Ranking The Top 138 Interior Offensive Linemen From a Mathematical Perspective

After examining who the numbers thought were the top offensive tackles in the NFL, it’s time to do the same, but this time, on the interior. Although it’s a more replaceable position than offensive tackle, interior offensive linemen generate on average the same amount of Wins Above Replacement as tackles, per Pro Football Focus, and avoiding interior pressure is obviously critical- it’s paramount that teams avoid weak links.

To rank these players, here are the three metrics used, courtesy of Pro Football Focus. Obviously, there are fewer statistics available to help us evaluate offensive line production than other positions:

  • Pro Football Focus’ pass-blocking grade allows them to evaluate offensive linemen, grading them on a scale from -2 to 2 on each passing play.
  • Pro Football Focus’ run-blocking grade accomplishes the same objective, but for running plays.
  • Pass Blocking Efficiency gives us the ability to look at how efficient an offensive lineman is based on the pressure they allow on a per snap basis. Sacks are weighted more heavily.

Relying on Pro Football Focus’ grades, which are more stable metrics, as well as emphasizing an offensive lineman’s abilities in pass protection, here is the formula used to give players an overall grade. Furthermore, each of the 105 qualifiers was given a percentile rank in each statistic, with rookies being assigned a projected statistic based on prior evaluation:

(.62xPB)+(.34xRB)+(.04xPBE)

Now, let’s see who the numbers believe are the top 138 interior offensive linemen in the NFL!

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zackmartin
Photo Cred: BlueandGold

#1: Zack Martin, Dallas Cowboys (Overall Grade: 96.88)

The Cowboys have a lot of talented players, but in my opinion, their best player is undoubtedly Zack Martin. Since being drafted in the first round, he’s had six straight seasons with a pass-block grade above 84, while he’s also been an elite run blocker. He’s simply incredible, and remains one of Jerry Jones’ best draft picks.

#2: Quenton Nelson, Indianapolis Colts (Overall Grade: 96.1)

He’s not known for his pass blocking, yet Quenton Nelson still ranks in the 95th percentile in that regard. Considering that he’s a 100th percentile run blocker with exceptional highlight-reel blocks, that’s impressive. Still just 24-years-old, he figures to anchor the Colts’ offensive line for a long time, and may actually be the face of their franchise.

#3: Brandon Brooks, Philadelphia Eagles (Overall Grade: 94.8)

Despite not receiving the recognition he deserves, Brandon Brooks has been a dominant pass blocker for his entire eight-year career. However, he really took his game to another level last season, as he earned a 91.4 run-block grade, and thus was the highest-graded interior offensive lineman (92.9) from Pro Football Focus.

#4: Richie Incognito, Las Vegas Raiders (Overall Grade: 94.08)

Off-the-field concerns have always plagued Richie Incognito, but when he’s been on the field, he’s consistently been one of the top guards in the NFL. After coming back from retirement, he actually received a career-high 88.5 pass-block grade last season, and will look to keep it going despite his advanced age (36-years-old).

#5: Joe Thuney, New England Patriots (Overall Grade: 92.18)

The Patriots franchise-tagged Joe Thuney, which kept him from being a free agent. That’s unfortunate him for him, as had he made it to the open market, he could’ve reset the interior offensive line market. He’s had back-to-back seasons with a borderline elite pass-block grade, and in a zone-blocking scheme, he’d thrive as an agile run blocker. Assuming New England doesn’t extend him, he’ll be in line for a massive payday this offseason.

#6: Brandon Linder, Jacksonville Jaguars (Overall Grade: 90.36)

Even as the Jaguars have crumbled, they have the top center in the NFL. Brandon Linder isn’t elite in any particular category, but he ranks as a 90th percentile pass blocker and run blocker, and has been super consistent since his rookie season in 2014. Honestly, he’s probably the best player on Jacksonville’s roster, and it may not even be close.

#7: Rodney Hudson, Las Vegas Raiders (Overall Grade: 89.8)

Rodney Hudson isn’t a dominant run blocker, but that doesn’t prevent him from being a top-tier interior player. His consistency as a pass blocker is absurd, as he’s never earned a pass-block grade below 82.5 in his career, and in his five seasons of the Raiders, he has had a pass-block grade of 89.8 or higher. He was merely an average run blocker last season, which hurt his overall grade, yet he and Incognito are two exceptional veteran linemen that’ll protect Derek Carr from any interior pressure.

#8: Ben Jones, Tennessee Titans (Overall Grade: 89.8)

The Titans ran the ball extremely effectively last season, and a lot of the credit has been given to running back Derrick Henry. In actuality, however, the running game was predicated on an offensive line that dominated down the stretch, and Ben Jones anchored that group. He’s always been a solid player, but the 30-year-old took it to another level last season, and is a well-above-average pass protector and run blocker.

