Full Breakdown
Penei Sewell Nominated for Inaugural NFL Protector of the Year Award
1/30/2026, 7:20:59 AM
Overview of the Protector of the Year Award
The NFL is set to honor its top offensive lineman for the first time with the Protector of the Year Award, which will be presented during the NFL Honors ceremony on February 5, 2026. This award aims to spotlight the critical yet often overlooked role of offensive linemen in the league. The finalists for this inaugural award include six players: Penei Sewell (Detroit Lions), Garett Bolles (Denver Broncos), Quinn Meinerz (Denver Broncos), Aaron Brewer (Miami Dolphins), Creed Humphrey (Kansas City Chiefs), and Joe Thuney (Chicago Bears). The winner will be determined by a panel of former NFL offensive linemen based on criteria such as skill metrics, impact, leadership, durability, and strength of opponent.
Penei Sewell's Accomplishments
Penei Sewell, the right tackle for the Detroit Lions, has been recognized as a finalist for the Protector of the Year Award following an impressive season. Despite the Lions finishing with a disappointing 9-8 record and missing the playoffs, Sewell's individual performance stood out. He has been named a First-Team All-Pro for three consecutive years and has made four straight Pro Bowl selections since being drafted seventh overall in 2021. Sewell's Pro Football Focus (PFF) grade of 95.5 for the 2025 season ranks him as one of the top offensive linemen in the league, with exceptional run-blocking and pass-blocking metrics.
Performance Evaluation
Sewell's performance in 2025, while he described it as not his best, still showcased his resilience and skill. He allowed only two sacks and six quarterback hits across 601 pass-blocking snaps, contributing significantly to the Lions' offensive line. His run-blocking grade of 96.8 was among the highest in the league, further solidifying his reputation as a top-tier offensive lineman. Despite the Lions' struggles, Sewell's consistent performance earned him recognition from PFF as their Protector of the Year.
Criticism and Challenges
While Sewell's accolades are noteworthy, he has acknowledged that the Lions' offensive line faced challenges in 2025, including injuries and the departure of key players. He expressed concern over the team's performance and emphasized the need for improvement moving forward. Sewell's candid self-assessment reflects a commitment to leadership and accountability within the unit, as he aims to help restore the offensive line's effectiveness in the upcoming season.
Other Finalists and Their Impact
The other finalists for the Protector of the Year Award include notable players such as Garett Bolles and Quinn Meinerz from the Denver Broncos, who contributed to a strong offensive line that helped the team reach the AFC Championship Game. Aaron Brewer of the Miami Dolphins and Creed Humphrey of the Kansas City Chiefs also had standout seasons, showcasing the depth of talent among this year's nominees. Joe Thuney, a veteran guard for the Chicago Bears, played a pivotal role in transforming his team's offensive line.
Conclusion and What's Next
The announcement of the Protector of the Year Award winner will take place during the NFL Honors ceremony, coinciding with Super Bowl festivities. For Sewell, winning this award would not only mark a personal achievement but also highlight the importance of offensive linemen in the NFL. As the Lions prepare for the offseason, Sewell's leadership will be crucial in addressing the challenges faced by the offensive line and setting a positive trajectory for the team's future.
