NFL Introduces Protector of the Year Award for Offensive Linemen

New York, NY – The NFL announced on May 21, 2025, that it will introduce the Protector of the Year Award, recognizing the league’s best offensive lineman. This exciting development came during the league’s spring meeting, with decisions being made by a panel of former offensive line greats.

NFL executive vice president of football operations Troy Vincent credited retired offensive tackle Andrew Whitworth for advocating for this new accolade. “History was made today,” said Dion Dawkins, the Buffalo Bills left tackle, who has been instrumental in pushing for the award. “This award means everything to the big guys up front,” he added.

Dawkins emphasized that the Protector of the Year Award is not only about statistics but also about the mindset, grit, and leadership of offensive linemen. He stated, “It’s time the men who lead, protect, and never ask for credit are recognized as the backbone of this game!”

The decision to create the award aims to provide offensive linemen with recognition similar to that received by their counterparts at the collegiate level. In college football, the Lombardi Award honors the best lineman, while the Outland Trophy is awarded for the best interior lineman.

The winner of the Protector of the Year Award will be selected by a panel that includes several accomplished former NFL offensive linemen, including Will Shields, Jason Kelce, LeCharles Bentley, Shaun O’Hara, and Orlando Pace.

The NFL previously had the Built Ford Tough Offensive Line of the Year award, which was discontinued after the 2018 season. Vincent’s announcement marks a new chapter in recognizing the significant contributions of offensive linemen in professional football.