If you want to know why an offense thrives (or collapses) look no further than the big men up front. Quarterbacks get the headlines, and skill players get the highlights, but offensive lines are the engines that keep everything moving (or not). Heading into the 2025 season, we’re breaking down and ranking all 32 offensive lines in the NFL starting at the bottom and ending at the top.
32. Houston Texans
Projected Starting Lineup: LT Cam Robinson, LG Laken Tomlinson, C Jake Andrews, RG Tytus Howard, RT Blake Fisher
At the bottom of the rankings sits a Houston Texans offensive line that went from shaky to straight-up concerning in just one offseason. If protecting C.J. Stroud was priority number one heading into 2025… somebody missed the memo. Let’s start with the two gaping holes left behind. Laremy Tunsil, a franchise-caliber left tackle, and Shaq Mason, a rock-solid guard, are both gone. Their replacements? Cam Robinson, a decent veteran who’s been consistently average, and Laken Tomlinson, whose play has declined steeply over the past two seasons. The only bright-ish spot is Tytus Howard at right guard, who posted a respectable PFF grade above 64.0 last year, but even he struggled to stay healthy. At center, the Texans are rolling with Jake Andrews, a lightly-used second-year player who’s still adjusting to the speed and power of NFL defensive lines. Then there’s Blake Fisher, a second year player at right tackle with impressive measurables and potential, but he’s raw. Thrusting him into a starting role out of the gate is more desperation than strategy. Add it all up, and this line isn’t just the worst in the league on paper, it may be putting one of the NFL’s most promising young quarterbacks in danger. After a stellar rookie year, C.J. Stroud took a step back in 2024 thanks in large part to constant pressure and limited protection. And unless multiple players on this line drastically outperform expectations, he’ll be dodging defenders again every Sunday.
31. Cincinnati Bengals
Projected Starting Lineup: LT Orlando Brown Jr., LG Dylan Fairchild, C Ted Karras, RG Lucas Patrick, RT Amarius Mims
The Bengals just can’t seem to solve their offensive line riddle, and 2025 doesn’t look like the year they finally crack the code. Despite throwing money, draft picks, and wishful thinking at the problem, this group continues to be more of a burden than a backbone for Joe Burrow. Let’s start with the one steady hand: Ted Karras. The veteran center was the only Cincinnati lineman to earn a PFF grade above 58.0 last season. At left tackle, Orlando Brown Jr. was supposed to be the cornerstone of the line. Instead, he’s been wildly inconsistent. On the right side, Amarius Mims is a physical freak with All-Pro upside… someday. But last season proved he’s not there yet. As a rookie, he gave up four sacks and 33 pressures on just 560 passing snaps. The guard spots are even murkier. Lucas Patrick, a journeyman, brings experience and grit, but his best football is likely behind him. Dylan Fairchild, the rookie, is a high-upside mauler from Georgia who could eventually become a force, but counting on a mid-round rookie to stabilize the line right away is a risky bet. This unit lacks cohesion, consistency, and top-end talent. And once again, it’s shaping up to be Joe Burrow vs. the world in the pocket. If the Bengals are going to make another deep playoff run, it’ll be because Burrow pulls off weekly miracles, not because his protection finally stepped up.
30. Cleveland Browns
Projected Starting Lineup: LT Dawand Jones, LG Joel Bitonio, C Ethan Pocic, RG Wyatt Teller, RT Jack Conklin
Not long ago, the Browns had one of the most feared offensive lines in football. But fast forward to 2025, and that once-mighty wall is starting to show some serious cracks. The unit averaged just a 60.5 PFF grade in 2024 and surrendered 19 sacks and 147 pressures, one of the worst marks in the league. It starts with Dawand Jones, the mammoth left tackle who wowed in his rookie season but hit a massive sophomore slump. If Cleveland has any hope of bouncing back, it starts with Jones regaining his form. Joel Bitonio and Wyatt Teller, once Pro Bowl staples, are still solid, but age is creeping in. Bitonio turns 34 this season, and while he remains one of the NFL’s smartest and toughest interior linemen, the athleticism just isn’t what it used to be. At center, Ethan Pocic is serviceable, but hasn’t been the same since his strong 2022 campaign. Jack Conklin returns after a brutal string of injuries, and no one really knows what version of him the Browns are getting. The front office did attempt to patch things up with the additions of Teven Jenkins and Cornelius Lucas, both quality veterans who can step in if (and likely when) injuries strike again. If everything breaks right, they could climb the rankings. But based on last season’s film and the miles on these legs… they’ve got a long road ahead.
