New NFL Award Could Favor Tampa Bay Buccaneers Offensive Lineman
In the interest of finally marketing the big guys who work the hardest in the trenches and finally putting offensive linemen on center stage, the NFL has announced a new league award.
And it seems like something Tampa Bay Buccaneers tackle Tristan Wirfs should be up for each and every season he's in the league.
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The Protector of the Year Award will be handed out each year at the NFL Honors presentation show and will recognize the best offensive lineman that season.
Former Cincinnati Bengals and Los Angeles Rams tackle Andrew Whitworth described the award best.
'This award means everything to the big guys up front,' said Whitworth. 'The Protector of the Year isn't just about stats – it's about the mindset, grit, and leadership it takes to be the foundation of a football team. It's time the men who lead, protect, and never ask for credit are recognized as the backbone of this game.'
A press release by the NFL noted, "The award honors individual excellence and spotlights offensive linemen, whose contributions are often overlooked in the highlight-driven nature of football. It cements their role as the foundation of every great offense. Currently, offensive linemen are the only players who aren't eligible for most on-field awards."
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The winner will be selected by a panel of former offensive linemen based on skill metrics, impact, leadership, durability and strength of opponent.
The initial panel includes former players, LeCharles Bentley, Jason Kelce, Shaun O'Hara, Orlando Pace, Will Shields and Whitworth.
As the Bucs' current left tackle, Wirfs is the only player to make the Pro Bowl as a right tackle and a left tackle, and he's been voted to the Pro Bowl in four of his first five seasons in the NFL. The former Iowa Hawkeye has also received two First-Team All-Pro honors and one Second-Team All-Pro honor.
Related: Bucs Predicted To Cut Fan-Favorite from Loaded Receivers Room
Related: Ex Buccaneers Assistant GM Discusses Tampa Bay Draft Hits and Misses
New NFL Award Could Favor Tampa Bay Buccaneers Offensive Lineman first appeared on Athlon Sports on May 22, 2025
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