NFL to reward its 'unsung heroes' with an OL Protector of the Year Award

Offensive linemen may get acknowledged and credited by their teammates and coaches, but they don't often receive recognition from the external NFL community and have never won individual accolades for their efforts. 

In 2025, that will change. The NFL introduced the Protector of the Year Award at the league's spring meeting on Wednesday. It will be given to the best offensive lineman each season and handed out at the annual NFL Honors event, alongside the Most Valuable Player, Offensive Player of the Year, Defensive Player of the Year and many other prestigious achievements. 

"We might not have all the fancy stats or end up on a highlight reel every week," Buffalo Bills tackle Dion Dawkins said. "But without us, there's no rushing titles, passing titles, or touchdowns." 

Josh Allen, the MVP of the 2024 NFL season, would likely agree with his blindside protector. In fact, Dawkins presented Allen with the award in February and was thanked by him.

"D-Dawk, thank you for presenting — I really appreciate it," Allen said. "I know this is an individual award and it says 'most valuable player' on it, but I think it's derived from team success ... and I love my team." 

Allen was sacked a career-low 14 times, and his ability to stay upright was key to the Bills going 13-4 and winning the AFC East. Many NFL teams and front offices, like the Bills, believe the key to success is building from the trenches out. The three teams ranked right behind the Bills in sacks allowed in 2024 — the Green Bay Packers (22), the Baltimore Ravens (24) and the Denver Broncos (24) — also made the playoffs. 

Running backs like Saquon Barkley experienced the difference a sturdy offensive line can make as he ran for a career-best 2,005 yards and 5.8 yards