29. Dallas Cowboys
Projected Starting Lineup: LT Tyler Guyton, LG Tyler Smith, C Cooper Beebe, RG Tyler Booker, RT Terence Steele
nce a gold standard of offensive line play, the Dallas Cowboys now find themselves in unfamiliar territory: scrambling for answers. The retirement of Zack Martin, an all-time great, hurts majorly. However, the Cowboys took Tyler Booker, the Alabama mauler in the first round. On the left side, Tyler Smith remains one of the brighter spots. He’s a rising star at guard who plays with a violent edge and has been the team’s most reliable lineman since entering the league. But next to him is Tyler Guyton, last year’s first-round pick who struggled mightily in his debut season (so much so that he was benched midway through the year). Second year center Cooper Beebe is being asked to step into a high-pressure role after mostly playing guard in college. And finally, there’s Terence Steele. Once a breakout success story, he took a huge step back last year, allowing 9 sacks and 41 pressures on just 746 pass-blocking snaps. Whether that’s lingering rust from injury or a sign of regression remains to be seen. All told, this is a group with youth, upside… and a whole lot of question marks.
28. Seattle Seahawks
Projected Starting Lineup: LT Charles Cross, LG Grey Zabel, C Olu Oluwatimi, RG Anthony Bradford, RT Abraham Lucas
The Seahawks’ offensive line has become a tale of two extremes: one anchor on the left and a whole lot of question marks everywhere else. Let’s start with the good: Charles Cross. The former top-10 pick has blossomed into a high-end pass protector, finishing 2024 with an impressive 82.5 PFF grade. He’s athletic, technical, and holds up well against elite edge rushers, but even he needs to clean up some of the pressure issues (25 allowed last season). The Seahawks knew they had to overhaul the interior this offseason, but what they ended up with feels more like a patch job than a true upgrade. Rookie Grey Zabel, their first-round pick, is a fun talent but he’s also raw and adjusting to NFL speed. At center, Olu Oluwatimi showed flashes in limited action, but was far too inconsistent when thrust into a bigger role. Anthony Bradford at right guard is a physical mauler in the run game, but he struggled with pass protection, allowing 36 pressures and 6 sacks last season. And Abraham Lucas, once a promising starter, is trying to bounce back after an injury-riddled year that derailed his development. Altogether, this line allowed the fifth-most pressures in the NFL in 2024, and while there’s hope in Cross and Zabel, the rest of the unit remains a major liability. If the Seahawks want to keep their new quarterback Sam Darnold clean and their offense moving, they’ll need several of these young players to take major leaps… and fast.
27. Kansas City Chiefs
Projected Starting Lineup: LT Jaylon Moore, LG Kingsley Suamataia, C Creed Humphrey, RG Trey Smith, RT Jawaan Taylor
For years, the Chiefs’ offensive line has done just enough to keep Patrick Mahomes standing and the offense humming. But in the 2024 Super Bowl, the cracks finally showed, and they showed big. The absence of a true left tackle became a glaring weakness, and it played a huge role in stalling Kansas City’s offense on football’s biggest stage. Now the Chiefs are hoping Jaylon Moore can hold down the fort at left tackle while first-round rookie Josh Simmons recovers from a torn patellar tendon. At left guard, Kingsley Suamataia steps into a critical role. The second-year lineman flashed elite athleticism at BYU and has all the traits to become a high-level starter, but he’s still raw. Luckily for Mahomes, the heart of the line remains intact. Creed Humphrey is still one of the NFL’s premier centers. Trey Smith is a great right guard (though he was franchise tagged this year so the Chiefs will have to make a decision on him after this year). And on the edge, Jawaan Taylor needs to bounce back after a 2024 season filled with penalties and inconsistent pass protection. Unless the left side can hold up, Mahomes might find himself scrambling more than ever in 2025.
26. Miami Dolphins
Projected Starting Lineup: LT Patrick Paul, LG James Daniels, C Aaron Brewer, RG Jonah Savaiinaea, RT Austin Jackson
The Miami Dolphins’ offensive line enters 2025 in a bit of a transitional phase, and that’s putting it nicely. With longtime anchor Terron Armstead retiring, the blindside protection duties now fall to Patrick Paul, a second-year tackle who had his rookie moments… mostly the kind you learn from, not highlight. There’s at least some optimism along the interior. James Daniels was a rock in Pittsburgh before missing most of 2024 due to injury, and his arrival gives Miami a steady veteran presence at left guard. At center, Aaron Brewer returns after a serviceable 2024 campaign, bringing versatility and solid mobility in Miami’s zone-heavy run game. But the real X-factor is Jonah Savaiinaea, the second-round rookie out of Arizona. He’s built like a fridge and moves like a truck, and if his power translates early, he could bring some much-needed nastiness to the right guard spot. Austin Jackson, meanwhile, continues his slow but steady development at right tackle. He’s still inconsistent in pass protection, but has shown enough improvement to hold onto the job (for now). If the Dolphins want to keep Tua upright and the offense firing, they’ll need this line to overcome expectations.
