Projecting and ranking every NFL offensive line for 2026

[ASFN Admin]

There is generally a lot of lip service paid to offensive lines in the fantasy community. For the most part, fantasy analysts and managers overwhelmingly tend to reach the following conclusions about teams as it relates to offensive lines:

1) They must have a good pass-blocking line if the quarterback doesn't take a lot of sacks and
2) They must have a good run-blocking line if multiple backs on the same team run "well" consistently.

As is typically the case in this industry, such analysis is far too simplistic and far from 100% true. Analyzing offensive line play is not glamorous or easy and requires a high degree of football intelligence. Most analysts would rather resort to regression models - without accounting for line play at all - and hope for the best.

There are also no well-established stats - or any easily available to the public - other than those that players accumulate at other positions to inform the general fan as to how those five linemen are performing play after play. Shockingly, offensive line coaches are not going to share that information with the public at large anytime soon either. Thus, we have little choice but to rely on win rates and/or grading from a subscription website.

Why does any of this matter? If "it all starts up front" as coaches have been saying for decades, then getting a sense of how proficient an offensive line is at its job should mean quite a bit to the fantasy game.

Below you will find a team-by-team breakdown of the projected five starting linemen for each NFC team at their likely spots. I will project the grade for each starter and the starting group as a whole, giving them a run- and pass-blocking projected score to illuminate how I expect the lines to perform in 2026.

At the conclusion of this two-part series, I rank each team's offensive line as a run-blocking unit, pass-blocking unit and by overall score.

I am including backup linemen as well, although they will not be graded like the starters. I am doing this to: 1) illustrate the depth each team appears to have and 2) account for potential camp battles in which the expected starter could lose his job. In this article, we will dissect the NFC offensive lines. The link to the AFC version is above.

Note: Since our publishing software does not play nicely with charts and/or tables, I ask each of you to open the linked spreadsheet on your desktop/laptop and refer to both pages as you make your way through the article.

Green box - Player graded 80 or higher in that particular discipline per PFF (100-point scale)
Blue box - Player graded between 70 and 79.9 in that particular discipline
Yellow box - Player graded between 60 and 69.9 in that particular discipline
Red box - Player graded 59.9 or lower in that particular discipline
Black box - Rookie or did not play in 2025

26 R-Rating - Projected run-blocking grade
26 P-Rating - Projected pass-blocking grade

Note: Teams are listed in order of overall projected grade.

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Denver Broncos​

Offensive line coach: Chris Morgan (first season with Denver)

Cornerstone(s): Bolles may have just turned 34, but he is coming off a season in which he could easily claim he was the best lineman in the NFL. (He did not give up a sack and allowed a meager six quarterback hits on 803 pass-block snaps, including the postseason.) Quinn Meinerz is in the conversation as one of the best guards in the league. Only Atlanta's Chris Lindstrom received a better run-blocking grade among full-time guards.

Reason(s) for optimism: Continuity. The only reason that the Broncos don’t appear to have the same starting five as last year is that Ben Powers missed significant time with a torn biceps. Mike McGlinchey is a better-than-average right tackle coming off one of his best seasons as a pro.

Reason(s) for concern: Powers is probably the weakest link on the line. It is fair to say that after six straight seasons of mostly middling blocking grades, he will probably never take the next step and become anything more than what he has been. Alex Palczewski logged significant snaps in place of Powers last season, but suffice it to say that he did not prove he deserved the job. Denver also probably cannot afford a major injury to any of its starting linemen.

Los Angeles Rams​

Offensive line coach: Ryan Wendell (third season with LA Rams)

Cornerstone(s): Alaric Jackson has been something of a revelation for the Rams at left tackle, allowing the team to recover from Andrew Whitworth's retirement following the 2021 season and find their left tackle of the future after only one year. He has emerged as an elite run blocker and is close to doing the same in pass pro. While he allowed a career-high 43 pressures in 2025, he has yet to surrender more than four sacks or 10 hits on his quarterback (both last year) in his five-year NFL career. Kevin Dotson also gets the nod here as well, as he is consistently one of the highest graded run-blocking guards in the league.

Reason(s) for optimism: Steve Avila is also probably on the verge of becoming a cornerstone as well. He is not quite in Dotson's class yet as a run blocker, but the potential is there. He is arguably every bit as good in pass protection, however. As Rob Havenstein struggled to stay healthy in what turned out to be his final year in the NFL, Warren McClendon Jr. stepped up in a big way (the Rams' offense hardly dropped off without Havenstein). The challenge for McClendon will be to do it for a full season for the first time in four years as a pro. It will certainly help his cause to play next to Dotson, though.

Reason(s) for concern: About the only concern with the line in Los Angeles is the depth. Beaux Limmer was a rookie starter at center in 2024 but was ultimately the reason why the Rams wanted Coleman Shelton back after a year in Chicago. Justin Dedich filled in at guard when needed in 2025 but did not grade out particularly well.

Philadelphia Eagles​

Offensive line coach: Chris Kuper (first season with Philadelphia)

Cornerstone(s): It says a lot that Jordan Mailata finished in the green as easily as he did again last year and it was a down year for him. He has been extremely durable while allowing only a pair of sacks in each of the last two years. Just as impressively, he has not given up 30 pressures in either season. Lane Johnson's incredible run of dominance at right tackle took a hit during his age-35 season, although injuries undoubtedly played a key role in that happening. While age will be a concern for him from here on out, a completely healthy Johnson may be the best right tackle in the league - especially now with Penei Sewell moving to left tackle in Detroit.

