NFL: Raiders make Rodney Hudson league's highest-paid center

The Oakland Raiders have signed center Rodney Hudson to a deal that makes him the NFL's highest-paid center, several news outlets reported Friday. The NFL Network reported the contract is a three-year extension worth $33.75 million. Hudson will receive $24.4 million in guaranteed money, according to the network.

Improving the offense line has been a point of emphasis for new general manager Mike Mayock ever since he was brought on by coach Jon Gruden. Hudson's deal comes on the heels of the team signing right tackle Trent Brown to a record $66 million contract. The team also persuaded veteran Richie Incognito to come out of retirement.

The moves were made to bolster the protection around quarterback Derek Carr, who is signed through the 2022 season on a contract worth $125 million.

The NFL Network report revealed that Hudson's existing $8.25 million salary for 2019 now becomes fully guaranteed, and another $16.5 million of his deal becomes fully guaranteed on the third day of the 2020 waiver period.

The 30-year-old center has proven to be one of the most durable players in the NFL. He has missed just three games since 2012 and established a reputation as one of the game's top centers. Pro Football Focus named him the best pass-blocking center in the NFL last season.

Hudson was a second-round draft pick of the Kansas City Chiefs in 2011. The Florida State product signed with the Raiders in 2015 and received a $44.5 million deal with $20 million guaranteed.

In 2016, he was Oakland's lone offensive player who played every snap. He is a two-time Pro Bowl selection and was twice an All-American at Florida State.

The Raiders, who were featured on the popular HBO documentary series "Hard Knocks," are currently two-point home favorites against the Denver Broncos for their regular season opener.