25. New York Giants
Projected Starting Lineup: LT Andrew Thomas, LG Jon Runyan, C John Michael Schmitz Jr., RG Greg Van Roten, RT Jermaine Eluemunor
After a disastrous 2023 showing, the Giants’ offensive line finally took a step in the right direction. Veteran pickups like Jon Runyan and Greg Van Roten brought experience and stability, while Jermaine Eluemunor added versatility and grit to the right side. Together, the group surrendered 23 sacks and 137 pressures: Still a lot, but a far cry from the chaos fans had gotten used to. The biggest “what-if” remains Andrew Thomas, a top-tier left tackle when healthy, but injuries limited him to just 416 snaps last year. If Thomas can stay upright and John Michael Schmitz Jr. continues to develop in Year 2, this line could sneak into the league’s middle tier. For now, it’s a patchwork unit that’s finally stopped the bleeding, but is still searching for consistency.
24. New Orleans Saints
Projected Starting Lineup: LT Kelvin Banks Jr., LG Dillon Radunz, C Erik McCoy, RG Cesar Ruiz, RT Taliese Fuaga
The Saints kicked off their 2025 draft by snagging Kelvin Banks Jr., a powerful left tackle from Texas, with a top-10 pick to pair with last year’s first-rounder Taliese Fuaga. This gives New Orleans two high-upside tackles under 24 years old, potentially the anchors of their offensive line for the next decade. In the middle, Erik McCoy is still the unsung hero of the line. When healthy, he’s one of the best centers in football, emphasis on when healthy. Cesar Ruiz has had an up-and-down career, but the former first-rounder still flashes enough talent to be a quality starter. And at left guard? Well… that’s where things get spicy. Dillon Radunz is penciled in for now, but the Saints will give plenty of other players a shot to start there. This line is young with some serious potential, all that’s left is to put it all together and hope the injury bug finally picks on someone else.
23. San Francisco 49ers
Projected Starting Lineup: LT Trent Williams, LG Ben Bartch, C Jake Brendel, RG Dominick Puni, RT Colton McKivitz
Trent Williams still exists, and he’s still ridiculous. Even at age 36, Williams posted an 85.6 PFF grade in 2024 and remains one of the most technically sound, violent, and flat-out terrifying tackles in football. On the other side, Colton McKivitz returns at right tackle after another so-so campaign, and he’ll need to hold off competition from within to keep his spot. The interior features some fresh faces, and a breakout name you should remember. Dominick Puni, a fourth-round steal in 2024, turned heads with an 80.5 PFF grade on over 1,000 snaps at guard. Ben Bartch slots in at left guard after the departures of Aaron Banks and Jaylon Moore, both of whom left for greener pastures in free agency. Bartch is solid, but unproven in extended starting duty. At center, Jake Brendel remains a steady presence, though he’ll need to improve against bull rushers after some inconsistent reps last year. The 49ers’ offensive line isn’t bad, it just feels like a step down from what we’ve come to expect.
22. New England Patriots
Projected Starting Lineup: LT Will Campbell, LG Cole Strange, C Garrett Bradbury, RG Mike Onwenu, RT Morgan Moses
Let’s not sugarcoat it, New England’s offensive line in 2024 was a mess. A “giving-up-231-pressures” kind of mess. But to their credit, the Patriots attacked the problem head-on this offseason. They started by drafting Will Campbell with the 4th overall pick, and the kid looks like the real deal. At LSU, Campbell was a rock at left tackle, surrendering just four sacks and 32 pressures on more than 1,400 pass-blocking snaps. Next, they went out and signed Garrett Bradbury to shore up the center position. He’s not elite, but he brings experience, mobility, and much-needed communication to an offensive line that often looked like five strangers trying to do a group project. On the right side, Mike Onwenu remains New England’s most reliable lineman. He’ll be paired with veteran Morgan Moses, who, while past his prime, still knows how to hold the edge and isn’t afraid to get nasty in the run game. Cole Strange is the swing piece here. The 2022 first-round pick has had a rocky start to his career, showing flashes of talent but struggling with consistency and penalties. The Patriots still have plenty to prove, but the talent infusion up front gives fans real hope. It’s not incredible, but it finally gives Drake Maye at least something to work with.