Reason(s) for optimism: Perhaps the best thing that happened for the Eagles up front last season was the ascension of Tyler Steen, who was easily the weakest link up front when he played for the Super Bowl champions two years ago. (He was the projected starter at right guard that year until first-time guard Mekhi Becton beat him out in camp.) Penalties (nine) were a bit of a bugaboo for him a year ago, but it is something that Philadelphia can live with if he is only going to give up two sacks and one quarterback hit on 626 pass block snaps again.

Reason(s) for concern: Kuper is certainly no slouch, as he enjoyed a long NFL career with the Broncos and was the man in charge of the line for the Vikings over the last four seasons. With that said, it is an almost impossible ask for any coach to be as good as Jeff Stoutland was over 13 years for the Eagles. Outside of Kuper trying to fill Stoutland's sizable shoes, Fred Johnson is about the only bench option that Philadelphia has with any notable experience.

San Francisco 49ers​

Offensive line coach: Chris Foerster (sixth season with San Francisco)

Cornerstone(s): Not a lot needs to be said for Trent Williams. He is the rare lineman who can lift an offense when he plays and sink an offense when he doesn't. If Father Time ever ends up losing to someone, it might be him. He is still elite as he heads into his age-38 campaign.

Reason(s) for optimism: Colton McKivitz is another strong season away from joining Williams above. Only Penei Sewell earned a higher run-blocking grade among right tackles than McKivitz last year. His pass protection may never be elite, but that is less of an issue in a Kyle Shanahan offense than it might be for most play-callers. Dominick Puni did not come close to matching his stellar rookie season in 2024, although Foerster recently noted that Puni was never quite himself after suffering a PCL injury during the preseason. Puni was dominant at times in 2024, so it seems extremely likely he will be challenging McKivitz as the second-best lineman on this team again in 2026.

Reason(s) for concern: The health of Williams. The 49ers are simply not the same team without him on the field. Jake Brendel has been a rock in the middle for the team for four years, but he will turn 34 early in the season. Spencer Burford was far from special at left guard, but Connor Colby struggled in a big way while filling in for him. San Francisco has experienced guard depth to spot him (Brett Toth and Rob Jones), but neither player is someone who is likely to make the position a strength for the 49ers. The 23-year-old Colby needs to pick up things in a big way in Year 2.

Indianapolis Colts​

Offensive line coach: Tony Sparano Jr. (fourth season with Indianapolis)

Cornerstone(s): Despite giving up a career-high eight sacks last year, Bernhard Raimann is on the short list of the best left tackles in the league. His best work likely went unnoticed by most in 2025 since most of it came when the Colts' season went off the rails after Week 10. Quenton Nelson hasn't quite been able to match the level of dominance he showed during his first three NFL seasons, but he has still been very good and extremely durable.

Reason(s) for optimism: Tanor Bortolini wasted little time helping the Colts forget about losing Ryan Kelly last offseason, becoming a dominant run blocker even though he struggled a bit at the end of the year. Entering his age-24 season, it might not take long for him to join Raimann and Nelson above. Jalen Travis played well enough as a rookie in relief of an injured Braden Smith last year that he is more of a reason for optimism than a reason for concern.

Reason(s) for concern: If there is one area of concern for Indianapolis heading into the 2026 season (outside of whether Travis can hold up for a full season), it would be the depth that the Colts have lost over the last couple of seasons as players such as Bortolini, Matt Goncalves and Travis have stepped in to replace the likes of Kelly, Will Fries and Smith. Sparano obviously has an eye for identifying and molding talent, but that is a hard way to live year after year. For now, it looks like Indy could be in trouble if any of its starters miss significant time.

New Orleans Saints​

Offensive line coach: Brendan Nugent (second season with New Orleans)

Cornerstone(s): Kelvin Banks appears to be the real deal at left tackle. While his 46 pressures allowed is too high a number, it is not as if the Saints had much of a running game (or threats outside of Chris Olave in the passing game) to make pass rushers hesitate in 2025. Finishing No. 10 among all tackles in overall blocking grade as a rookie is a great sign.

Reason(s) for optimism: Ex-Buffalo Bill David Edwards should be a sizable upgrade on Dillon Radunz at left guard. Not only did Edwards prove his durability over his final two seasons in Buffalo, but he also only surrendered five sacks and four quarterback hits over that span. While his run blocking is nothing special, it is considerably better than Radunz's. Taliese Fuaga enters this season with no questions about right tackle being his long-term home. Expect him to be significantly better in his second full year there.

Reason(s) for concern: The concern isn't so much about Erik McCoy's ability as it is about his durability; he hasn't come close to finishing the season in four of the last five years. If the Saints are going to continue being a tempo offense (especially led by a young quarterback and considering Tyler Shough's injury history), they need to be able to count on their center being available. New Orleans lost its primary backup (Luke Fortner) in the offseason. Cesar Ruiz has shown some improvement as a pass protector over the last two seasons, but he is a league-average right guard at best. Don't be surprised if the coaching staff tries to create a competition between him and Radunz at various points throughout the season.

Chicago Bears​

Offensive line coach: Dan Roushar (second season with Chicago)

Cornerstone(s): Even for someone set to turn 34 years old right before Thanksgiving, Joe Thuney remains one of the best guards in the league - especially as a pass blocker.

Reason(s) for optimism: It would be a bit premature to consider Darnell Wright a cornerstone, but he is probably one year away from getting there. His run blocking is slightly ahead of his pass blocking, but he surrendered three sacks (down from six in 2024) and a meager 24 pressures (down from 30 in 2024 and 51 as a rookie in 2023) in 2025. His biggest issue: 12 penalties - more than the rest of the starting lineup combined. Jonah Jackson enjoyed arguably his finest season after a one-and-done with the Rams in 2024 and a middling four-year career with the Lions before that.

