Detroit Lions' star offensive tackle, Penei Sewell, has achieved a new milestone in his career, securing a nomination for the NFL's inaugural 'Protector of the Year Award.' This prestigious honor aims to acknowledge the league's most outstanding offensive linemen, highlighting their critical role in protecting their team's offense. For Lions fans, this recognition reaffirms Sewell's elite status, as he continues to establish himself as a cornerstone of the team's offensive line. His consistent, high-level performance underscores his importance to the franchise's aspirations, particularly as they strive for Super Bowl contention. This nomination not only celebrates individual excellence but also reinforces the Lions' commitment to building a formidable presence in the trenches.
Sewell Honored with Inaugural NFL Protector of the Year Nomination
In a significant announcement on Thursday, January 29, 2026, Detroit Lions' formidable right tackle, Penei Sewell, was officially named a nominee for the NFL's newly minted 'Protector of the Year Award.' This esteemed accolade, as reported by ESPN's Jeremy Fowler, is designed to commend the league's top offensive linemen for their exceptional contributions to offensive protection. Sewell, at just 25 years old and entering his prime, has consistently demonstrated his prowess on the field, establishing himself as a benchmark for offensive tackle play. In the 2025 season, his performance was nothing short of extraordinary, earning him an overall grade of 95.2, placing him first among all tackles. His run-blocking grade of 96.8 was the best in the NFL, while his pass-blocking grade of 80.3 ranked him among the top 11 tackles. These statistics underscore his comprehensive dominance across all facets of line play.
The full roster of nominees for this inaugural award includes other prominent figures in the league: Garett Bolles of the Broncos, Aaron Brewer of the Dolphins, Creed Humphrey of the Chiefs, Quinn Meinerz of the Broncos, and Joe Thuney of the Bears. Sewell's inclusion among such a distinguished group speaks volumes about his impact. Since his selection as the seventh overall pick in the 2021 NFL Draft, Sewell has rapidly ascended to become the linchpin of Detroit's offensive strategy. He has already accumulated multiple Pro Bowl and All-Pro selections, solidifying his reputation as one of football's most dominant linemen. This nomination for the 'Protector of the Year Award' presents him with the opportunity to be the first player in NFL history to receive an honor specifically crafted to recognize elite offensive protection, a testament to his exceptional skill and consistency.
The Unseen Heroes: Celebrating Offensive Line Dominance
The creation of the 'Protector of the Year Award' marks a pivotal moment in the NFL, finally bringing much-deserved recognition to the often-unsung heroes of the game: offensive linemen. For too long, the intricate art of protecting the quarterback and opening running lanes has been overshadowed by the flashier plays of skill position players. Penei Sewell's nomination for this inaugural award is more than just a personal achievement; it's a symbolic victory for every player in the trenches who dedicates themselves to the arduous, often thankless, task of controlling the line of scrimmage. It highlights the profound impact these athletes have on a team's success, demonstrating that true offensive power begins with a solid foundation upfront. This award will undoubtedly inspire future generations of linemen, encouraging them to strive for excellence in a role that is fundamental to every victory.