21. Tennessee Titans
Projected Starting Lineup: LT Dan Moore Jr., LG Peter Skoronski, C Lloyd Cushenberry III, RG Kevin Zeitler, RT JC Latham
Tennessee’s offensive line was flat-out bad in 2024, with three returning starters allowing 16 sacks and 89 pressures combined. They brought in veteran Kevin Zeitler, who somehow managed to turn back the clock in Detroit last year. He posted an 86.5 PFF grade, the second-highest of his 13-year career and Dan Moore Jr. will slide in at left tackle after an up-and-down stint in Pittsburgh. There’s reason for hope in Tennessee, but it’s cautious optimism. If everything clicks this could be a league-average group. But if the rookies struggle and the vets show their age… Well, buckle up, Cam Ward.
20. Jacksonville Jaguars
Projected Starting Lineup: LT Walker Little, LG Ezra Cleveland, C Robert Hainsey, RG Patrick Mekari, RT Anton Harrison
The Jaguars’ offensive line was, to put it kindly, a work in progress in 2024. But 2025 brings fresh faces and a chance to rewrite the narrative. Enter Robert Hainsey and Patrick Mekari, two experienced, steady-handed linemen who bring much-needed professionalism to the interior. Hainsey has been a durable, versatile option in Tampa Bay, while Mekari is one of the most flexible linemen in the league, having started at multiple positions during his time in Baltimore. They may not be stars, but they instantly raise the floor of this line. Ezra Cleveland remains a bit of a mystery. He’s shown flashes of dominance, particularly in the run game, but inconsistency has plagued him since entering the league. On the right side, Anton Harrison returns after a rollercoaster of a sophomore season. He’s got the physical tools, and he showed improvement down the stretch, but he’ll need to take a leap forward in both technique and awareness to solidify the right tackle spot. To help out, the Jags took Wyatt Milum in the third round of the draft. He didn’t allow a single sack in three seasons and posted an 89.2 run-blocking grade. It’s not great, but there’s a foundation here. Just one that needs time, chemistry, and maybe a little Trevor Lawrence magic to reach its potential.
19. Las Vegas Raiders
Projected Starting Lineup: LT Kolton Miller, LG Jordan Meredith, C Jackson Powers-Johnson, RG Dylan Parham, RT DJ Glaze
The Raiders offensive line is one of the biggest wildcards in the NFL. Kolton Miller continues to be one of the most solid and underappreciated left tackles in football. At center, the Raiders are putting their faith in Jackson Powers-Johnson, a powerful second year player who started off rocky at guard but came alive when shifted to his natural position late in the year. Next to him is Jordan Meredith, a player who flew under the radar but quietly balled out in limited snaps. Dylan Parham returns at right guard, offering familiarity and experience, though he’ll need to improve on his consistency in both pass protection and run fits to hold off competition. Rounding out the group is second year tackle DJ Glaze, a big-bodied brawler with upside but most likely a learning curve. It’ll be fun to see what quarterback Geno Smith and rookie running back Ashton Jeanty will be able to accomplish behind this O-line.
18. Washington Commanders
Projected Starting Lineup: LT Laremy Tunsil, LG Brandon Coleman, C Tyler Biadasz, RG Sam Cosmi, RT Josh Conerly Jr.
The Commanders’ front office clearly got the memo: if you want your rookie quarterback to survive, protect him at all costs. It all starts with the headline move: trading for Laremy Tunsil, one of the best pass-blocking tackles in the NFL. Tunsil is the ultimate blindside bodyguard, allowing 23 or fewer pressures in seven of his eight career seasons. Across from him, Washington doubled down by drafting Josh Conerly Jr. in the first round. He’s young, explosive, and still refining his technique, but the raw talent is obvious. Sam Cosmi continues to impress at right guard after moving inside from tackle, finishing 2024 with a solid 72.4 PFF grade. Tyler Biadasz arrives from Dallas, bringing experience, toughness, and the kind of nasty demeanor that Commanders fans will love. And then there’s Brandon Coleman, the wild card. Coleman is an athletic specimen with long arms and heavy hands who will be moving from tackle to guard in 2025. It may take a few games for everything to click, but if the pieces gel, Jayden Daniels could be standing behind one of the league’s better offensive lines by midseason.