Reason(s) for concern: Ozzy Trapilo took over the starting left tackle gig in Week 12 and performed better than anyone could have hoped for from a rookie tackle prospect. Unfortunately, he could miss most of the 2026 season after he ruptured his patellar tendon in the playoffs. Chicago will likely turn to Braxton Jones in hopes that he can recapture his pre-2025 form. The Bears signed Drew Dalman in free agency last offseason with an eye on having him anchor the line for at least three or four years. His sudden retirement at age 27 adds short-term doubt to a line that appeared to be on the verge of becoming one of the best in the league. Going from him to Garrett Bradbury is a significant drop-off, although Chicago was wise to prioritize landing one of the best center prospects in the draft in Logan Jones.

New England Patriots​

Offensive line coach: Doug Marrone (second season with New England)

Cornerstone(s): N/A

Reason(s) for optimism: If for no other reason than how often he was beaten during the playoffs, Will Campbell cannot be considered a cornerstone quite yet. To be fair to him, he missed more than a month due to injury during the season and did not appear to be 100% healthy upon his return. Nevertheless, Campbell is almost certainly going to improve in Year 2. His durability issues notwithstanding. Alijah Vera-Tucker was a huge addition for this team in free agency. The team had little choice but to stick then-rookie Jared Wilson at left guard after he made his name at Georgia as a center. Expect both men to benefit from their new gigs (Vera-Tucker leaving the Jets and Wilson being back at his natural position).

Reason(s) for concern: Morgan Moses is coming off yet another fine season, which is no small thing considering he turned 35 in March. With that said, the end of his playing career is undoubtedly near. If he begins to feel his age in 2026, then the team's most recent first-round draft pick (Caleb Lomu) will likely be asked to replace him after playing all but 32 of his college snaps at Utah on the left side. Outside of Lomu, it is hard to get jazzed about the depth that the Patriots have on the offensive line.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers​

Offensive line coach: Kevin Carberry (third season with Tampa Bay)

Cornerstone(s): On an offensive line that could not stay healthy and an offense that greatly underperformed after a strong start, Tristan Wirfs continued to shine. He did so in a most unexpected way, however, finishing at No. 4 overall in run-blocking grade and No. 2 among left tackles. It was a huge change for Wirfs, who had been primarily a slightly above-average run blocker and dominant pass protector for the bulk of his first five years in the league.

Reason(s) for optimism: Luke Goedeke may not be a household name, but he is about as steady as they come at right tackle. Like most of the team's offensive line last year, he missed time due to injury (almost all of the first half of the season). However, he played up to his usual standards upon his return. Graham Barton was the only Buc lineman to come anywhere close to making it through the entire 2025 season, beginning the season at left tackle to fill in for Wirfs until he returned. Barton is a potentially elite center who just needs his teammates to stay healthy to get the grades he deserves. Cody Mauch's grade makes it look like he regressed in Year 3, but he tore the meniscus in his knee in Week 2 and did not play again. He appeared to be on his way to becoming a standout at right guard the year before. If he can get back to that point in 2026, the Bucs should be able to run the ball much better this year.

Reason(s) for concern: The biggest issue with Ben Bredeson - as opposed to the aforementioned Tampa Bay linemen - is that he has rarely ever been better than average through six NFL seasons. His pass protection is occasionally very good, but his run blocking has consistently been subpar. Justin Skule is back in Tampa Bay after a year in Minnesota and could theoretically take over at left guard if Bredeson can't pick things up. The Bucs also drafted Billy Schrauth in the fifth round to increase the competition, but there is little question that left guard is the weakest link on this line right now regardless.

Minnesota Vikings​

Offensive line coach: Keith Carter (first season with Minnesota)

Cornerstone(s): Christian Darrisaw's durability has become a question mark over the last two years, although both seasons have been shortened by the same left knee injury (the initial injury in 2024 and the slow healing of it in 2025). When he is right, Darrisaw is unquestionably a top-five left tackle in the league. Brian O'Neill also missed multiple games last year with a sprained MCL. There are few more complete right tackles in the NFL when he is 100%.

Reason(s) for optimism: Donovan Jackson's blocking grades were nothing special for a rookie, although part of the reason they weren't any higher likely had to do with how much time Darrisaw missed. As a highly regarded first-round draft pick in 2025 (and plenty of reason for that to be the case), expect a sizable jump in his grades at left guard in his second season.

Reason(s) for concern: The Vikings can't exactly write off Will Fries after one year, but it appears they might have fallen for the small-sample trap of his 268-snap 2024 season in which he graded out as an elite right guard with the Colts. His play fell back to his average career norms in 2025. It is fair to wonder if third-round pick Caleb Tiernan was drafted in part to push him in 2026. Blake Brandel's overall grades look reasonable for a center, but he performed well below that level in his six starts in the pivot a year ago. He could be fighting off Michael Jurgens for his starting spot throughout camp if he does not impress early.

Kansas City Chiefs​

Offensive line coach: Andy Heck (14th season with Kansas City)

Cornerstone(s): Following Jason Kelce's retirement a couple of seasons ago (and certainly after Drew Dalman's retirement this offseason), it is possible that Creed Humphrey does not have anyone close to challenging him as the league's best pivot. Heading into his age-27 season, there is a chance he will only widen that gap. Trey Smith wasn't able to play a full year for the first time in five NFL seasons, but he is also someone who is entrenched at right guard despite his up-and-down run blocking.

