The NFL’s individual awards always create buzz during the season, with fans and analysts watching closely to predict who will take home honors like Most Valuable Player, Defensive Player of the Year, and Coach of the Year.
Now, for the 2025 season, the league is adding something new: the “Protector of the Year” award. This fresh honor is already being hyped as one of the coolest awards in football, and here’s why.
NFL Announces ‘Protector of the Year’ Award
One of the biggest criticisms about NFL awards is the lack of clear, consistent criteria, especially for the MVP. Last season, many believed Lamar Jackson was the league’s best player, earning First-Team All-Pro. But the MVP went to Josh Allen of the Buffalo Bills, sparking debates about merit, narrative and voter bias.
A common point from analysts is how some positions are often ignored. Safeties, kickers and especially offensive linemen rarely get recognition, even though their roles are vital. Of all of them, offensive linemen have arguably been the most overlooked — until now.
This is AWESOME: The NFL is introducing a new annual award: Protector of the Year, which will honor the league’s top offensive lineman.
— Ari Meirov (@MySportsUpdate)
Starting in 2025, the NFL will hand out the “Protector of the Year” award to the league’s top offensive lineman. The goal is to shine a light on one of the sport’s most important — and least glamorous — positions.
While quarterbacks, receivers and running backs get credit for scoring touchdowns, it’s the linemen who create the space and time to make those plays happen. Their work is often called “dirty work,” but the offense doesn’t function without it.
This award finally gives linemen the recognition they deserve. The title “Protector of the Year” fits perfectly, too. There’s a strong tradition of quarterbacks gifting their linemen things like watches, cars or dinners as thanks for keeping them upright. It’s a reminder that these guys are the real protectors on the field.
Early favorites for the award include top tackles like Penei Sewell, Christian Darrisaw, Tristan Wirfs and Trent Williams. But don’t count out elite interior linemen — a few strong seasons could put them in the spotlight, too.
Quinn Meinerz, Joe Thuney and Creed Humphrey were the three First-Team All-Pro selections on the interior offensive line in 2024, and any of them could be in line to take home the award in its inaugural season.
Amid all the recent rule change talks aimed at evolving the game, this move has been one of the most widely praised. It’s a change that fans and players can get behind, and it’ll be one to watch all season.