17. Indianapolis Colts
Projected Starting Lineup: LT Bernhard Raimann, LG Quenton Nelson, C Tanor Bortolini, RG Matt Goncalves, RT Braden Smith
This unit is in a transitional phase, but there’s enough raw talent and upside here to keep things interesting (and possibly surprise people by midseason). Bernhard Raimann has quietly become one of the NFL’s most reliable left tackles. After two straight seasons with PFF grades over 82.0, he’s gone from a developmental flier to a franchise cornerstone. On the right side, Braden Smith isn’t flashy, but he’s dependable. Injuries have slowed him in recent years, but when healthy, he’s still a solid pass protector with a strong punch in the run game. Inside, it’s a different story. Quenton Nelson may not be the same dominant force he was during his All-Pro years, but he proved in 2024 that he’s still got some left in the tank. The Colts are rolling the dice with Tanor Bortolini at center and Matt Goncalves at right guard, two second-year players who’ll be learning on the fly. Expect growing pains, but there’s reason for optimism if the youngins develop quickly.
16. Green Bay Packers
Projected Starting Lineup: LT Rasheed Walker, LG Aaron Banks, C Elgton Jenkins, RG Sean Rhyan, RT Zach Tom
The Packers’ offensive line enters 2025 as a fascinating mix of sure things, new faces, and high-upside maybes. Let’s start with the crown jewel: Zach Tom, Green Bay’s rock-solid right tackle. Fresh off an 87.5 PFF grade, Tom has quietly developed into one of the best tackles in football. Flipping to the left side, Rasheed Walker was serviceable in 2024, but the Packers clearly want more. That’s why they drafted Jordan Morgan in the 2024 first-round and Anthony Belton in the 2025 second-round. In the middle, Green Bay made a bold move by shifting Elgton Jenkins to center after the departure of Josh Myers. The team also added veteran guard Aaron Banks to hold down the left side. Banks brings playoff experience from San Francisco and should offer some much-needed stability next to Jenkins. On the right, Sean Rhyan is still a bit of a mystery. He showed flashes last season but needs to prove he can hold up across a full schedule. The Packers’ line might not look dominant on paper, but it’s loaded with upside, flexibility, and depth.
15. Arizona Cardinals
Projected Starting Lineup: LT Paris Johnson Jr., LG Evan Brown, C Hjalte Froholdt, RG Isaiah Adams, RT Jonah Williams
This unit won’t dominate your timeline with highlight-reel pancake blocks, but it quietly became one of the more steady and functional groups in football. Paris Johnson Jr. looked like a different player in 2024 after finally being moved to his natural position on the left side. Meanwhile, Evan Brown, Hjalte Froholdt, and Jonah Williams may not light up All-Pro ballots, but they’re seasoned, technically sound, and don’t beat themselves with mental mistakes. Second year guard Isaiah Adams is the wild card here. The physical tools are there, and if he can hold his own, this group could quietly become one of the more underrated lines in the NFC.
14. New York Jets
Projected Starting Lineup: LT Olu Fashanu, LG John Simpson, C Joe Tippmann, RG Alijah Vera-Tucker, RT Armand Membou
It’s taken a few years, several busted signings, and more injury luck than one franchise should be allowed to have, but the New York Jets may have finally built a real offensive line. After bouncing around the line as a rookie in 2024, Fashanu now gets a full offseason to lock in as the starting left tackle. Opposite him, first-rounder Armand Membou might be the Jets’ most important rookie. But the real heart of this group lies inside. Joe Tippmann has quietly emerged as one of the best young centers in the league. To his left, John Simpson brings toughness, consistency, and a personality that fits right in with Gang Green’s identity. And don’t forget about Alijah Vera-Tucker, arguably the most versatile lineman in football. Whether at guard or tackle, AVT has proven he can dominate anywhere he’s lined up when healthy. New quarterback Justin Fields has a reputation for holding onto the ball for far too long, so having a good offensive line will be key in the Jets success. If Fashanu and Membou grow into their roles, don’t be surprised if this unit jumps into the top 10 sooner rather than later.
