“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:
Protector of the Year is based strictly on performance during the 2025 season. The panel evaluated players using the following criteria:
