Teams live or die by the offensive lineman, meaning these five names should be up for a big payday when NFL free agency begins in March
For anyone who doesn’t appreciate the value of the offensive line, they really need to sit and watch the film. A quarterback’s best friend shouldn’t be the weapons on the outside, but rather the five names upfront that give him ample protection and time to throw.
Why do you think running backs always buy their line a nifty gift when they win the rushing title? Literally, without a great unit, they’d likely be limited in their production.
Offensive linemen are a dime a dozen to some, but others will be willing to pay the high price to bolster their front. Any chance to help a young quarterback thrive will be necessary and sometimes the NFL Draft offers little hope all around.
Not every draft class as a generational pass-protector ready to play Week 1.
The 2021 offseason could feature one of the best classes to upgrade the trenches. The thing is, teams are going to have to open their wallets if they hope to secure them long-term. When looking at the top five though, there’s no buyer’s remorse no matter how you look at it.
NFL free agency features some talented offensive linemen on the market
Any other season and Joe Thuney would likely be the best interior offensive lineman in the class. Since being drafted out of North Carolina State, the New England Patriots have profited on having one of the more reliable and well-versed guards in the NFL.
Thuney, 26, still was on point in the post-Tom Brady era, finishing with only 17 pressures allowed in last season. The year before, he was named a Second-Team All-Pro at his role at left guard, but also filled in nicely at center for the injured David Andrews.
As a pass blocker, Thuney has improved over the past two years. As a run blocker, few move as well as him laterally to pick up the extra block. Teams with mobile quarterbacks and positive run games will love having a player of Thuney as a lead blocker in zone schemes that will allow teams to keep drives alive.
He’s also incredibly durable, starting in every game since 2016. Someone is going to pay for him. They might even overpay for him. Then again, he’s probably worth it if looking to bolster the line.