13. Pittsburgh Steelers
Projected Starting Lineup: LT Broderick Jones, LG Isaac Seumalo, C Zach Frazier, RG Mason McCormick, RT Troy Fautanu
This may not be the most polished or experienced unit in the league, but it’s one of the most intriguing. What started as a patchwork group in 2024 turned into a developmental goldmine thanks to injuries, which opened the door for the Steelers’ young talent to get thrown into the fire. Second-round rookie Zach Frazier was a revelation at center. His 76.8 PFF grade, paired with just one sack and 12 pressures allowed, proved that Pittsburgh may have found their long-term anchor in the middle. On his right, fourth-round surprise Mason McCormick turned heads with a scrappy, no-quit play style that perfectly fits Pittsburgh’s identity. Then there’s the tackle duo: Broderick Jones and Troy Fautanu. Jones, entering a make-or-break year, still flashes the athleticism that made him a first-rounder, but the technique and consistency remain a work in progress. And let’s not forget Isaac Seumalo, the savvy vet holding down the left guard spot. Pittsburgh’s O-line may still have a few kinks to iron out, but the upside is real. If Broderick Jones takes that next step, don’t be surprised if this group goes from underrated to unstoppable.
12. Buffalo Bills
Projected Starting Lineup: LT Dion Dawkins, LG David Edwards, C Connor McGovern, RG O’Cyrus Torrence, RT Spencer Brown
The Buffalo Bills’ offensive line might not have any household names outside of Buffalo, but together they play like a tight-knit, battle-tested unit, and that’s exactly what Josh Allen needs. Let’s start at tackle, where Dion Dawkins remains the anchor. In 2024, he allowed only two sacks and earned a PFF grade over 70 for the third time in four seasons. Across from him, Spencer Brown has quietly developed into a rock-solid right tackle. After a shaky start to his career, he turned the corner last season, also allowing just two sacks. On the interior, David Edwards and Connor McGovern aren’t game-changers, but they’re smart, steady veterans who know how to handle stunts and blitzes, an absolute must when your quarterback extends plays like Allen does. Then there’s O’Cyrus Torrence, the powerful but still-developing second-year guard. After flashing potential as a rookie, Torrence took a small step backward in 2024. The strength is there but his footwork and reaction time in pass protection still need work. The good news? He’s still just 24, and the upside is undeniable. They’re not the flashiest line in the league, but don’t let that fool you. This unit is blue-collar, battle-hardened, and quietly one of the biggest reasons Buffalo remains an AFC powerhouse.
11. Baltimore Ravens
Projected Starting Lineup: LT Ronnie Stanley, LG Andrew Vorhees, C Tyler Linderbaum, RG Daniel Faalele, RT Roger Rosengarten
The Baltimore Ravens are in the middle of a quiet rebuild up front, but you wouldn’t know it by how they played in 2024. Despite multiple moving parts, a rookie and also a 2nd year starter, this group held up surprisingly well and helped Baltimore remain one of the most efficient offenses in football. The centerpiece remains Tyler Linderbaum, one of the league’s most athletic and intelligent centers. On the inside, 2023 7th round pick Andrew Vorhees finally got his shot and made the most of it. The right side is where things get interesting. Daniel Faalele and Roger Rosengarten were thrown into the fire last year and held up better than expected, just five sacks allowed combined, though they surrendered 69 pressures. Still, the upside is clear, and with a full offseason to improve, both could make big strides in 2025.
10. Chicago Bears
Projected Starting Lineup: LT Braxton Jones, LG Joe Thuney, C Drew Dalman, RG Jonah Jackson, RT Darnell Wright
For the first time in what feels like forever, the Chicago Bears’ offensive line isn’t a liability. After giving up a league leading 68 sacks, new head coach Ben Johnson went all-in this offseason. The Bears’ biggest splash came via trade, landing Joe Thuney, one of the most technically sound guards in football. He’s a championship-caliber lineman with years of elite-level play under his belt, and in 2024, he allowed just 1 sack and 15 pressures across 600+ pass-blocking snaps. Plug him in next to Drew Dalman, the former Falcons center who also allowed just 1 sack and 20 pressures, and you’ve got a rock-solid interior. But Chicago didn’t stop there, they brought in Jonah Jackson, adding even more firepower to the right side of the line. Darnell Wright, their 2023 first-round pick, is locked in at right tackle and continues to develop into one of the nastiest young linemen in the league. On the left side, Braxton Jones remains the starter for now, but he’s a question mark coming back from a fractured fibula. So the Bears created some competition here, selecting Boston College’s Ozzy Trapilo in the second round of the draft. The key word here is stability. For the first time in years, Chicago’s O-line looks like a cohesive unit instead of a weekly guessing game. And it gives Caleb Williams a real shot to prove himself this year.