#9: Joel Bitonio, Cleveland Browns (Overall Grade: 89.7)

Although the Browns have been a very dysfunctional organization, and their offensive line was much worse last season, Joel Bitonio has been a rock for them since being drafted in the second round in 2014. He’s not a great run blocker, but his pass-blocking abilities are fantastic, and as a former offensive tackle, he’s a super agile player. He’s going to have a lot of success in new head coach Kevin Stefanski’s zone-blocking offense.

#10: Jason Kelce, Philadelphia Eagles (Overall Grade: 89.36)

The most well-known center in the NFL, Jason Kelce has been the leader of one of the league’s best offensive lines for a long time. Yet, not only does it look like he’s been slightly overrated, but he may be starting to regress. Although he was fantastic in 2018, he’s had a pass-block grade of 76 or lower in five of the past six seasons, including a 67.6 pass-block grade this past season. There are rumors that he could be contemplating retirement, and although he’s still a top-ten interior offensive lineman currently, Philadelphia needs to be searching for his long-term replacement.

#11: Erik McCoy, New Orleans Saints (Overall Grade: 88.8)

It’s very rare for an interior offensive lineman to succeed right away, let alone a center drafted outside of the first round. Erik McCoy appears to be the exception to that rule, however. Not only did he rank in the 85th percentile in pass protection and 95th percentile run blocking, but he only had one game where he earned an overall grade below 62, and held his own against plenty of talented interior defenders. I’m very excited to see if the 22-year-old can continue to be productive and can be the lead player on New Orleans’ interior offensive line for years to come.

#12: Alex Mack, Atlanta Falcons (Overall Grade: 88.2)

Shifting back to a veteran center, Alex Mack has been one of the top interior offensive linemen for a long time. Not once in his 11-year career has he had a pass-block grade below 75, and even at 34-years-old, hasn’t shown any signs of slowing down. Obviously, you’re always concerned about someone at his age continuing to perform at a high level, but the Falcons are counting on him.

#13: Kevin Zeitler, New York Giants (Overall Grade: 88.1)

Dave Gettleman has made plenty of puzzling moves as the general manager of the Giants, but one of his best decisions was to trade edge rusher Olivier Vernon for guard Kevin Zeitler. Whereas Vernon has been a very inconsistent pass rusher, Zeitler has been a very reliable player throughout his career. Even though his pass-block grade (75) was the worst it’s been since 2013, a new offensive scheme could help him, while his track record as an elite pass protector suggests he’ll bounce back in that regard.

#14: JC Tretter, Cleveland Browns (Overall Grade: 88)

JC Tretter has a lot on his plate, as he’s the president of the president of the Players Association. Meanwhile, he also will be tasked being the pilot for a revamped offensive line, though I’m not worried about him in that regard at all. The 29-year-old was a role player for the Packers, and upon getting his chance in Cleveland, he’s thrived with three straight seasons with a pass-block grade of 80.4 or higher. Between him and Bitonio, Baker Mayfield shouldn’t have to wonder about a lot of interior pressure this season.

#15: Brandon Scherff, Washington Redskins (Overall Grade: 86.7)

Brandon Scherff has failed to play a full season in each of the past three seasons, so now, he’ll have to prove himself on the franchise tag for a Redskins offensive line that has been depleted in recent years. Still, he’s been an above-average pass blocker and run blocker throughout his career, and although the franchise tag was pricey, retaining him was probably the right move in order to support Dwayne Haskins.

#16: Ali Marpet, Tampa Bay Buccaneers (Overall Grade: 86)

The Bucs haven’t even been scared to look towards a smaller school to find a young offensive lineman, and that may be due to the development success of Ali Marpet. Drafted in the second round after Hobart, he’s really developed as a pass protector, and although he hasn’t been as exceptional as a run blocker, he’s still in the 70th percentile in that regard.

#17: David DeCastro, Pittsburgh Steelers (Overall Grade: 85.7)

The Steelers offensive line was once dominant, and at its peak, David DeCastro was easily one of the top interior offensive linemen in the NFL. However, his run blocking has regressed tremendously, and although his pass blocking is still terrific, it isn’t enough to lift him above the players ahead of him, who are great pass protectors AND run blockers.

#18: Ryan Jensen, Tampa Bay Buccaneers (Overall Grade: 84.9)

In the first season of his four-year, $42 million contract, Ryan Jensen was a disappointment, earning just a 55.7 overall grade. Luckily for Tampa, he bounced back in a major way in 2019, improving his grade by nearly 20 points in both pass protection and run blocking. Which Jensen are we going to get in 2020? That remains somewhat of a mystery, yet Tom Brady has to be desperately hoping it’s the 2019 version.

#19: Corey Linsley, Green Bay Packers (Overall Grade: 84.6)

The main reason why JC Tretter never got a chance to shine in Green Bay was Corey Linsley, who has never had a pass-block grade below 70. Ranking in the 85th percentile as both a pass protector and run blocker, he’s one of the most balanced interior offensive linemen in the NFL.

