NFL unveils new award: Protector of the Year

Field Level MediaField Level Media|published: Wed 21st May, 13:37 2025
Buffalo Bills Dion Dawkins blocks for quarterback Josh Allen, behind him, who sneaks in for a touchdown during first half action at the Buffalo Bills divisional game against the Baltimore Ravens at Highmark Stadium in Orchard Park on Jan. 19, 2025.Buffalo Bills Dion Dawkins blocks for quarterback Josh Allen, behind him, who sneaks in for a touchdown during first half action at the Buffalo Bills divisional game against the Baltimore Ravens at Highmark Stadium in Orchard Park on Jan. 19, 2025.

The NFL on Wednesday announced a new end-of-year annual honor that will be awarded to the league's best offensive lineman, called Protector of the Year.

NFL executive Troy Vincent announced the award and credited Buffalo Bills four-time Pro Bowl lineman Dion Dawkins and retired two-time All-Pro Andrew Whitworth for pushing the idea.


"Recognize the big fellas," Vincent said Wednesday at the NFL owners meetings in Eagan, Minn.

The winner will be decided by a panel that includes a number of former greats who played on the offensive line, Vincent said.

--Field Level Media


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