first-team All-Pro and was named to the NFL's 1960s All-Decade Team. He was a key contributor to the Raiders' playoff appearances in 1967, 1968, 1969 and 1973.

#2, Chuck Bednarik

Chuck Bednarik played for the Philadelphia Eagles from 1949 to 1962. He is known for his strength, toughness and versatility. He was an eight-time Pro Bowler and a five-time first-team All-Pro and was named to the NFL's 1950s All-Decade Team. He was a key contributor to the Eagles' NFL championship in 1960.

#3, Dwight Stephenson

Dwight Stephenson played for the Miami Dolphins from 1980-1987. He is known for his strength, intelligence and technical proficiency. He was a five-time Pro Bowler and a four-time first-team All-Pro and was named to the NFL's 1980s All-Decade Team. He was a key contributor to the Dolphins' Super Bowl appearances in 1983 and 1985.

#4, Mike Webster

Mike Webster played for the Pittsburgh Steelers, Kansas City Chiefs and Minnesota Vikings from 1974 to 1990. He is known for his strength, intelligence and leadership. He was a nine-time Pro Bowler and a four-time first-team All-Pro. He was a key contributor to the Steelers' Super Bowl wins in 1974, 1975, 1978 and 1979.

#5, Dermontti Dawson

Dermontti Dawson played for the Pittsburgh Steelers from 1988-2000. He is known for his strength, intelligence and consistency. He was a seven-time Pro Bowler, a six-time first-team All-Pro and was named to the NFL's 1990s All-Decade Team. He was a key contributor to the Steelers' playoff appearances in 1989, 1990, 1992, 1993, 1994, 1995 and 1997.