#20: Shaq Mason, New England Patriots (Overall Grade: 84.5)

You should never write off a rookie offensive lineman, as even if they struggled, they usually hit their stride in their second or third season. After receiving a 37.7 pass-block grade in his rookie year, he’s immediately responded with four straight seasons with a pass-block grade above 70 and three years with an overall grade above 81.5. Still just 26-years-old and under contract through 2023, he’s one of the few building blocks on New England’s offense.

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Photo Cred: NFL Spin Zone

#21: Rodger Saffold, Tennessee Titans (Overall Grade: 82.4)

When he was with the Rams, Rodger Saffold was internal part of a zone-blocking offense, and he’s continued to be successful in a similar offense in Tennessee. Although he started off slow last season, the 31-year-old had a pass-block grade of 79.4 higher in each game between Weeks 12 and 17, and was also excellent in the playoffs.

#22: Mitch Morse, Buffalo Bills (Overall Grade: 80.3)

Durability concerns and a lack of domination of a run blocker have caused Mitch Morse to go under the radar, but you don’t have to worry about interior pressure with him at center. He’s established himself as one of the more reliable pass protecting centers, and Buffalo should be glad to have him under contract for the next three seasons.

#23: Elgton Jenkins, Green Bay Packers (Overall Grade: 78.3)

The 2019 draft was a very lucky one for teams who drafted an interior offensive lineman outside the first round, as not only did Erik McCoy find plenty of success with the Saints, but Elgton Jenkins also played well. His game-to-game consistency left a bit to be desired, though he still was a sturdy pass protector and run blocker. Even better, he has the flexibility to play center if he’s needed to.

#24: Andrew Norwell, Jacksonville Jaguars (Overall Grade: 77.6)

A 92.3 pass-block season in 2017 earned Andrew Norwell a massive five-year, $66.5 million contract from the Jaguars, and although he’s regressed in his first two seasons with the team, he’s still been an above-average player for them. The 28-year-old is still rated as an 85th percentile pass blocker, so he and Linder should continue to anchor Jacksonville’s interior offensive line, regardless of who is under center.

#25: Ryan Kelly, Indianapolis Colts (Overall Grade: 77.4)

Although Quenton Nelson is the star player on the Colts’ offensive line, he’s far from their only standout player. He’s a major reason why Indianapolis has had a lot of success running the football, and he’s also more than capable as a pass blocker. Add in that he’s a center, and the 26-year-old is clearly in line for a new contract soon.

#26: Graham Glasgow, Denver Broncos (Overall Grade: 76.8)

The Broncos were a very active team in free agency, but their best value signing may’ve been Graham Glasgow, who they inked to a four-year, $44 million contract. Despite the fact that he didn’t get a lot of recognition in Detroit, he’s been a top-notch run blocker, and has matched that with more than adequate pass protection.

#27: Larry Warford, Free Agent (Overall Grade: 75.9)

Larry Warford was cut loose by the Saints last week, as they wanted to save $7 million in cap space. Yet, it’s clear that the 28-year-old was undervalued by the team. He’s consistently been a terrific pass blocker, was much better as a run blocker this season, and more than lived up to the $34 million contract he signed with New Orleans. Considering how many teams needed help on the offensive line, I wouldn’t expect him to be on the open market for long, as his $7 million asking price is more than reasonable.

#28: Chase Roullier, Washington Redskins (Overall Grade: 74.9)

If you just looked at Chase Roullier’s overall grades from Pro Football Focus, then you’d probably be underwhelmed- he’s never received an overall grade of 70 or higher. However, that just has to do with his limitations as a run blocker, as he’s earned a pass-block grade above 70 in each of the first three seasons of his career. If all goes well, his progress as a run blocker will remain intact next season. If not, though, he has a very high floor as someone who can handle interior pass rushers.

#29: Nick Martin, Houston Texans (Overall Grade: 73)

Nick Martin is the exact same story as Roullier. His 65.5 overall grade was highest from this past season, but he ranks in the 90th percentile in pass protection, and thus should be worth the three-year, $33 million contract extension he signed with the Texans prior to last season.

#30: Gabe Jackson, Las Vegas Raiders (Overall Grade: 73)

With three top-30 interior offensive linemen, it’s clear the Raiders have made it an emphasis to load their offensive trenches with absolute maulers. Gabe Jackson has been rumored to be a potential cap casualty, and his decline in run blocking may be a reason why. However, he’s been one of the more consistent pass blockers through his six-year career, and he should be a part of Las Vegas’ plans moving forward.

#31: Andrew Wylie, Kansas City Chiefs (Overall Grade: 72.6)

Unfortunately for him, Andrew Wylie couldn’t be a part of the Chiefs’ Super Bowl run due to an ankle injury. Still, he definitely played a role in getting them in position to succeed in the playoffs. A former undrafted free agent, he’s played over 700 snaps in each of his first two season and fits the mold of an Andy Reid-style interior offensive lineman who is pass-blocking-oriented. Kansas City’s ability to churn out impact players on the offensive line has been super impressive.