9. Carolina Panthers
Projected Starting Lineup: LT Ikem Ekwonu, LG Damien Lewis, C Austin Corbett, RG Robert Hunt, RT Taylor Moton
The Carolina Panthers might not have had much go right in 2024, but their offensive line showed real signs of life, especially on the interior. After aggressively investing in guards during free agency, the Panthers finally gave Bryce Young something he desperately needed: a pocket he could actually step up into. Both Damien Lewis and Robert Hunt proved worth the price tag. But the spotlight (and the pressure) is squarely on Ikem Ekwonu. The former top-10 pick has been an elite run blocker from day one. But in pass protection? It’s been rough. Over just two seasons, Ekwonu has already surrendered 24 sacks and 110 pressures on 1,875 pass-blocking snaps. Those numbers are hard to ignore, and they’ve directly contributed to Bryce Young’s rocky start as an NFL quarterback. Still, there’s reason to believe in the upside. Ekwonu has all the tools: strength, length, and athleticism. And on the right side, veteran Taylor Moton continues to be one of the league’s most underrated tackles: always steady and rarely penalized. This line isn’t perfect, but it’s trending in the right direction. Don’t be shocked if Carolina’s offense is top 10 in 2025.
8. Detroit Lions
Projected Starting Lineup: LT Taylor Decker, LG Christian Mahogany, C Tate Ratledge, RG Graham Glasgow, RT Penei Sewell
The Detroit Lions have had one of the NFL’s most dominant offensive lines in recent years, but the 2025 season marks a new chapter in the trenches. With the sudden retirement of Frank Ragnow, the heartbeat of the O-line is gone, and that loss drops this group a few spots down the rankings. However, the Lions are still rolling out some serious talent. Penei Sewell is a tone-setter at right tackle and arguably the best run-blocking tackle in football. On the left, Taylor Decker remains a rock-solid veteran who’s quietly been one of the most reliable blindside protectors in the league. With Ragnow out, rookie Tate Ratledge, a natural guard out of Georgia, is expected to slide over to center. That transition isn’t easy, but Ratledge’s power, football IQ, and SEC pedigree give him a strong foundation. Next to him, Graham Glasgow is back for another tour as the dependable veteran who can play anywhere inside. He’s tough, versatile, and already has chemistry with both Decker and Sewell. And on the left side, Detroit will likely roll with rookie Christian Mahogany, a physical mauler from Boston College. Yes, losing Ragnow and Kevin Zeitler in one offseason hurts, but this is still a Dan Campbell offensive line.
7. Atlanta Falcons
Projected Starting Lineup: LT Jake Matthews, LG Matthew Bergeron, C Ryan Neuzil, RG Chris Lindstrom, RT Kaleb McGary
The Falcons’ offensive line remains a physical, run-first unit anchored by Chris Lindstrom, arguably the best right guard in football. Matthew Bergeron showed strong development in Year 2, and Jake Matthews continues to be a steady blindside presence. Kaleb McGary remains a dominant run blocker but can struggle in pass protection (he and Matthews allowed 11 of Atlanta’s 20 sacks in 2024). Replacing center Drew Dalman won’t be easy, but Ryan Neuzil has potential and benefits from lining up between two strong guards. If he settles in and the tackles tighten up in pass pro, this group has the talent to be a top 10 unit easily.
6. Los Angeles Chargers
Projected Starting Lineup: LT Rashawn Slater, LG Zion Johnson, C Bradley Bozeman, RG Mekhi Becton, RT Joe Alt
Jim Harbaugh didn’t take long to put his stamp on the Los Angeles Chargers, and nowhere is that more obvious than in the trenches. The Chargers might already have the best young tackle duo in the NFL. On the left side, Rashawn Slater was back to All-Pro form in 2024, earning a wild 91.1 PFF grade. On the right, rookie Joe Alt looked NFL-ready from the jump. The No. 5 overall pick delivered a rock-solid 71.0 PFF grade and held his own against the league’s best rushers. Together, Slater and Alt allowed just 9 total sacks and 42 pressures across over 1,800 combined snaps. Then in free agency, Harbaugh brought in right guard Mekhi Becton, fresh off a bounce back season with the Eagles. Left guard Zion Johnson, the team’s 2022 first round pick, is still a bit of a mystery. He’s had flashes, but the consistency hasn’t been there yet. This unit isn’t just about protection, it’s about identity. Harbaugh wants to run the ball, control the line of scrimmage, and punch you in the mouth.
5. Los Angeles Rams
Projected Starting Lineup: LT Alaric Jackson, LG Steve Avila, C Beaux Limmer, RG Kevin Dotson, RT Rob Havenstein
If you’re looking for a bounce-back story in the trenches, circle the Los Angeles Rams. In 2024, their offensive line suffered a fair share of injuries, with only Kevin Dotson and Alaric Jackson managing to crack the 900 snap mark. But from the rubble emerged Beaux Limmer, a sixth-round rookie who stepped into the starting center role and looked like he belonged from day one. They’ve got youth, experience, and now, a little extra depth thanks to last year’s chaos. If this group can just stay healthy, and that’s a big “if”, they’ve got all the pieces to be a top 5 offensive line.
