Ted Karras, the reliable center for the Cincinnati Bengals, has been making waves in the NFL, not just for his performance on the field, but also for his strong family connections to the game. As the Bengals battle through a challenging 2024 season, Karras’ name has been circulating in news outlets for a variety of reasons, from contract updates to memorable media appearances.
But who exactly is Ted Karras, and how does his lineage tie him to football greatness? Let’s explore his career, family background, and the latest updates surrounding him in 2024.
Key Takeaways
- Ted Karras is currently the center for the Cincinnati Bengals, having played for the New England Patriots and Miami Dolphins previously.
- Ted Karras Jr. and Ted Karras Sr., along with Alex Karras, are key figures in Ted Karras’ football lineage.
- In 2024, Ted Karras signed a $6 million contract extension with the Bengals.
- Karras holds a strong Pro Football Focus (PFF) rating, maintaining solid pass-blocking performance.
- He is related to Alex Karras, a former NFL player and actor, making Ted Karras part of a rich football family history.
Ted Karras – The NFL Center Making an Impact
Ted Karras III, born in 1993, is the third generation of his family to leave a lasting mark on the world of football. A standout offensive lineman, he currently plays for the Cincinnati Bengals as their starting center. After stints with the New England Patriots, where he won two Super Bowls, and a season with the Miami Dolphins, Karras joined the Bengals and quickly became a key player on their offensive line.
Ted Karras Latest News 2024: Challenges and Humor in the NFL Season
In 2024, the Cincinnati Bengals have experienced a rocky start to their season, with Karras recently calling his team the "Would-Be Kings" following a tough loss to the Baltimore Ravens. Despite these challenges, Karras maintains his leadership role, bringing both skill and experience to the field. He even found humor in a recent blunder during an appearance on "The Pat McAfee Show" where the word "Cincinnati" was misspelled, showing that he can keep things lighthearted despite the pressure of a tough season.
Ted Karras’ PFF Rating: Consistency on the Field
Pro Football Focus (PFF), a well-known resource for evaluating NFL players, ranks Ted Karras as one of the better centers in the league. His 2023 PFF grade was 67.4, placing him as the 11th-best center among those who played over 1,000 snaps. His pass-blocking skills shine, with a 2022 grade of 76.1, ranking him fourth at his position. Karras’ solid performance in both run and pass protection has been critical to the Bengals’ offensive strategy.
| Year | PFF Grade | Ranking (Center) | Pass-blocking Grade |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 | 67.4 | 11th | – |
| 2022 | – | – | 76.1 (4th) |
The Karras Family Legacy – A Strong Line of NFL Players
Ted Karras Sr.: A Champion from the Past
The Karras family’s roots in football run deep. Ted Karras Sr., Ted’s grandfather, was a defensive tackle who played for teams like the Chicago Bears, Pittsburgh Steelers, and Detroit Lions. He won an NFL championship with the Bears in 1963, marking the beginning of a proud family tradition in professional football. Sadly, Ted Karras Sr. passed away in 2016, but his legacy lives on through his descendants.
Ted Karras Jr.: A Coach and Former NFL Player
Ted Karras Jr., the father of Ted Karras III, also had his stint in the NFL as a replacement player during the 1987 NFL strike. Though his time as a player was brief, Karras Jr. has since made a name for himself in coaching, currently serving as the head coach at Marian University, where he has led his team to an NAIA Championship.
Is Ted Karras Related to Alex Karras?
Yes, Ted Karras is related to the legendary Alex Karras. Ted Karras Sr. and Alex Karras were brothers, making Alex the great-uncle of Ted Karras III. Alex Karras was not only a successful NFL player but also gained fame as an actor, starring in movies like "Blazing Saddles" and the TV show "Webster."
Ted Karras’ Contract Extension in 2024
In 2024, Ted Karras signed a one-year contract extension with the Bengals worth $6 million. This deal includes a $3 million signing bonus and brings his base salary to $4 million for the season, with a cap hit of $7.1 million. This extension reflects the Bengals’ faith in Karras as a key piece of their offensive line moving forward.
FAQs
Who is Ted Karras?
Ted Karras is an NFL center currently playing for the Cincinnati Bengals. He has also played for the New England Patriots and Miami Dolphins.
What is Ted Karras’ latest news in 2024?
Ted Karras has recently been in the news for discussing the Bengals’ tough start to the 2024 season and for a humorous moment on "The Pat McAfee Show."
How does Ted Karras perform according to PFF?
According to PFF, Ted Karras received a 67.4 grade in 2023, ranking him as the 11th-best center who played over 1,000 snaps. His pass-blocking grade in 2022 was particularly impressive, at 76.1.
What is Ted Karras’ contract for 2024?
In 2024, Ted Karras signed a one-year contract extension with the Bengals worth $6 million, including a $3 million signing bonus.
How is Ted Karras related to Alex Karras?
Ted Karras is the great-nephew of Alex Karras, a former NFL player and actor. Alex Karras was the brother of Ted Karras Sr., making him part of the Karras football family.
Who was Ted Karras Sr.?
Ted Karras Sr. was a defensive tackle in the NFL and won a championship with the Chicago Bears in 1963. He passed away in 2016 but left behind a strong football legacy.