#32: Patrick Mekari, Baltimore Ravens (Overall Grade: 70.8)

Since the offensive line is so critical in their dynamic power rushing scheme, the Ravens looked like they could be in trouble when their starting center, Matt Skura, went down with an injury. However, they lucked out in a major way; undrafted rookie Patrick Mekari stepped in and was a 90th percentile run blocker. Now that Marshal Yanda has retired, it’d be smart for Baltimore to give him a starting spot.

#33: James Daniels, Chicago Bears (Overall Grade: 70.2)

Iowa offensive linemen have had a great track record of succeeding in the NFL, and James Daniels has lived up to that billing. Drafted in the second round, he’s been a 70th percentile pass blocker and run blocker. Perhaps most intriguingly, he was stellar when he moved back to guard last season, so he may be even better than his overall statistics would suggest.

#34: Daniel Kilgore, Free Agent (Overall Grade: 70.1)

One of the more unknown interior offensive linemen, Daniel Kilgore is a smaller player who has dealt with injuries, but he’s a solid pass protector. Frankly, I’m surprised he hasn’t been signed yet, as he’d be a major upgrade for a lot of teams- he has the ability to play center.

#35: Cody Whitehair, Chicago Bears (Overall Grade: 69.4)

The reason why the Bears were able to move Daniels back to guard is that they have a very capable center in Cody Whitehair. The 27-year-old’s inconsistency is very frustrating, but he’s had multiple seasons with tremendous pass-blocking production, while he’s been a solid run blocker. Hopefully, Chicago will get the better version of him in 2020.

#36: Laken Tomlinson, San Francisco 49ers (Overall Grade: 67.1)

The 49ers were able to acquire Laken Tomlinson for a fifth-round pick prior to the 2017 season, and it’s safe to say that it’s paid off for them. Not only has he continued to be a solid pass blocker, but he’s also improved drastically as a run blocker; he’s become the best interior offensive lineman for Kyle Shanahan’s offense.

#37: Austin Reiter, Kansas City Chiefs (Overall Grade: 66.56)

To succeed as an interior offensive lineman in Andy Reid’s offense, you don’t have to be a mauler in the run game, yet you have to be athletic and strong in pass protection. The Chiefs let Mitch Morse leave in free agency, and Austin Reiter was able to fill in magnificently. His 82 pass-block grade ranked in the 90th percentile, and he rarely allowed any pressure on Patrick Mahomes.

#38: Joe Dahl, Detroit Lions (Overall Grade: 65.7)

Joe Dahl was a role player for the first three years of his career, but the Lions gave him a chance to start last season, and he didn’t look back. He was average in the run game, yet he ranked as a 75th percentile pass blocker, and ended the season strong before missing the final three games due to ankle injury. With Graham Glasgow leaving in free agency, he now appears to be Detroit’s bets interior offensive lineman.

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NFL: Denver Broncos-Minicamp
Photo Cred: Broncos Wire

#39: Frank Ragnow, Detroit Lions (Overall Grade: 64.2)

The Lions surprised many when they took Frank Ragnow in the first round of the 2018 draft, and after struggling in his rookie season, the decision to select him looked even more questionable. However, he improved in pass protection, and has established himself as a mauler in the running game- he’s definitely a player on the rise.

#40: Jon Feliciano, Buffalo Bills (Overall Grade: 63.6)

Jon Feliciano was expected to be the weak-link of the Bills’ offensive line, yet instead, he ended up having a very respectable season. He graded out as an above-average pass blocker and run blocker, and likely did enough to secure himself a starting spot for this season.

#41: Stefen Wisniewski, Pittsburgh Steelers (Overall Grade: 63.5)

With Ramon Foster retiring and the whole offensive line getting older, the Steelers were in desperate need of some reinforcements on the offensive trenches. Luckily for them, they were able to steal Stefen Wisniewski on a two-year deal that barely pays him over $1 million annually, which is just absurd. His 2018 season wasn’t great, but outside of that, he’s been an excellent pass protector, and fills a major need for Pittsburgh. Signing him was a savvy move that could pay huge dividends for a team gearing up for a playoff run.

#42: Isaac Seumalo, Philadelphia Eagles (Overall Grade: 62.1)

Similarly to Feliciano, Isaac Seumalo looked like the sore thumb on a stacked offensive line for the Eagles, but he more than proved himself last season. In his first season as a full-time starter, he was a reliable pass blocker and was tremendous in opening up running lanes. Considering he improved as the season went on, it’s safe to say he’s a very capable starter.