Reason(s) for optimism: The Chiefs quickly discovered Kingsley Suamataia was out of his element at left tackle during his rookie year. Considering he did not play a snap inside during his college career (and only 31 as a rookie in 2024), Kansas City had to be happy with him in his first full season at left guard. Coming off a devastating leg injury at the end of his college career in 2024, it was always going to be an uphill battle for Josh Simmons to be great as a rookie in 2025. His pass blocking appears to be pro-ready already, however, and one more year removed from his injury should allow him to be at least an average run blocker in 2026.

Reason(s) for concern:It was probably addition by subtraction when Kansas City parted ways with Jawaan Taylor, but that does not mean Jaylon Moore is much of an upgrade. His limited starts at right tackle were his first there since his rookie campaign in 2021, and they did not go particularly well. Mike Caliendo appears to have the trust of the coaching staff backing up all three interior positions, but the Chiefs could be in a world of hurt if Simmons and/or Moore miss time.

Atlanta Falcons​

Offensive line coach: Bill Callahan (first season with Atlanta)

Cornerstone(s): Chris Lindstrom has graded out as a top-10 run-blocker - across all positions - five years in a row. His pass blocking is not nearly at that level, but that is not enough of an issue to keep him out of the "best guards in the league" discussion. Along with Jake Matthews' superb pass-blocking skills, Atlanta boasts one of the best left sides in the league.

Reason(s) for optimism: Ryan Neuzil did not quite make the Falcons forget about Drew Dalman in his first full season as the starting center in 2025, but he more than held his own - especially as a run blocker. It is possible that his pass blocking takes a step in the right direction under the tutelage of Callahan, who is still generally recognized as one of the top o-line coaches in the league.

Reason(s) for concern: Atlanta is taking a big risk at right tackle for the second straight season. While Elijah Wilkinson was decent as Kaleb McGary's replacement last year, there is a reason he is no longer in town. Jawaan Taylor does not lack for talent, but his penchant for back-breaking penalties is no secret. Callahan may need to work his magic to make this work. There is also very little quality depth at any of the line positions, meaning the Falcons will again need some more of the good injury luck they have enjoyed over the last few years.

Las Vegas Raiders​

Offensive line coach: Rick Dennison (first season with Las Vegas)

Cornerstone(s): The Raiders' 2025 season was likely headed down a path of destruction regardless of who played, but it is at least somewhat telling that Las Vegas scored at least 20 points in three of Kolton Miller's four starts and only three more times the rest of the way. He has been a rock at left tackle for several dreadful offenses during his eight-year pro career. The Raiders overpaid to land Tyler Linderbaum, but it could be argued that no price is too much if it helps a potentially great young quarterback feel more at ease. At the very least, Linderbaum is a dominant force in the run game who should team up with Miller and open up exponentially more holes for Ashton Jeanty than he saw as a rookie.

Reason(s) for optimism: Jackson Powers-Johnson took a step back in his second year in 2025, although it didn't help that his season was cut short by a Week 10 injury. Playing next to Linderbaum should do wonders for him, however, as should the tutelage of Dennison, whose experience coaching offensive lines dates back to the Mike Shanahan era in Denver. This unit will be coached better and have significantly more talent on hand than it did last year.

Reason(s) for concern: Spencer Burford should have no problem fitting into the offense after playing the first four years of his career under Kyle Shanahan. His problem is that he hasn't proven that he is even league-average in the run or pass game. Glaze may lack the foot speed and athleticism to be a good fit in what figures to be an offense that leans heavily on outside zone runs. Charles Grant may be a better fit, but he logged only 59 snaps as a rookie last season.

Dallas Cowboys​

Offensive line coach: Conor Riley (second season with Dallas)

Cornerstone(s): Tyler Smith was drafted with an eye on being the successor to Tyron Smith, but his expected one-year stay at left guard went so well that he has stayed in that spot for the most part ever since. He still needs to work on pass protection, but his run blocking has been a strong suit since he entered the league in 2022. It may be a bit early to proclaim Tyler Booker as a cornerstone, but it is hard to knock what he did as a rookie after he was the No. 12 overall pick in 2025. He figures to be one of the more dominant run blockers in the league for the foreseeable future.

Reason(s) for optimism: Cooper Beebe has effectively made Dallas forget about the loss of Tyler Biadasz following the 2023 season. A high-ankle sprain sidelined him for a chunk of last year, but his arrow is pointing up. The Cowboys are probably in better shape than most when it comes to depth. Matt Hennessy has been a solid pivot for years, while T.J. Bass performed nicely at both guard spots when he was called upon in 2025.

Reason(s) for concern: The concerns for Dallas offensively begin and end at the tackle spots. Tyler Guyton improved in the run game in his second season but has not come close to living up to his status as the No. 29 overall pick in 2024. (He has also struggled to stay on the field.) Terence Steele has been a subpar pass blocker at right tackle for most of his six-year NFL career. The run blocking has been good enough to keep him in the lineup, but Dallas may need to strongly consider finding his replacement soon.

Carolina Panthers​

Offensive line coach: Joe Gilbert (third season with Carolina)

Cornerstone(s): Robert Hunt missed most of last season with a torn biceps, which makes it impossible to tell if the uncharacteristic blocking grades last year would have been reflective of what he could have done over a full season. As a result, the reputation he built in Miami allows him to get the nod here. When he is healthy, he has generally proven to be a very well-rounded lineman - almost regardless of how bad things are around him. Taylor Moton has been a rock at right tackle in Carolina for almost a decade. While his level of play is likely to decline as he enters his age-32 season, there is little reason to believe it will happen this year.

