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Your Definitive Guide To The NFL's Top-Performing Left Tackles

Trends January 11, 2025

Who are the best NFL left tackles?

In the NFL, the left tackle is responsible for protecting the quarterback's blind side. They are typically the best pass-blocking tackles on the team and are also responsible for run blocking. The best left tackles in the NFL are among the most important players on their teams.

Some of the best left tackles in the NFL today include:
. Tristan Wirfs (Tampa Bay Buccaneers)
. Laremy Tunsil (Houston Texans)
. Ronnie Stanley (Baltimore Ravens)
. David Bakhtiari (Green Bay Packers)
. Terron Armstead (New Orleans Saints)

These players are all Pro Bowlers and have been recognized for their outstanding play. They are all key members of their respective teams and play a vital role in their success.

Left tackles are some of the most important players in football. They protect the quarterback, who is the most important player on the field. Without a good left tackle, the quarterback is at risk of being injured or sacked, which can lead to turnovers and losses.

The best left tackles in the NFL are among the highest-paid players on their teams. They are also some of the most respected players in the game. They are leaders on their teams and are often looked up to by their teammates.

Best NFL Left Tackles

Left tackles are some of the most important players in football. They protect the quarterback's blind side, which is crucial to the team's success. The best left tackles in the NFL are among the most skilled and athletic players in the game.

Athleticism: Left tackles need to be strong, fast, and agile in order to protect the quarterback.
Technique: Left tackles need to have excellent technique in order to block effectively.
Intelligence: Left tackles need to be intelligent in order to read the defense and make the right adjustments.
Leadership: Left tackles are often leaders on their teams, both on and off the field.
Experience: The best left tackles have a lot of experience playing at a high level.
Consistency: The best left tackles are able to perform at a high level on a consistent basis.
Versatility: The best left tackles are able to play multiple positions along the offensive line.
Durability: The best left tackles are able to stay healthy and play through injuries.

These are just some of the key aspects that make up the best NFL left tackles. These players are essential to their teams' success, and they are among the most respected players in the game.

1. Athleticism

Left tackles are responsible for protecting the quarterback's blind side, which is crucial to the team's success. In order to do this effectively, left tackles need to be strong, fast, and agile.

Strength is important for left tackles because they need to be able to hold their ground against opposing defensive linemen. Speed is important for left tackles because they need to be able to get to their blocking assignments quickly. Agility is important for left tackles because they need to be able to change direction quickly to block different types of defenders.

All of these athletic traits are essential for left tackles to be successful. Without strength, speed, and agility, left tackles would not be able to protect the quarterback effectively, which would put the team at a significant disadvantage.

Here are some examples of how athleticism has helped left tackles to be successful in the NFL:

Trent Williams is one of the best left tackles in the NFL. He is known for his strength, speed, and agility. Williams has been named to the Pro Bowl eight times and has been selected as an All-Pro seven times.
Ronnie Stanley is another outstanding left tackle in the NFL. He is known for his athleticism and his ability to block both power and speed rushers. Stanley has been named to the Pro Bowl three times and has been selected as an All-Pro twice.
David Bakhtiari is a left tackle for the Green Bay Packers. He is known for his athleticism and his ability to protect Aaron Rodgers' blind side. Bakhtiari has been named to the Pro Bowl four times and has been selected as an All-Pro three times.

These are just a few examples of how athleticism has helped left tackles to be successful in the NFL. Without athleticism, left tackles would not be able to protect the quarterback effectively, which would put the team at a significant disadvantage.

2. Technique

Technique is essential for left tackles to be successful in the NFL. Left tackles need to be able to use their technique to block different types of defenders, including power rushers, speed rushers, and stunts.

Hand Placement: Left tackles need to have good hand placement in order to gain control of the defender and prevent them from getting into the quarterback's body.
Footwork: Left tackles need to have good footwork in order to be able to move quickly and efficiently to block different types of defenders.
Body Positioning: Left tackles need to have good body positioning in order to be able to generate power and leverage to block defenders.
Awareness: Left tackles need to be aware of the different types of stunts and blitzes that the defense may run, and they need to be able to adjust their technique accordingly.

Left tackles who have excellent technique are able to protect the quarterback effectively and help their team win games. Here are some examples of how technique has helped left tackles to be successful in the NFL:

Joe Thomas is a former left tackle for the Cleveland Browns. He was known for his excellent technique and his ability to block both power and speed rushers. Thomas was named to the Pro Bowl 10 times and was selected as an All-Pro nine times.
Walter Jones is a former left tackle for the Seattle Seahawks. He was known for his excellent technique and his ability to dominate opposing defensive linemen. Jones was named to the Pro Bowl nine times and was selected as an All-Pro eight times.
Anthony Muoz is a former left tackle for the Cincinnati Bengals. He was known for his excellent technique and his ability to protect the quarterback's blind side. Muoz was named to the Pro Bowl 11 times and was selected as an All-Pro 10 times.