#43: Dalton Risner, Denver Broncos (Overall Grade: 61.6)

As someone who could play guard, center, or tackle, Dalton Risner was a player who could’ve gone in the first round in the 2019 draft, yet fell to the Broncos in the second round. In his first season, the 24-year-old wasn’t a great run blocker and had some lapses in pass protection. Nevertheless, a 69.8 pass-block grade in his rookie season provides plenty of optimism for him moving forward.

#44: Greg Van Roten, New York Jets (Overall Grade: 59.2)

The Jets completely remade their offensive line this offseason, and the addition that may pay the most dividends is Greg Van Roten. Sure, he’s a below-average run blocker, but his skills in pass blocking will be a major boost an a weak offensive line.

#45: Connor McGovern, New York Jets (Overall Grade: 59.1)

Offensive line breakouts are always a scary sight, as it’s hard to know if they’re legitimate or not. Therefore, the best way to assess Connor McGovern is to look at the entire sample size of his production. He was a liability in 2018, yet somehow more than double his pass-block grade (82.5) in 2019. It’s very possible that he simply realized his potential under the tutelage of a great offensive line coach in Mike Munchak, though he wouldn’t be the first Bronco center to have a breakout season, sign elsewhere in free agency, and then regress.

#46: Trai Turner, Los Angeles Chargers (Overall Grade: 58.9)

When the Panthers traded Trai Turner to the Chargers, many acted like they were trading an elite player, as the 26-year-old has made multiple Pro Bowls. Rather, they traded a solid starter who just had his worst season in 2019, which looks far less egregious. He’s a nice addition for a team that had no serviceable players on their offensive line, however, and will be a terrific addition if he gets back to his peak form.

#47: Michael Schofield, Carolina Panthers (Overall Grade: 58.8)

For just $1.5 million, the Panthers were able to replace Turner with a player who projects very similarly to him. Although Michael Schofield isn’t going to be a mauler in the run game, he’s an 80th percentile pass protector, and was the best player on the Chargers offensive line last season. He’s a fantastic signing at such a cheap price.

#48: Lane Taylor, Green Bay Packers (Overall Grade: 58.4)

Lane Taylor missed most of the 2019 season with a biceps injury, and will compete for a starting spot against Billy Turner. However, that should be a job hat he easily wins. In the three seasons prior to 2019, he was an above-average pass blocker, and even has the flexibility to fill in at tackle if needed to.

#49: Netane Muti, Denver Broncos (Overall Grade: 58.3)

Injury concerns dropped him to the sixth round of the draft, but there’s still no doubt in my mind that Netane Muti was the best interior offensive lineman in the 2020 draft. Still just 21-years-old, he’s a super powerful guard who is reliable in the run game and pass game, and I wouldn’t be shocked if he started immediately for the Broncos.

#50: Matt Skura, Baltimore Ravens (Overall Grade: 58.2)

Outside of the Chiefs, no team is more resourceful when searching for offensive linemen than the Ravens. Matt Skura was an undrafted free agent in 2016, yet here he is, starting for the best rushing attack in the NFL. The 27-year-old isn’t a standout player by any means, but he’s a very capable center for them.

#51: Zach Fulton, Houston Texans (Overall Grade: 57.7)

With back-to-back seasons with an overall grade below 55.5, it may seem like Zach Fulton has been a disappointment since signing a four-year, $28 million deal with the Texans. Yet, that conclusion would be made without understanding the whole picture. Fulton may rank in the 10th percentile as a run blocker, but Houston knew that when they signed him. As long as he continues to be a earn pass-block grades in the high 70s, there’s no reason why he shouldn’t continue to be counted on as a starter.

#52: BJ Finney, Seattle Seahawks (Overall Grade: 57.4)

A role player for the Steelers, BJ Finney has performed well in pass protection when he was called upon, and now, will be asked to start on the interior for the Seahawks. I think he’ll hold up fine in that regard, but if not, he’s a nice depth player to have with the ability to play guard, center, and tackle

#53: Ronald Leary, Free Agent (Overall Grade: 57)

Ronald Leary is in a similar boat as Fulton; his run blocking has declined, yet he’s still a productive pass blocker. He’s dealt with injuries in back-to-back seasons, though he’s had a pass-block grade above 73 in four of the past five seasons, and should be signed as a starter for a team in need of help on the interior.

#54: Nick Harris, Cleveland Browns (Overall Grade: 56.9)

Similarly to Muti, I’m not going to let Nick Harris’ fall to the fifth round sway me from thinking he’s a starting center in the NFL. He does need to add some play strength, but he’s a super athletic player built to play in a zone-blocking scheme, which he’ll have the chance to do for the Browns.

#55: Ereck Flowers, Miami Dolphins (Overall Grade: 56.6)

A former first-round bust as an offensive tackle with the Giants, Ereck Flowers has re-established himself as a decent interior offensive lineman. Now, some of that has been overblown, as he’s still a relatively average pass blocker, which makes the $10 million per year he’s getting paid by the Dolphins a little too much. At the very least, he improved drastically down the stretch last season, earning a pass-block grade of 69.8 or higher in each of the final eight games of the season- he could actually be much better than his overall numbers would suggest.