Reason(s) for optimism: Damien Lewis has proven to be a smart addition to the offensive line in Carolina, delivering consecutive seasons of Hunt-like grades after being mostly an average lineman with the Seahawks. The club spent a first-round pick on Monroe Freeling, who walks into a situation where he should be allowed to develop before taking over full-time at one of the tackle spots in 2027. At the start of the season, however, he will serve as high-quality depth, as will Chandler Zavala.

Reason(s) for concern: The timing of LT Ikem Ekwonu's injury (a ruptured patellar tendon during the playoffs) is a brutal blow for an offense that wants to run the ball as much as Carolina does. The Panthers did well to secure a veteran starter in Rasheed Walker, although part of the reason he was available had to do with his struggles as a run blocker. If that continues and Freeling needs some time to develop, it may be difficult for Carolina to run to the left side.

Los Angeles Chargers​

Offensive line coach: Butch Barry (first season with LA Chargers)

Cornerstone(s): Rashawn Slater and Joe Alt were drafted to be the cornerstones of this offensive line and have lived up to that expectation when they have been healthy. Of course, that did not happen in 2025, as Slater (ruptured left patellar tendon) was down for the year a month before the start of the season. Alt followed him to IR a few months later after multiple serious ankle injuries. The impact of those injuries probably cannot be overstated. Their presence alone probably doubles Justin Herbert's chances of staying healthy for a full season.

Reason(s) for optimism: The center spot has been a sore subject for the Chargers for some time. Tyler Biadasz may never be an All-Pro, but he should at least bring a kind of stability to the position that Bradley Bozeman could not. One other thing he has going for him that has been in short supply up front for the Chargers for years: durability. Depth is not necessarily a strong point for Los Angeles, but having the versatile Trey Pipkins around will help the Chargers get through a game if they suffer an injury to a starting guard or tackle.

Reason(s) for concern: Both guard spots. Cole Strange followed Barry and offensive coordinator Mike McDaniel from Miami after a season in which he took over the starting right guard spot about a month into the season. He has been a league-average performer at best since an encouraging rookie season in 2022. Jake Slaughter enters the league after proving he was pro-ready as a pass protector. He will be helped a great deal by playing between Slater and Biadasz, but he is still a rookie who could feel the pressure of playing in an offense with great expectations.

Buffalo Bills​

Offensive line coach: Pat Meyer (first season with Buffalo)

Cornerstone(s): Rinse and repeat: Dion Dawkins has been a fixture at left tackle in Buffalo for nine years; he has graded out well as a good pass blocker every season. He has also been exceptionally durable. Spencer Brown's pass blocking fell back to career norms after a banner 2024 campaign, but he has been a constant on the right side for Buffalo for five seasons and probably will be for many more.

Reason(s) for optimism: Connor McGovern has thrived in the pivot for Buffalo over the last two years after a sometimes rocky first four seasons in the league as a guard. He has not given up a sack in over two years and rarely even allows Josh Allen to get hit. The Bills added quality depth in Lloyd Cushenberry and Austin Corbett this spring.

Reason(s) for concern: Both guard spots. Alec Anderson enters his first season as a starter after David Edwards left as a free agent for the Saints. Anderson has not shown enough in part-time duty to make anyone believe he is a capable replacement - at least not yet. O'Cyrus Torrence was considered one of the best - if not the best - run-blocking guards in the 2023 NFL Draft. That has yet to manifest itself. Torrence's middling play has not affected this offense yet, but it becomes more of an issue if Anderson is exposed. Expect Corbett to see a fair amount of playing time if one or both struggle early.

New York Giants​

Offensive line coach: Mike Bloomgren (first season with NY Giants)

Cornerstone(s): When he is right, Andrew Thomas is about as good as it gets at left tackle. Unsurprisingly, durability has been a problem, as he has only come close to playing a full season once in six NFL seasons. The 2025 season may have been his best, however, giving up only one sack and 13 pressures on 448 pass block snaps.

Reason(s) for optimism: Francis Mauigoa was a highly regarded offensive tackle for the national championship runner-up Miami (Fla.) and made his name by being the lineman the Hurricanes typically ran behind when they needed a key first down. Although his 6-foot-6, 315-pound frame is better suited for remaining at tackle, the Giants showed their satisfaction with current right tackle Jermaine Eluemunor in early March by giving him a three-year extension. As a result, Mauigoa will likely spend the bulk of his early 20s playing next to him while also giving New York a strong option should Thomas and/or Eluemunor miss time.

Reason(s) for concern: It is just not happening for Jon Runyan; he has been an average run blocker and pass protector in each of the last three years after what appeared to be a mini-breakout with the Packers in 2022. It would not be at all surprising if the versatile Lucas Patrick or Daniel Faalele, who followed head coach John Harbaugh from Baltimore, steal some snaps from Runyan - if not take his job - in 2026.

Arizona Cardinals​

Offensive line coach: Justin Frye (second season with Arizona)

Cornerstone(s): Paris Johnson. He may not be an All-Pro left tackle, but he has been a rock-solid performer in consecutive seasons on an otherwise awful offensive line.

Reason(s) for optimism: It is hard to overstate how much of an upgrade Isaac Seumalo and rookie Chase Bisontis should be on Evan Brown and Isaiah Adams at left guard and right guard, respectively. Seumalo was the Steelers' best offensive lineman for the bulk of his three-year stay in Pittsburgh and a good starter for the Eagles before that. Bisontis was widely considered one of the best interior run blockers in the 2026 draft.

Reason(s) for concern: Right tackle has been a problem area for Arizona for several years and it figures to remain one again in 2026. Elijah Wilkinson is back for a second tour of duty in Arizona (2023) and has become a bit of a journeyman. He has been an adequate run blocker for some time, but he gets exposed in the passing game. The depth is better than it has been in recent years because so many players received playing time during last year's disastrous season, but there is no reserve available that figures to push for a starting gig anytime soon.

