Once quarterback Josh Allen dropped back from the shotgun snap during a pivotal moment in the AFC championship game, chaos ensued for the Buffalo Bills. With the team recently taking the lead against the Kansas City Chiefs, Allen found himself retreating to the 14-yard line, where he assessed the incoming pressure and attempted to scramble to the right as two defenders closed in. Chris Jones, the standout of the Chiefs’ formidable defensive line, executed a strip-sack, representing a critical play for the Bills.
In just a few frantic moments, Bills left guard David Edwards was outmatched by Jones, who demonstrated why he has earned a first-team All-Pro designation for three consecutive years. Utilizing a straightforward bull rush, Jones overpowered Edwards from his defensive tackle position, effectively collapsing the pocket around Allen. Added pressure came from defensive end George Karlaftis, who pushed right tackle Spencer Brown backward, forcing Allen into a precarious position as he tried to escape. Karlaftis skillfully dodged the block to help bring down Allen, while Jones struck high to knock the ball loose.
This season, creating pressure up the middle has emerged as one of the most effective strategies for disrupting offensive plays in the NFL. Former offensive lineman and current analyst Brian Baldinger commented, “It provides the most direct route to the quarterback. With the evolution of the quarterback position, players are capable of extending plays or running themselves, which compels defenses to adapt their rush techniques.” Baldinger emphasized that an interior collapse makes it significantly more challenging for quarterbacks.
As Super Bowl 59 approaches, the outcome between Kansas City and Philadelphia may heavily depend on each team’s ability to safeguard the interior against the powerful pass rush from the opposing side. The Eagles, featuring Pro Bowl standout Jalen Carter, boast three of the top eight and four of the top 22 interior pass rushers in the league, as noted by Pro Football Focus. Jones himself secured the top overall rating for interior defenders this season and was recognized as the premier pass rusher in his category, per independent evaluations.
Baldinger further praised Jones’s agility, noting, “For such a large player, he possesses surprisingly nimble feet. His enormous size is complemented by exceptional handwork, enabling him to evade engages effectively. He consistently inches closer to the quarterback while pressuring from the edge.” Jones seems to have a knack for seizing crucial moments in games.
Historically, the left tackle position has been paramount for protecting a right-handed quarterback’s blind side, and with the growing talent pool of edge rushers, finding a reliable right tackle to fend off dominant competitors has become equally essential. Salary data shows there are currently 32 tackles across the NFL with contracts averaging $10 million or more annually.
However, guards and centers are gaining valuation in the salary department as well. Presently, there are 20 guards and six centers enjoying contracts with an average yearly value exceeding $10 million. The Philadelphia Eagles’ Landon Dickerson leads this charge, while Creed Humphrey of the Kansas City Chiefs is the highest-paid center in the league.
The Super Bowl will showcase an array of elite interior blockers, bolstered by the guidance of respected veteran offensive line coaches such as Andy Heck in Kansas City and Jeff Stoutland in Philadelphia. Both coaches have lengthy tenures in their respective teams, with Heck marking his 12th season and Stoutland his 41st season of coaching overall.
In the Chiefs’ lineup, Humphrey and Joe Thuney, who recently transitioned back to left tackle, represent two first-team All-Pros. Trey Smith, a Pro Bowl pick, will soon become a sought-after free agent at just 25 years of age. Depending on D.J. Scary’s health for the left tackle position, Thuney might revert to his natural position.
For the Eagles, Dickerson earned his third consecutive Pro Bowl selection, with center Cam Jurgens receiving his first honor after stepping in for the retired veteran Jason Kelce. Right guard Mekhi Becton was a first-round draft pick in 2020 who successfully adapted to his new role after signing with Philadelphia. Due to injuries, Dickerson had to start at center during the NFC championship game, showcasing the resilience among these players.
“It’s commendable how these players endure pain and play through it,” Eagles head coach Nick Sirianni shared, highlighting the unseen difficulties that offensive linemen face over a long season.
As the challenges within the league grow, the job of blocking has become increasingly difficult. Aaron Donald revolutionized the defensive tackle role during his 10-season career, and with his retirement, Jones has stepped up to fill the void as a preeminent interior pass rusher. The responsibility for guards and centers now extends beyond merely countering elite players; they also contend with numerous teams shifting edge defenders inward on passing downs.
As teams aim for an advantageous matchup, the evolving game dynamics continually demand adaptations. “The players we face are larger and maintain remarkable speed and agility,” noted Vikings right guard Dalton Risner. “Football is a constantly changing sport; everyone is on the lookout for an edge.”
Teams that neglect their interior protection may pay the price; the Minnesota Vikings are a recent example of this, with their struggles in interior pass protection leading to substantial defeats, showcasing the importance of effective line play for sustained success.
The Chiefs and Eagles have thrived in this regard, showcasing their ability to mitigate such issues. “It’s all about pressures and sacks, the statistics we focus on,” Sirianni emphasized. “But I admire offensive linemen for their unwavering dedication to protecting others; they embody selflessness.”