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Photo Cred: NBC Sports

#56: Weston Richburg, San Francisco 49ers (Overall Grade: 56.1)

Richburg’s durability has always been a concern, and surprisingly, his run blocking is below-average in Kyle Shanahan’s offense. However, he was a solid pass blocker last season, and remains the 49ers’ starting center heading into this season.

#57: Quinton Spain, Buffalo Bills (Overall Grade: 56.1)

His run blocking isn’t adequate at all (20th percentile), but Quinton Spain has consistently been an excellent pass blocker. The Bills were smart to sign him to a $15 million extension.

#58: Robert Hunt, Miami Dolphins (Overall Grade: 56.05)

Although the Dolphin drafted tackle Austin Jackson in the first round, Robert Hunt is clearly the best player they drafted to shore up the offensive trenches. He was announced as a tackle, but I expect him to play on the interior, where his power and skills in pass protection will shine.

#59: Trey Hopkins, Cincinnati Bengals (Overall Grade: 56)

The Bengals need to be better up front with their run blocking, yet it’s the ability to defend against interior rushers that is most important as they look to protect #1 overall pick Joe Burrow. Trey Hopkins is an under-the-radar player due to his issues in the running game, yet the 27-year-old center has been an above-average pass protector in each of the past three seasons.

#60: Wyatt Teller, Cleveland Browns (Overall Grade 55.7)

#61: Ryan Kalil, Free Agent (Overall Grade: 55.6)

#62: Max Scharping, Houston Texans (Overall Grade: 55.3)

Scharping was expected to be a tackle at the next level, yet Houston moved him inside after drafting him in the second, and he delivered with a 75th percentile rank in pass protection. Now, he needs to simple get adjusted to the physicality of the trenches and improve as a run blocker.

#63: Will Hernandez, New York Giants (Overall Grade: 55.3)

Despite being seen as an absolute mauler, Will Hernandez is actually a below-average run blocker. Rather, he’s made a name for himself as a pass blocker, as he’s held up well there in back-to-back seasons.

#64: Mark Glowinski, Indianapolis Colts (Overall Grade; 54.9)

Glowinski is a powerful player who was excellent for the Colts in 2018, but took a major step back last season, especially in pass protection. He’ll need to bounce back in 2020, or the Colts will need to look for his replacement to shore up what is otherwise an elite offensive line.

#65: Ben Garland, San Francisco 49ers (Overall Grade: 54.6)

#66: AQ Shipley, Free Agent (Overall Grade: 54)

#67: Cesar Ruiz, New Orleans Saints (Overall Grade: 53.5)

A surprise pick by the Saints in the first round, Cesar Ruiz has big shoes to fill in his rookie season as the replacement for Larry Warford. His athleticism, balance, and pass-blocking ability make me believe he can be a long-term starter for them, as he projects as a very similar player to James Daniels. Then again, he’s not the strongest of players, and could struggle out of the gate.

#68: DJ Fluker, Baltimore Ravens (Overall Grade: 53.1)

#69: Laurent Duvernay-Tardif, Kansas City Chiefs (Overall Grade: 53)

#70: Matt Paradis, Carolina Panthers (Overall Grade: 52.9)

In the first four seasons of his career, Matt Paradis was one of the top centers in the NFL. Therefore, when the Panthers signed him to a three-year deal worth $27 million, it looked like an absolute steal. Yet, all hell broke loose in 2019, as he became a liability in pass protection (43.8 pass-block grade), which is extremely confusing given his previous track record of success. I’m not ready to discount the 30-year-old just yet, though he undoubtedly needs to be better this season.

#71: Chris Lindstrom, Atlanta Falcons (Overall Grade: 52.8)

Lindstrom, the 14th overall pick in the 2019 draft, was limited to just five games due to an injury. All together, he was an average player all around, which is fine for a rookie offensive lineman. I’m expecting a second-year breakout for him, and wouldn’t be shocked if he’s even in the top-30 on this list next season.

#72: Jonah Jackson, Detroit Lions (Overall Grade: 52.5)

Although he isn’t a flashy player, nor an impact run blocker, Jonah Jackson was probably the safest interior offensive lineman in the 2020 draft. There’s no doubt in my mind that he’ll be an above-average pass blocker from day one, and he’ll need to fill in for the Lions as the replacement for the departed Graham Glasgow.

#73: Mike Person, Free Agent (Overall Grade: 52.2)

#74: Justin Pugh, Arizona Cardinals (Overall Grade: 51.7)

He struggled with injuries in 2017 and 2018, but Justin Pugh has always been a productive pass blocker, and he thrived in Kliff Kingsbury’s offensive scheme last season- he had a career-best 82.2 pass-block grade. That grade would’ve been even higher had he not had to move to tackle for two games, though it’s still somewhat noteworthy he struggled in those two injury-shortened seasons.

