Is Joe Tippmann Better At Center Or Guard For The New York Jets?

David

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Post on Aug 14, 2025

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Is Joe Tippmann Better at Center or Guard for the New York Jets? A Crucial Question for Gang Green

The New York Jets' offseason acquisition of Joe Tippmann, a highly touted offensive lineman from Wisconsin, has generated considerable excitement among fans. But a key question remains: where will he best serve the team – at center or guard? This decision will significantly impact the Jets' offensive line and, consequently, their entire season. Let's delve into Tippmann's strengths and weaknesses to determine his optimal position.

Tippmann's College Career: A Mixed Bag

Tippmann's college career showcased his versatility. He played both center and guard for the Wisconsin Badgers, demonstrating adaptability and a solid understanding of offensive line techniques. However, his performance varied depending on his position. At center, his impressive size (6'6", 313 lbs) and strength allowed him to dominate at the point of attack. He excelled at run blocking, consistently creating significant holes for the Badgers' running backs. However, his pass protection, while competent, wasn't as consistently dominant as his run blocking.

At guard, Tippmann’s power translated well, allowing him to consistently push defenders backward. However, some analysts noted his footwork could be improved in pass protection scenarios at this position as well. While his athleticism is undeniable, his agility in pass protection might be slightly better suited to the center position.

The Jets' Offensive Line Needs:

The Jets' offensive line is currently a work in progress. They need a reliable center to solidify the middle, protecting quarterback Aaron Rodgers and opening lanes for running back Breece Hall. Their guard positions also require strong players, capable of both run and pass blocking. This creates a complex situation for coach Robert Saleh and his coaching staff.

Analyzing the Competition:

The current state of the Jets' offensive line further complicates the decision. The team has other players vying for starting roles, adding to the competition for both center and guard spots. Determining Tippmann's optimal position requires considering the overall team dynamic and the strengths of other linemen. A thorough evaluation throughout training camp and preseason games will be crucial for the coaching staff.

The Verdict: A Lean Towards Center?

While Tippmann's versatility is a valuable asset, his potential to excel at center seems slightly higher. His size and strength are particularly well-suited to the demands of the center position, especially in run blocking. His pass protection skills, while not perfect, can likely be further honed with more experience and coaching. Positioning him at center allows the Jets to maximize his strengths and mitigate any weaknesses.

However, the final decision hinges on training camp performance and the coaching staff's assessment. Ultimately, the Jets' success will depend on having a cohesive and high-performing offensive line, regardless of Tippmann's specific position.

Looking Ahead: Preseason is Key

The upcoming preseason games will be crucial in determining Tippmann's final position. Close observation of his performance in both pass protection and run blocking scenarios, at both center and guard, will give the coaching staff the data needed to make an informed decision. Keep an eye on the Jets’ preseason schedule for a clearer picture. This is a key storyline for the team as they prepare for the 2023 NFL season.

Call to Action: What do you think? Where should the Jets place Joe Tippmann? Share your prediction in the comments below!