Big Shoes Still Needing to be Filled, 4 Years Later.
There is a saying that goes, “You don’t know what you’ve got till it’s gone,” but in the case of Travis Frederick, the Cowboys knew exactly what they had – a reliable, dominant force at the center position. Throughout his career, Frederick anchored the offensive line with precision, earning the respect of teammates, opponents, and fans alike. His leadership on and off the field was invaluable, making his absence all the more glaring in the Cowboys’ lineup.
Travis Fredrick retired from professional football in March 2020 due to health concerns related to Guillain-Barré syndrome, a rare autoimmune disorder. Frederick was diagnosed with the condition in 2018, which caused him to miss the entire 2018 NFL season. Despite making a remarkable comeback in 2019 and earning a fifth Pro Bowl selection, Frederick ultimately decided to retire from the game to prioritize his long-term health and well-being.
Guillain-Barré syndrome is a disorder where the body’s immune system attacks its nerves, leading to muscle weakness and, in severe cases, paralysis. While Frederick’s condition improved over time, the toll it took on his body and his desire to avoid further health risks led to his decision to retire from football at the age of 29.
Frederick’s retirement marked the end of a highly successful NFL career that saw him become one of the league’s premier centers. His decision to prioritize his health serves as a reminder of the physical demands and risks associated with professional football, and it underscores the importance of players’ well-being beyond their on-field performance.
Without a strong presence at center, the Cowboys’ offensive line has struggled to maintain its dominance. While stars like Zack Martin, Tyler. Smith, and Terence Steele continue to excel in their respective positions, the lack of consistency in the middle has been evident.
Dallas Can Potentially Address the Center Position in Upcoming NFL Draft
Here are some of this years best prospests at the center position.
- Sedrick Van Pran from Georgia is a four-star prospect and currently leads the pack. His pass-blocking skills are impressive, having allowed just one sack on 1878 snaps. While his pass blocking is elite, he could work on improving his run blocking. Keep an eye on him as he heads to the NFL1.
- Jackson Powers-Johnson from Oregon is another top interior offensive line prospect. He boasts a solid mix of athleticism, power, and technique. His hand placement and footwork are exceptional, making him a strong contender for the center position1.
- Zach Frazier, hailing from West Virginia, has developed into a draft-worthy NFL prospect. His journey from being a decorated high school wrestler to a cornerstone of West Virginia’s offensive line is remarkable. Frazier’s strength and skills make him a contender in this year’s draft. To read more of our articles and keep up to date on the latest in college and NFL news, click here! If there is a topic you’d like me to cover or a question you’d like to ask, feel free to contact @ following email CarlHarper.GridironHeroics@gmail.com