These are just a few examples of how technique has helped left tackles to be successful in the NFL. Left tackles who have excellent technique are able to protect the quarterback effectively and help their team win games.

3. Intelligence

In today's NFL, left tackles are more important than ever before. With the league's increasing emphasis on passing, left tackles are responsible for protecting the quarterback's blind side and giving him time to throw the football. To be successful, left tackles need to be intelligent and have a deep understanding of the game.

Understanding the Defense
Left tackles need to be able to read the defense and understand what they are trying to do. This means being able to identify different defensive fronts, blitzes, and stunts. Left tackles also need to be able to communicate with their teammates and make adjustments based on the defense's alignment and movements.
Making the Right Adjustments
Once left tackles have identified the defense's intentions, they need to be able to make the right adjustments to their blocking assignments. This means being able to change their footwork, hand placement, and body position to effectively block different types of defenders. Left tackles also need to be able to adjust to the defense's adjustments, such as stunts and blitzes.
Playing with Awareness
Left tackles need to be aware of everything that is happening on the field. This means being aware of the position of their teammates, the position of the defenders, and the position of the football. Left tackles also need to be aware of the time remaining on the play clock and the down and distance.
Making Quick Decisions
Left tackles need to be able to make quick decisions under pressure. This means being able to quickly identify the defense's intentions, make the right adjustments, and execute their blocks effectively. Left tackles also need to be able to make quick decisions when they are facing stunts or blitzes.

Intelligence is a key component of being a successful left tackle in the NFL. Left tackles who are intelligent and have a deep understanding of the game are able to protect the quarterback and help their team win games.

4. Leadership

Leadership is an essential quality for any left tackle, regardless of their skill level or experience. Left tackles are responsible for protecting the quarterback's blind side, which is a critical role in any offense. They must be able to communicate effectively with their teammates, make quick decisions under pressure, and execute their assignments with precision. In addition, left tackles often serve as leaders on their teams, both on and off the field.

Setting an Example
Left tackles are often looked up to by their teammates as examples of hard work and dedication. They are expected to be in excellent physical condition and to be able to perform at a high level on a consistent basis. Left tackles who set a good example for their teammates are more likely to be respected and followed.
Motivating Others
Left tackles can also play a role in motivating their teammates. They can do this by encouraging them, providing positive feedback, and helping them to stay focused on their goals. Left tackles who are able to motivate their teammates can help to create a positive and productive environment within the team.
Making Decisions
Left tackles are often called upon to make decisions in the heat of the moment. They must be able to assess the situation quickly and make the best decision for the team. Left tackles who are able to make good decisions under pressure can help their team to succeed.
Being a Role Model
Left tackles can also serve as role models for younger players. They can show them what it takes to be successful in the NFL and how to conduct themselves both on and off the field. Left tackles who are good role models can help to shape the culture of their team and to inspire the next generation of players.

Leadership is an important quality for any left tackle who wants to be successful in the NFL. Left tackles who are leaders are more likely to be respected by their teammates, to be able to motivate them, and to make good decisions under pressure. They can also serve as role models for younger players and help to shape the culture of their team.

5. Experience

Experience is one of the most important factors that contribute to the success of a left tackle in the NFL. Left tackles who have a lot of experience playing at a high level are more likely to be able to protect the quarterback effectively and help their team win games.

Reading the Defense
One of the most important things that left tackles learn with experience is how to read the defense. Left tackles need to be able to identify different defensive fronts, blitzes, and stunts in order to be able to block them effectively. Experience helps left tackles to develop a better understanding of the game and to be able to anticipate what the defense is going to do.
Technique
Experience also helps left tackles to develop better technique. Left tackles need to have good footwork, hand placement, and body positioning in order to be able to block effectively. Experience allows left tackles to practice and refine their technique so that they can become more efficient and effective blockers.
Communication
Left tackles also need to be able to communicate effectively with their teammates. Left tackles need to be able to communicate with the quarterback, the center, and the other offensive linemen in order to be able to execute their blocking assignments effectively. Experience helps left tackles to develop better communication skills and to be able to work together as a unit.
Consistency
Finally, experience helps left tackles to become more consistent. Left tackles who have a lot of experience playing at a high level are more likely to be able to perform at a high level on a consistent basis. This is important because left tackles need to be able to protect the quarterback every play, regardless of the situation.