Detroit Lions​

Offensive line coach: Hank Fraley (seventh season with Detroit)

Cornerstone(s): If there is one linemen who is a good bet to not experience a drop-off as he moves from right tackle to left tackle, it is probably Penei Sewell. He is an unfair advantage in the running game and appears on the verge of being almost as good at keeping his quarterback upright..

Reason(s) for optimism: Blake Miller should be expected to struggle a bit in the early going, as is the expectation for most rookie linemen. The good news is that his pass blocking is considered a true strength. As for his current shortcomings as a run blocker, Jahmyr Gibbs can make up for some of those mistakes. Tate Ratledge appears to be a great fit in Detroit. His run blocking was good for most of the season, while his pass blocking improved markedly over the final 4-5 weeks of his rookie campaign.

Reason(s) for concern: Fraley has overseen some very good Detroit lines, so he is going to get the benefit of the doubt here. With that said, Cade Mays was only decent in Carolina last year in his first full year as a starter. However, he has yet to enter any season as a starter or play a full slate of games despite entering his age-27 season. Mays needs to justify the Lions' faith in him because all they have in reserve is Juice Scruggs, who disappointed across three seasons in Houston.

Pittsburgh Steelers​

Offensive line coach: James Campen (first season with Pittsburgh)

Cornerstone(s): Zach Frazier might be the most likely candidate to challenge Creed Humphrey for supremacy at the center position in the near future. He has yielded a single sack in each of his first two seasons and a total of 23 pressures over that same span. Just as important, Frazier has been very durable to this point as well.

Reason(s) for optimism: Mason McCormick enjoyed a significant Year 2 leap in 2025, playing some of his best ball down the stretch. While he is not particularly dominant in the run or pass game, the Steelers felt comfortable enough with him to let Isaac Seumalo walk in free agency and have him replace the vet on the left side of the line. Max Iheanachor has only played football for about five years, but he appears to be a natural at right tackle. His arrival allowed Pittsburgh to move Troy Fautanu to the left side, likely solving the left tackle issue that has been a problem for the Steelers for several years.

Reason(s) for concern: While it is not known at this time if Spencer Anderson and Gennings Dunker will battle it out for the right guard job in camp, there is little doubt that the winner of that potential battle will be the spot defenses will try to exploit the most. If Dunker wins, it would leave the Steelers with an all-rookie right side and an aging quarterback who cannot afford to take too many hits. If Anderson wins, Pittsburgh will rely on a player who has yet to play more than 387 snaps in any of his three NFL seasons.

Seattle Seahawks​

Offensive line coach: John Benton (second season with Seattle)

Cornerstone(s): Charles Cross still has room to improve, but he is deserving of cornerstone status now - even if his level of play stays about the same as it has the last two seasons. He was borderline dominant during the playoffs, which could signal he is about to take another step forward. Abraham Lucas finally stayed reasonably healthy for the first time since his rookie year (2022) and easily had his best season as a pro. He did his best work in the run game, which is a bit of a shock after entering the league playing in the Air Raid offense for most of his college career.

Reason(s) for optimism: Grey Zabel has a bright future and could join Cross and Lucas above as early as next season. The jump from North Dakota State to the NFL was not too big for him, although it wasn't until the second half of the season that he looked like the No. 18 overall pick. The Seahawks did not need his versatility in 2025, but he is capable of playing all five spots along the line.

Reason(s) for concern: Right guard. Anthony Bradford beat out Christian Haynes in camp and held on to the job all season long, although "held on" is a nice way of saying Seattle did not have a better alternative. The Seahawks appear comfortable with hoping for the best at this spot, spending only a fifth-round pick on Beau Stephens. Look for Stephens to get some quality playing time during the season at right guard if he shows anything during training camp.

New York Jets​

Offensive line coach: Steve Heiden (second season with NY Jets)

Cornerstone(s): Armand Membou was everything the Jets could have hoped for at right tackle as a rookie and more. The eight sacks he allowed are one of the few blemishes on his resume, but that is: a) not surprising for a rookie and b) actually a bit impressive that he didn't give up more considering how bad the Jets' offense was a year ago.

Reason(s) for optimism: Olu Fashanu has not quite been the quick study that Membou was, but he took a substantial leap forward as a pass blocker in 2025 despite getting charged with six sacks. It feels like it is only a matter of time before his skill and fundamentals catch up with his incredible athleticism. If the Jets allow Joe Tippmann to settle in at one position, he should end up being an above-average contributor as well.

Reason(s) for concern: Josh Myers continues to start and play a lot of snaps each season, but he is annually among the lowest-rated centers in the league. Worse yet, New York does not have many options behind him if he struggles or gets hurt (outside of moving Tippmann back there). Outside of the experience of Chukwuma Okorafor, the Jets have very little in the way of quality depth at any guard or tackle.

Baltimore Ravens​

Offensive line coach: Dwayne Ledford (first season with Baltimore)

Cornerstone(s): Ronnie Stanley remains a cornerstone, as has long been the case when he has been healthy. He will continue to get the benefit of doubt for now, although he could be on the decline at age 32. Then again, the Declan Doyle effect (from the Ben Johnson coaching tree) and a renewed emphasis on play-action could be just what the doctor ordered.

Reason(s) for optimism: Roger Rosengarten made significant strides as a run and pass blocker from his 2024 rookie season and appears to be the long-term answer on the right side. The Ravens desperately needed an interior lineman capable of mauling defenders in the run game after C Tyler Linderbaum bolted for Las Vegas in free agency and they likely got the best one in the draft in Olaivavega Ioane. He may not play the same position, but it would not be a surprise to see Derrick Henry running behind him more often than any other lineman in 2026.

