Summary

Connor McGovern was drafted in the 2019 NFL Draft, Round 3, (pick 90) out of Penn State. McGovern is a modern interior offensive lineman who brings a mix of positional flexibility, reliable pass-protection, and strong awareness — especially valuable in an offense that prioritizes quarterback protection and continuity up front. His move to center with Buffalo appears to be both a natural fit and one that has paid immediate dividends (via low sack numbers).

While he may not be the flashiest “run-block monster” or the longest-armed guard/tackle, his strengths lie in execution, adaptability, and being dependable week-in, week-out. For teams that emphasize passing efficiency and require their center to be a communication hub, McGovern stands out.

Strengths

• Versatility & positional flexibility
  McGovern has experience at both guard and center; in fact, his move back to center for the Bills in the 2024 season was highlighted as a strong fit. SI

• Strong in pass protection and low sack counts
  While playing left guard for Buffalo in 2023, he was part of a line that allowed very few sacks; in 2024 at center the Bills had the fewest sacks allowed in the league (14).

• Footwork and movement for an interior lineman
  Reports note that McGovern “moves well,” has good change of direction for the interior, and showed quick first step in guard/center spots. Gang Green Nation

• Intelligence, awareness, communication
  The center spot demands making calls, identifying protections, and coordinating with the quarterback and line — McGovern has been noted embracing that. SI

Weaknesses

• Length & ideal size for some guard/tackle roles
  Earlier scouting noted that while strong, McGovern’s length (arm reach) was modest for tackle and perhaps even guard in some schemes—limiting his ideal projection. Bleacher Report

• Run-game leverage and power consistency
  Some reports flagged that in the run game he sometimes “doesn’t unfurl his hips,” which means the drive or displacement of defenders can be inconsistent. cover1.net

• Exposure to counters/angle rushes and processing in complex fronts
  Particularly at his guard/center spots, McGovern has been described as “works better in a phone-booth” than in space or when facing athletic or slanting rushers. cover1.net

Fit & Outlook

With the Bills committing to McGovern at center and acknowledging his comfort in that role, the outlook is optimistic: he should continue as a key piece of Buffalo’s offensive line for the near future. The key will be maintaining consistency in the run game and continuing his high level of pass-protection performance.

If he keeps performing at this level, his role may not raise dramatic headlines, but he will likely earn recognition as among the better interior linemen in the league — especially given the value of low sack totals and continuity. On the flip side, if he struggles with run-game power or is challenged frequently by athletic interior rushers, those older “weakness” notes could start to matter more.