#75: Hjalte Froholdt, New England Patriots (Overall Grade: 51.61)

David Andrews is progressing in returning from blood cots, though if anything goes poorly, New England has a versatile offensive lineman in Hjalte Froholdt. He’s not a great run blocker, yet his pass blocking was excellent at Arkansas, and the 23-year-old will push for a larger role in his second season.

#76: Will Clapp, New Orleans Saints (Overall Grade: 51.6)

#77: Matt Hennessy, Atlanta Falcons (Overall Grade: 51)

Since he needs to add more muscle mass and strength, Matt Hennessy isn’t someone who will likely challenge for playing time right away. That’s fine, however, as Atlanta likely took him in the third round to be the successor at the center position for Alex Mack, and his movement skills are off-the-charts.

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Photo Cred: Pittsburgh Post-Gazette

#78: Spencer Pulley, New York Giants (Overall Grade: 49.9)

#79: Josh Kline, Free Agent (Overall Grade: 48.8)

#80: Ted Karras, Miami Dolphins (Overall Grade: 47.7)

#81: Maurkice Pouncey, Pittsburgh Steelers (Overall Grade: 47.5)

While he hasn’t been as productive of a player as he gets credit for being, Maurkice Pouncey has generally been a very talented pass blocker. That was far from the case last season, however, as he was an all-around below-average player. He’ll need to bounce back in 2020, and Pittsburgh might need to start searching for his replacement.

#82: Brian Winters, New York Jets (Overall Grade: 46)

#83: Austin Corbett, Los Angeles Rams (Overall Grade: 45)

#84: Connor Williams, Dallas Cowboys (Overall Grade: 44.7)

#85: Connor McGovern, Dallas Cowboys (Overall Grade: 44.6)

With Connor Williams not being able to be a reliable starting interior player, the Cowboys could look to replace him with Connor McGovern, though he could also start for them at center. He’s a solid all-around player, but he doesn’t have any standout skills.

#86: Calvin Throckmorton, New Orleans Saints (Overall Grade: 44.5)

Throckmorton went undrafted in the 2020 draft, as his athletic limitations are severe. However, a player with his power and technique, as well as the ability to play any position on the offensive trenches, definitely should’ve been drafted- he may be the latest undrafted offensive line to emerge as a solid player.

#87: Logan Stenberg, Detroit Lions (Overall Grade: 44.4)

As an absolute bulldozer with an extremely nasty demeanor, it was easy to like Logan Stenberg as a prospect in this past draft. He needs to improve his technique, yet should be an eventual starter on Detroit’s offensive line.

#88: Tyler Biadasz, Dallas Cowboys (Overall Grade: 44.35)

Even with the medical red flags, trading up for Tyler Biadasz was an easy decision for the Cowboys. They need a long-term starter at the center position, and they may have gotten their replacement for Travis Frederick in the fourth round.

#89: Ben Bredeson, Baltimore Ravens (Overall Grade: 44.32)

He plays too high and isn’t very athletic, but Ben Bredeson should fit in perfectly with the Ravens. He’s a powerful player who is very skilled in pass protection, so it wouldn’t shock me if he was an immediate starter for them.

#90: Denzelle Good, Las Vegas Raiders (Overall Grade: 44.3)

#91: Wes Schweitzer, Washington Redskins (Overall Grade: 43.4)

#92: Joseph Noteboom, Los Angeles Rams (Overall Grade: 43.2)

#93: Alex Cappa, Tampa Bay Buccaneers (Overall Grade: 41.9)

The Bucs have an absolutely stacked offense, yet they still have one small hole on the interior of their offensive line. Alex Cappa only ranked in the 30th percentile as a pass blocker last year, which could be problematic for Tom Brady.

#94: Billy Turner, Green Bay Packers (Overall Grade: 41.5)

#95: Bradley Bozeman, Baltimore Ravens (Overall Grade: 41.2)

#96: David Edwards, Los Angeles Rams (Overall Grade: 41.1)

#97: Mike Pouncey, Los Angeles Chargers (Overall Grade: 40.6)

Just like his brother, Mike Pouncey has at times been a reliable pass protector, but may no longer be a trustworthy option. Not only has he dealt with multiple injuries in recent years, but he also wasn’t a very good player when healthy in 2018, so he’s kind of a wildcard for a Chargers team that really needs help in the offensive trenches.