4. Minnesota Vikings
Projected Starting Lineup: LT Christian Darrisaw, LG Donovan Jackson, C Ryan Kelly, RG Will Fries, RT Brian O’Neill
After years of inconsistency up the middle, the Vikings front office finally said enough’s enough and went to work. It started in free agency, when Minnesota signed not one, but two starters from the Colts’ veteran offensive line. First came Ryan Kelly, a former Pro Bowler and one of the steadiest centers in football. Next was Will Fries, an underrated right guard who brings toughness, smarts, and nearly 2,000 career snaps of experience. Then came the splash move: drafting Donovan Jackson in the first round out of Ohio State. Jackson was a three time First Team All Big Ten selection, and he plays like a seasoned pro already. But the key to unlocking this unit’s full potential is Christian Darrisaw. Before suffering a Week 8 ACL tear, Darrisaw was playing like a top-five left tackle in the NFL. If he returns to form (and all signs point to him being on track) the Vikings could have a franchise cornerstone back protecting the blind side. If the pieces click (especially on the interior) this group could go from an annual question mark to a top five unit by season’s end. For a Vikings offense featuring a rookie QB and plenty of skill position talent, that’s exactly the kind of foundation they’ll need.
3. Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Projected Starting Lineup: LT Tristan Wirfs, LG Ben Bredeson, C Graham Barton, RG Cody Mauch, RT Luke Goedeke
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers offensive line was the unsung hero of Baker Mayfield’s 2024 comeback tour. At the heart of it all is Tristan Wirfs, Tampa’s do-it-all left tackle and a certified superstar. The dude was a human shield in 2024, allowing just one quarterback hit and zero sacks the entire season. But the biggest glow-up came from Cody Mauch at right guard. After a shaky rookie year where he looked overwhelmed at times (his 44.7 PFF grade told the story), Mauch flipped the script in 2024 with a 75.4 grade, dramatically cutting down his sacks allowed from seven to two. Meanwhile, Luke Goedeke continued to prove he belongs at right tackle. After a position switch early in his career, he settled in nicely. Ben Bredeson steps in at left guard after a solid stint with the Giants, and all eyes are on first-round pick Graham Barton to lock down the center spot. All told, Tampa’s O-line isn’t just solid: it’s versatile, young, and still getting better.
2. Philadelphia Eagles
Projected Starting Lineup: LT Jordan Mailata, LG Landon Dickerson, C Cam Jurgens, RG Tyler Steen, RT Lane Johnson
The Eagles are running it back with four of the five starters from what was one of the best offensive lines in football last season, giving up just 10 sacks and 76 total pressures over the entire season and winning a Super Bowl to cap it all off (also set the record for the heaviest offensive line in Super Bowl history at a combined 1688 pounds/338 avg). Left tackle Jordan Mailata played like an absolute monster, earning an absurd 95.8 PFF grade, and Lane Johnson continued to age like fine wine. The only real question heading into 2025 is right guard. With Mekhi Becton out the door, the battle is on between former second-rounder Tyler Steen and trade pickup Kenyon Green, who’s looking to revive his career in a far more stable environment.
1. Denver Broncos
Projected Starting Lineup: LT Garett Bolles, LG Ben Powers, C Luke Wattenberg, RG Quinn Meinerz, RT Mike McGlinchey
If you’re building a dream offensive line from scratch, you might want to take a long, hard look at what the Denver Broncos have going on up front. Not only did the Broncos finish first in PFF’s pass-blocking grade, they also topped ESPN’s pass block win rate leaderboard, turning a long-standing weakness into a full-blown strength. And the best part is that all five starters are back for another season. Garett Bolles continues to provide steady blindside protection, while Mike McGlinchey found his groove on the right side with his best season since 2020. Center Luke Wattenberg stepped up in a big way, anchoring the middle with poise. But the star of the show is Quinn Meinerz. The former D3 phenom has developed into one of the most dominant right guards, earning an 88.2 PFF grade. And with Ben Powers holding it down at left guard, the interior is just as nasty as the edges. From top to bottom, this group plays fast, physical, and nasty. They’re smart, disciplined, and synced up like a unit that’s been together for years because, well, they have. Denver’s offensive line in 2025 is once again shaping up to be a nightmare for defensive coordinators.
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