The NFL announced today the finalists for the first-ever Protector of the Year Award.
The award, championed by Buffalo Bills tackle Dion Dawkins and to be announced annually at NFL Honors, recognizes excellence along the offensive line by honoring the league's most outstanding lineman over a single NFL season and the winner is determined by an elite selection committee of NFL Legends. This performance-based evaluation and peer-to-peer approach shines a spotlight on a position group that is essential to team success yet often underrepresented in traditional awards.
"The offensive line carries the weight of the game. Durability, endurance, leadership and consistency define their work, even when the spotlight rarely finds them," said Troy Vincent Sr., NFL executive vice president of football operations. "Protector of the Year is about recognizing the vital role these tremendous athletes play and celebrating excellence where it starts, up front."
The award is chosen by a group of former All-Pro centers, guards, and tackles, bringing championship experience and position-specific expertise to the evaluation. These NFL Legends understand the technical demands, preparation and physical toll of the position. The panel is comprised of:
- LeCharles Bentley, two-time Pro Bowl selection
- Jason Kelce, six-time All-Pro and Super Bowl LII champion
- Shaun O'Hara, three-time Pro Bowl selection and Super Bowl XLII champion
- Orlando Pace, Pro Football Hall of Fame Class of 2016 and Super Bowl XXXIV champion
- Will Shields, Pro Football Hall of Fame Class of 2015 and 2003 Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year
- Andrew Whitworth, 2021 Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year and Super Bowl LVI champion
Protector of the Year is based strictly on performance during the 2025 season. The panel evaluated players using the following criteria:
- Quality of competition (quality and consistency of defensive fronts faced)
- Availability to teammates (presence on the field, leadership)
- Durability (ability to meet the physical demands of the season)
- Weekly consistency (sustained performance across the full schedule)
- Video validation (film review confirming execution, technique, and situational impact)
- Football analytics (advanced metrics tied to pass protection, run blocking, discipline, and team efficiency)
