While media and fans alike center their focus on the skill positions like the fastest running back or quarterback with the biggest arm, true fans of the game know that contests are won at the line of scrimmage. You can have your wide receivers that run sub 4.5-second forty’s because there is no way those speedster even get the ball without the contributions of the mammoths of the gridiron: the offensive linemen. Of these titans of the tundra, the protectors of pass, the clearers of the rushing lanes, it is the offensive tackles that stand out; and make the most money. So in this free agency period, many teams will targets the largest lumberers on the market, but which ones?
Branden Albert, Kansas City Chiefs
Odd-spelling aside, Albert is the be-all end-all option at the tackle position during the upcoming franchise feeding frenzy. An above average run-blocker and elite pass protector, Albert will bring in top dollar from whichever protection-needy team bequeathes its wad of cash to the veteran tackle.
Jordan Gross, Carolina Panthers
No spring chicken, this free agent tackle represents a quick fix to whichever team needs a plug and play tackle before its “championship window” closes. The eight overall pick from the 2003 draft has been a staple of the Panthers’ offensive line for a decade making the pro bowl three times and was named a first team all-pro in 2008.
Jared Veldheer, Oakland Raiders
Former Oakland Raiders’ left tackle Jared Veldheer is far from a household name, though that designation may or may not be found on this list outside of the subject of a movie. The rock on the left side of the Raiders’ offensive line missed most of 2013 due to a triceps injury, but at 26 years of age could be a long-term solution to pass protection problems. While reports indicate Veldheer wants to return to Oakland, there is no doubt the right price could make the big man in silver and black consider a wardrobe change.
Anthony Collins, Cincinnati Bengals
Perhaps the least-known name on this list, Collins was an absolute monster in pass protection in 2013. Rated first in pass protection by pro football focus, Collins did not allow a sack in his six games as a starter and more than filled the void left on Cincinatti’s offensive line when Andrew Whitworth moved inside to the guard position. At 28 years old, Collins should draw above-average attention and financial security during the free agency period.
Michael Oher, Baltimore Ravens
Leave Sandra Bullock out of this, Michael Oher has only himself to blame after a sub-par 2013 that saw the talented rushing duo of Ray Rice and Bernard Pierce combine for the 30th ranked ball-carrying offense in the NFL. Oher was a large part of this tremendous shortcoming, and lack of interest from the Ravens in resigning him is a tell-tale sign of the ire directed at Oher. Expect the former Ravens’ tackle to be protecting someone else’s Blind Side in 2014.
Eugene Monroe, Baltimore Ravens
The other Ravens’ starting-tackle on this list, Monroe arrived in Baltimore at last season’s trade deadline as a result of Bryant McKinnie ‘s love for a certain adult entertainer named “Sweet-Pea”. Sweet-Pea was not so sweet as it turned out, and reportedly hit Ravens’ wide out Jacoby Jones over the head with a champagne bottle. All hilarity aside, Monroe is an above-average pass blocker and should find a new home and new money during the upcoming free agency period, should the Ravens elect to let the strength of their offensive line walk; an unlikely scenario.