TIER 6

Pittsburgh Steelers v New York Jets
Photo Cred: The Jet Press

#98: John Miller, Carolina Panthers (Overall Grade: 40)

#99: Austin Schlottman, Denver Broncos (Overall Grade: 40)

#100: Mike Iupati, Seattle Seahawks (Overall Grade: 39.5)

#101: Xavier Su’a-Filo, Cincinatti Bengals (Overall Grade: 39.5)

#102: JR Sweezy, Arizona Cardinals (Overall Grade: 39.4)

#103: Justin Britt, Free Agent (Overall Grade: 38.6)

#104: Daryl Williams, Buffalo Bills (Overall Grade: 37.7)

If he sticks on the interior, this ranking is appropriate for Daryl Williams. At right tackle, however, he’s an above-average starter, and that’s where the Bills should have him compete for a starting spot.

#105: Joey Hunt, Seattle Seahawks (Overall Grade: 37.4)

#106: Kenny Wiggins, Detroit Lions (Overall Grade: 36.6)

#107: Alex Lewis, New York Jets (Overall Grade: 35.6)

#108: Brian Allen, Los Angeles Rams (Overall Grade: 34.6)

#109: Scott Quessenberry, Los Angeles Chargers (Overall Grade: 34.5)

#110: Austin Blythe, Los Angeles Rams (Overall Grade: 33.4)

Blythe appeared to break out in 2018 on the interior of the Rams offensive line, but he reverted back to being a below-average player in 2019. He’s not someone that I believe they can count on going into this season.

#111: Jon Halapio, New York Giants (Overall Grade: 31.4)

#112: Kelechi Osemele, Free Agent (Overall Grade: 31.2)

#113: Evan Boehm, Buffalo Bills (Overall Grade: 31)

#114: Jamil Douglas, Tennessee Titans (Overall Grade: 30.4)

#115: Jamon Brown, Atlanta Falcons (Overall Grade: 30)

#116: Eric Kush, Las Vegas Raiders (Overall Grade: 29.8)

#117: Pat Elflein, Minnesota Vikings (Overall Grade: 29.8)

#118: AJ Cann, Jacksonville Jaguars (Overall Grade: 29.8)

TIER 7

jea 2574 Vikings vs Oakland
Photo Cred: Pioneer Press

#119: Garrett Bradbury, Minnesota Vikings (Overall Grade: 29.5)

After making him the 18th overall pick in the 2019 draft, the Vikings immediately thrust Garrett Bradbury into a starting role, and it’s safe to say things didn’t go as planned. The 24-year-old had his moments, but he also has some very poor low-lights, as he had multiple games with a pass-block grade of 0.0 and an overall pass-block grade of just 41.4

#120: Earl Watford, Free Agent (Overall Grade: 28.2)

#121: Jonotthan Harrison, New York Jets (Overall Grade: 27.8)

#122: Rashaad Coward, Chicago Bears (Overall Grade: 27.8)

#123: Tom Compton, San Francisco 49ers (Overall Grade: 26.4)

#124: James Carpenter, Atlanta Falcons (Overall Grade: 26.2)

#125: Mason Cole, Arizona Cardinals (Overall Grade: 24.4)

#126: Nick Easton, New Orleans Saints (Overall Grade: 24.2)

#127: Michael Jordan, Cincinatti Bengals (Overall Grade: 22.4)

#128: Jamarco Jones, Seattle Seahawks (Overall Grade: 20.6)

#129: Wes Martin, Washington Redskins (Overall Grade: 20.2)

#130: Dan Feeney, Los Angeles Chargers (Overall Grade: 19.6)

#131: Billy Price, Cincinatti Bengals (Overall Grade: 17.6)

The Bengals drafted Billy Price in the first round in 2018, and in his rookie season, he showed some signs of progress with a 66 pass-block grade. However, the Bengals didn’t give him a starting spot right away, and moved to guard this season. To be frank, it didn’t go well; he received a 24.1 pass-block grade, and is trending quickly to becoming a bust.

#132: Andrus Peat, New Orleans Saints (Overall Grade: 17.4)

At the beginning of his career, Andrus Peat was a decent player. However, he got hurt in the 2017 playoffs, and since then, and has simply been a very poor player. He’s been a sub-50 grade player in back-to-back seasons, has continued to deal with injuries, and is not only the worse player on the Saints offensive line, but is one of the worst interior offensive linemen in the NFL. The fact that New Orleans gave him a $57.5 million extension, while Larry Warford was cut loose, is baffling.

#133: Martinas Rankin, Kansas City Chiefs (Overall Grade: 16.2)

#134: Dakota Dozier, Minnesota Vikings (Overall Grade: 13.4)

#135: Deion Calhoun, Miami Dolphins (Overall Grade: 10.8)

#136: Nate Davis, Tennessee Titans (Overall Grade: 10.4)

Davis started his rookie season off terribly, which probably should’ve been expected for a third-round pick out of Charlotte. At the very least, though, he improved throughout the season, and will compete with first-round pick Isaiah Wilson for a starting spot on the interior.

#137: Michael Deiter, Miami Dolphins (Overall Grade: 10.4)

#138: Will Richardson Jr., Jacksonville Jaguars (Overall Grade: 10)

 

 

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