For the first time ever, the NFL will honor the best offensive lineman in the league with the Protector of the Year Award, and as I speculated nine months ago, the Chicago Bears do indeed have a legitimate candidate for the award.
Earlier today, ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler broke the news of the six nominees for the award, and Bears left guard Joe Thuney made the list.
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The other nominees for the Protector of the Year Award are Denver Broncos tackle Garett Bolles, Broncos guard Quinn Meinerz, Miami Dolphins center Aaron Brewer, Kansas City Chiefs center Creed Humphrey, and Detroit Lions tackle Penei Sewell.
This year, Thuney made his fourth consecutive Pro Bowl and his third consecutive First Team All-Pro. He also has two other Second Team All-Pros on his resume.
The Protector of the Year Award winner will be announced on February 5 at NFL Honors and will be selected by a panel of former offensive linemen guided by this criteria.
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Skill Metrics: pass-block win rate, run-block win rate, penalties allowed, sacks allowed, helmet contact
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Impact: contribution to the team’s offensive success (e.g., total rushing yards, QB protection stats)
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Leadership: display of leadership, teamwork, and consistency on and off the field
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Durability: minimum number of snaps, games played
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Strength of Opponent: Success vs. high-performing defenders
Thuney’s impact on the 2025 Bears was massive, and he had high marks in all of the above, so while the other nominees are incredible football players, I would not be surprised if Thuney took home the honor.
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