Reason(s) for concern: While Baltimore should feel comfortable with Ioane inside, Danny Pinter has yet to play 300 snaps in any of his five NFL seasons. The drop-off from Linderbaum to Pinter in the pivot has a chance to be the nail in the coffin for this offense if the faith the team is putting in him is not rewarded. Andrew Vorhees brings plenty of experience at guard, but he has been a disappointment as a pro. In what will be a familiar theme in this two-part series, the Ravens cannot afford to lose any of their starters for any length of time.

Tennessee Titans​

Offensive line coach: Carmen Bricillo (first season with Tennessee)

Cornerstone(s): Not that anyone would have been able to notice on last year's shipwreck of an offense, but left guard Peter Skoronski began to deliver on the promise that made him the No. 11 overall selection in the 2023 draft. His pass blocking improved a bit over 2024, but where he made his biggest stride was in the run game. It would do wonders for his grades if he could get some above-average help on either side of him, but he can settle for being the anchor of this line for now.

Reason(s) for optimism: JC Latham moved back to his much more familiar right tackle spot in 2025 (after going from a college right tackle to a left tackle as a rookie) and showed some of the promise that Tennessee was hoping for when it made him the seventh overall pick in 2023. While he may never have the exceptional mobility needed to be an elite pass protector, there is a very good chance his run blocking will continue to be his calling card. Pat Coogan may have only been a sixth-round draft pick this spring, but he was too good for two national championship-level teams (2024 runner-up Notre Dame and 2025 champ Indiana) to believe he won't be the starter at center in short order.

Reason(s) for concern: Left tackle Dan Moore has been extremely durable throughout his five-year pro career, but the skill has yet to catch up to the athleticism. While the team can get out of the four-year, $82 million contract he signed last offseason relatively easily after this season, the deal essentially locks him into a starting gig for all of 2026. Coogan's expected rise would theoretically allow Austin Schlottmann to take over for Cordell Volson at right guard. Volson missed all of last season with a severe right shoulder injury, putting a difficult end to a tough four-year stay in Cincinnati. He has really struggled to be an effective pass protector and isn't good enough as a run blocker to make up for it.

Cincinnati Bengals​

Offensive line coach: Scott Peters (second season with Cincinnati)

Cornerstone(s): N/A

Reason(s) for optimism: Perhaps the best thing about the Bengals' offensive line heading into the 2026 season is continuity, as all five players will begin the year in the same spots they occupied for most of 2025. Amarius Mims improved his game substantially in his second year as a pro and appeared on the verge of becoming a dominant force late in the season. The addition of Dalton Risner was a gift from the football gods. While he is set to turn 31 in July, the combination of him and Mims gives Cincinnati some much-needed stability on the right side. Much like Mims, Dylan Fairchild played some of his best football late in the season. Peters noted last offseason that Fairchild reminded him of a young Wyatt Teller. He has a ways to go to prove his position coach right, but last year's third-round pick appears to be the long-term answer at left guard in Cincinnati either way.

Reason(s) for concern: Orlando Brown Jr. is not exactly a weakness, but he is coming off his worst season as a pro and has probably seen his best years pass him by. Worse yet, the Bengals will be in trouble if they lose either of their tackles for any length of time. (Their top reserve tackle is Cody Ford.)

Washington Commanders​

Offensive line coach: Darnell Stapleton (first season with Washington)

Cornerstone(s): Laremy Tunsil was acquired last offseason to solidify the blind side for Jayden Daneils for the foreseeable future and that is exactly what he did in 2025 until succumbing to a strained oblique late in the season. Age will start becoming a concern for him soon (he will turn 32 in early August), but it is comforting for Washington to know he has not allowed more than 23 pressures in a season since 2019. Sam Cosmi missed the first half of last season as he finalized his recovery from a torn ACL the previous year, but he hardly skipped a beat upon his return. He could eventually find himself among the top 10 or so guards in the league if he continues his upward trajectory.

Reason(s) for optimism: Josh Conerly endured the usual rough patches most rookie offensive linemen do, but the quality of his play picked up during the second half of the season. As a 22-year-old second-year player, he is a great bet to improve on the eight sacks he allowed and become a quality long-term starter at right tackle.

Reason(s) for concern: The Commanders need to figure out how to cover up their issues at left guard and center. Most of Nick Allegretti's 2025 campaign was a waste, as he did not play very much after Week 2 until Tyler Biadasz went down for the count on Christmas Day. Although he has played a bit in the pivot in his career, Allegretti has played most of his career at left guard, which means 2026 could be a bit rough for him. This season may be Chris Paul's last chance to establish himself as an NFL starter. Washington has several experienced options to push him if things go south for him quickly, but none of them are great alternatives. The worst part may be that Stapleton has limited experience coaching offensive lines, and all of it - as a lead position coach anyway - took place in college.

Jacksonville Jaguars​

Offensive line coach: Shaun Sarrett (second season with Jacksonville)

Cornerstone(s): N/A

Reason(s) for optimism: It is much too early to declare Cole Van Lanan a cornerstone, but it is probably not a coincidence that Jacksonville's surge came about the same time he became the regular left tackle. By the end of the season, he was arguably the team's best lineman. Second-round draft pick Emmanuel Pregnon should not need a lot of time to overtake Ezra Cleveland. His college tape revealed an experienced player who loves finishing defenders with the kind of attitude that challenges teammates to do likewise. Anton Harrison continues to show enough gradual improvement year after year to make the Jaguars believe he could be the long-term answer at right tackle.

