The NFL has officially added the “Protector of the Year” award to its annual slate of end-of-year honors. The award, which was introduced four months ago, will be voted on by a panel that includes former offensive linemen greats.
Top candidates for the 2025 Protector of the Year award include left tackle Trent Williams (San Francisco 49ers), right tackle Lane Johnson (Philadelphia Eagles), and versatile blocker Penei Sewell (Detroit Lions). These players have consistently demonstrated exceptional blocking skills, earning them a spot on the list.
Williams, entering his 37th season, remains one of the NFL’s best blindside blockers. He has made three consecutive All-Pro first teams from 2021-23 and was graded as a top-two tackle by Pro Football Focus in his first four seasons in San Francisco.
Johnson, a key component of the Eagles’ strong offensive line, has allowed more than one sack just once in the last six seasons and helped Philadelphia build the league’s best rushing offense in 2024. Sewell, meanwhile, has made back-to-back All-Pro first teams and finished 11th in the NFL’s Offensive Player of the Year voting for 2024.
Other notable candidates include left guard Joe Thuney (Chicago Bears), left guard Quenton Nelson (Indianapolis Colts), right guard Chris Lindstrom (Atlanta Falcons), center Creed Humphrey (Kansas City Chiefs), and center Frank Ragnow (Detroit Lions).
The NFL’s newest honor will hope to last longer, providing a platform for outstanding offensive linemen to receive recognition. The Protector of the Year award is expected to be highly competitive, with multiple players vying for top honors in 2025.
Source: https://eu.usatoday.com/story/sports/nfl/2025/05/21/nfl-protector-of-the-year-award-trent-williams-2025/83772637007