Eagles’ Lane Johnson Tops NFL Tackle Rankings
Philadelphia’s Right Tackle Voted Best in the League
In a significant preseason survey, veteran right tackle Lane Johnson of the Philadelphia Eagles has been recognized as the NFL’s premier offensive lineman at his position. His performance anchored one of the league’s top offensive lines, contributing to the Eagles’ recent Super Bowl victory.
A Near-Perfect Season
Johnson, a six-time Pro Bowl selection and two-time All-Pro honoree, did not allow a single sack during the 2024 season. This impressive feat highlights his continued dominance as he enters the 2025 NFL campaign.
Tackle Titans Vie for Top Spot
A panel of eight Associated Press Pro Football Writers cast their votes, ranking the top five offensive tackles based on their current standing. Johnson secured three first-place votes, narrowly edging out teammate Jordan Mailata, who also received three top nods. Other notable tackles receiving first-place votes included Penei Sewell and Trent Williams.
The Top Five Revealed
Following Johnson in the rankings was Mailata, who finished second. Tristan Wirfs claimed the third spot, with Sewell and Williams rounding out the top five. Players like Rashawn Slater, Laremy Tunsil, and Dion Dawkins also garnered votes.
Lane Johnson: A Right Tackle Legend
Since being drafted fourth overall in 2013, Johnson has solidified his status as one of the greatest right tackles in NFL history. He was instrumental in creating running lanes for Saquon Barkley‘s record-breaking season and provided crucial protection for quarterback Jalen Hurts, proving to be a formidable force and a key leader for the Eagles.
Jordan Mailata’s Remarkable Rise
Jordan Mailata‘s journey is a testament to development and dedication. Drafted as an Australian rugby player in the seventh round of the 2018 draft, Mailata had no prior American football experience. Under the tutelage of offensive line coach Jeff Stoutland, he has transformed into one of the game’s elite left tackles. Despite being a Pro Bowl snub in 2024, Mailata earned second-team All-Pro honors, receiving one second-place vote, one third, and one fifth, in addition to his three first-place selections.
Wirfs Makes History
Tristan Wirfs, who transitioned from right to left tackle in 2023, achieved a historic milestone by becoming the first player to be named an All-Pro at both tackle positions. He earned the distinction at right tackle in 2021 and replicated the feat on the left side last season. Wirfs was the cornerstone of Tampa Bay’s offensive line, which ranked fourth in rushing last season.
Sewell and Williams Round Out the Elite
Penei Sewell, despite what some analysts called a down year in pass protection, was voted first-team All-Pro over Johnson last season. He excelled as a run protector, allowing pressure on just 4.7% of pass plays, according to Pro Football Focus. Sewell, a three-time Pro Bowl pick and two-time All-Pro, received two second-place votes, four fourths, and one fifth, along with his single first-place vote. Trent Williams, while dealing with injuries last season, remains one of the league’s premier left tackles. An 11-time Pro Bowl selection and three-time All-Pro prior to missing seven games, he garnered one third-place vote, two fourths, and one fifth, in addition to his first-place vote.
The talent at the offensive tackle position continues to impress, with numerous players showcasing elite performance. The dedication and skill displayed by these athletes are crucial for team success throughout the NFL season. For instance, in 2023, the Detroit Lions’ offensive line, featuring Penei Sewell, helped pave the way for an average of 135.2 rushing yards per game, contributing to their success (NFL.com, 2024).