Reason(s) for concern: Four-fifths of last year's line returns, which is typically a good thing. In this case, it is not that easy to say. Robert Hainsey is a league-average center at best and has no one of note capable of pushing him for the job. Patrick Mekari had arguably his worst season as a pro after being one of Jacksonville's most important free-agent signings last offseason. It is possible that neither of the likely projected Week 1 starters at guard will finish the season with the same title.

Houston Texans​

Offensive line coach: Cole Popovich (second season with Houston)

Cornerstone(s): N/A

Reason(s) for optimism: Aireontae Ersery did not grade out well enough to be considered a cornerstone yet, but he fared well enough as a rookie in 2025 to make Houston believe it has its long-term answer at left tackle. The Texans likely found their answer - albeit a short one - to the long-standing right tackle question with their signing of Braden Smith. Injuries and a serious mental health episode have kept him from playing all 17 games in each of the last three seasons, but he has long been one of the more underappreciated pillars of the Colts' offensive line. First-round pick Keylan Rutledge did not log a single snap at center in college, but he showed the capacity to do it during the draft process and has enough movement skills to be good at it. Athleticism and competitiveness are two of his strongest suits, which are good things for a center to have.

Reason(s) for concern: It wasn't long ago that Wyatt Teller was one of the best guards in the league. Following back-to-back uneven seasons with Cleveland, the 31-year-old may be looking at his last chance to remain a starter in the league. His run-blocking grades have fallen dramatically in recent years. Four of the five players expected to serve as depth saw significant snaps in 2025. The problem is that none of them graded out particularly well.

Cleveland Browns​

Offensive line coach: George Warhop (first season with Cleveland)

Cornerstone(s): N/A

Reason(s) for optimism: It is extremely rare for a team not to return a single offensive line starter from the previous season, but it makes sense in Cleveland's case. It will also help the Browns' cause to have a highly regarded o-line veteran like Warhop around after he followed new head coach Todd Monken from Baltimore. Spencer Fano was arguably the top offensive lineman available in the draft and is easily the most talented left tackle option the team has had since Joe Thomas retired. Teven Jenkins is the only holdover that logged significant time on this offensive line in 2025 and about the only Brown offensive lineman who could say that he had a decent season. (The problem for Cleveland was that he didn't move into the starting lineup until Week 14. Durability has been an issue for him in each of his five NFL seasons, however.) Elgton Jenkins is a small upgrade in the pivot over Ethan Pocic; his ability to play any position across the line could/should also come in handy at some point, even if he is entering the backside of his career at age 30.

Reason(s) for concern: For whatever reason, it still has not quite come together yet for Zion Johnson. He has enough talent to continue starting in the league in hopes that he can reach his ceiling, but he was an average NFL guard for the Chargers over his first four NFL seasons. Tytus Howard has typically graded out well when he was given a chance to stick at right tackle for any length of time in Houston, but the problem was that he was rarely ever allowed to do that. He should get that chance with the Browns. His biggest problem: he has been a poor run blocker for most of his career and finds himself on a team that will want to pound the rock more than most teams.

Green Bay Packers​

Offensive line coach: Luke Butkus (fifth season with Green Bay)

Cornerstone(s): Zach Tom remains one of the best right tackles that very few people have even heard of. He missed some time due to injury in 2025 but has been Green Bay's best lineman almost from the day he was selected in the fourth round of the 2022 draft.

Reason(s) for optimism: There is a small chance that letting Jordan Morgan play his college position (left tackle) will enable him to play to the level the Packers expected when they took him in the first round in 2024. It is a stretch to believe this will happen, but it is about the only thing Green Bay can be optimistic about outside of Tom.

Reason(s) for concern: All three interior linemen. Josh Jacobs may have fallen off as a runner last season, but he wasn't getting much help from Aaron Banks, Elgton Jenkins or Sean Rhyan (at right guard) either. Jenkins bolted for Cleveland and Rhyan is moving to center, while Anthony Belton slides in at right guard. Green Bay didn't do much to address the line in the offseason and does not have much for quality depth either, which could mean the Packers could be headed for disaster if the position changes (Morgan and Rhyan) don't make much of a difference.

Miami Dolphins​

Offensive line coach: Zach Yenser (first season with Miami)

Cornerstone(s): N/A

Reason(s) for optimism: Aaron Brewer is making a strong case to be considered a cornerstone with his play over the last two years. PFF graded him ahead of Creed Humphrey as the best run-blocking pivot in the league last year. While his pass blocking is a little bit behind his run blocking, it is easy to understand why it would be difficult for a 6-foot-1, 274-pound center to anchor against the behemoths on the defensive line he faces each week. Kadyn Proctor spent his three-year college career at Alabama playing almost exclusively at left tackle. At 6-foot-7 and 366 pounds, the Dolphins are likely making a wise choice to start his NFL career at left guard.

Reason(s) for concern: Jonah Savaiinaea's rookie season was nothing short of a unmitigated disaster. Only Mekhi Becton was given a lower run-blocking grade among full-time guards, while Savaiinaea's pass protection was even more dreadful. While rookies are expected to struggle, this kind of struggle was so bad that the Dolphins might only be giving him another chance because he was selected in the second round a year ago. Miami did well to land Jamaree Salyer in fee agency. If Savaiinaea can improve in a big way in 2026, the Dolphins should be in good hands for depth purposes due to Salyer's versatility. If Salyer is forced to start and the team suffers even one major injury up front, the first year of the rebuild in Miami could be harder to watch than most observers already expect.


This article originally appeared on The Huddle: Projecting and ranking every NFL offensive line for 2026

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