In conclusion, experience is one of the most important factors that contribute to the success of a left tackle in the NFL. Left tackles who have a lot of experience playing at a high level are more likely to be able to protect the quarterback effectively and help their team win games.

6. Consistency

Consistency is one of the most important qualities for a left tackle in the NFL. Left tackles need to be able to perform at a high level on a consistent basis in order to protect the quarterback and help their team win games. There are a number of factors that contribute to consistency, including experience, technique, and athleticism. However, one of the most important factors is mental toughness.

Mentally tough left tackles are able to stay focused and perform at a high level even when they are facing adversity. They are able to overcome mistakes and bad plays, and they are able to stay positive and motivated even when things are not going their way. This is important because left tackles need to be able to perform at a high level on every play, regardless of the situation.

There are a number of examples of left tackles who have been able to achieve great success in the NFL due to their consistency. Joe Thomas is a former left tackle for the Cleveland Browns who was known for his consistency and durability. Thomas was named to the Pro Bowl 10 times and was selected as an All-Pro nine times. He was also a key member of the Browns' offensive line that helped the team reach the playoffs in 2007 and 2009.

Another example of a consistent left tackle is Walter Jones. Jones was a left tackle for the Seattle Seahawks who was known for his dominance and consistency. Jones was named to the Pro Bowl nine times and was selected as an All-Pro eight times. He was also a key member of the Seahawks' offensive line that helped the team win Super Bowl XL in 2005.

Consistency is a key component of being a successful left tackle in the NFL. Left tackles who are able to perform at a high level on a consistent basis are more likely to be able to protect the quarterback and help their team win games.

7. Versatility

Versatility is a key component of being a successful left tackle in the NFL. Left tackles who are able to play multiple positions along the offensive line are more valuable to their teams and are more likely to be able to stay on the field in different situations.

There are a number of reasons why versatility is important for left tackles. First, left tackles who are able to play multiple positions can provide their teams with more flexibility. For example, a left tackle who can also play right tackle can be used to replace either tackle in the event of an injury. This can be especially important in the playoffs, when teams are more likely to have injuries and need to be able to adjust their lineup accordingly.

Second, versatility can help left tackles to stay on the field in different situations. For example, a left tackle who can also play guard can be used to help block for the running game in short-yardage situations. This can be especially important in goal-line situations, when teams need to be able to punch the ball into the end zone. Similarly, a left tackle who can also play center can be used to help protect the quarterback on passing plays.

There are a number of examples of left tackles who have been able to achieve great success in the NFL due to their versatility. Joe Thomas is a former left tackle for the Cleveland Browns who was known for his versatility and durability. Thomas was able to play both left tackle and right tackle at a high level, and he was also able to play guard in a pinch. This versatility made Thomas a valuable asset to the Browns, and he was a key member of the team's offensive line for many years.

Another example of a versatile left tackle is Trent Williams. Williams is a left tackle for the San Francisco 49ers who is known for his athleticism and versatility. Williams is able to play both left tackle and right tackle at a high level, and he is also able to play guard if needed. This versatility makes Williams a valuable asset to the 49ers, and he is a key member of the team's offensive line.

In conclusion, versatility is a key component of being a successful left tackle in the NFL. Left tackles who are able to play multiple positions along the offensive line are more valuable to their teams and are more likely to be able to stay on the field in different situations.

8. Durability

Durability is a key component of being a successful left tackle in the NFL. Left tackles who are able to stay healthy and play through injuries are more likely to be able to protect the quarterback and help their team win games. There are a number of reasons why durability is important for left tackles.

First, left tackles who are able to stay healthy are more likely to be able to develop consistency. Consistency is important for left tackles because they need to be able to perform at a high level on every play, regardless of the situation. Left tackles who are injured or miss games are less likely to be able to develop consistency, which can hurt their team's performance.

Second, left tackles who are able to play through injuries are more likely to be able to help their team win games. There are a number of examples of left tackles who have been able to make big plays or key blocks while playing through injuries. These plays can make a big difference in the outcome of a game.

For example, Joe Thomas is a former left tackle for the Cleveland Browns who was known for his durability and toughness. Thomas played through a number of injuries during his career, including a torn ACL in 2007. Despite these injuries, Thomas was able to remain one of the best left tackles in the NFL for many years. He was named to the Pro Bowl 10 times and was selected as an All-Pro nine times.

Another example of a durable left tackle is Walter Jones. Jones was a left tackle for the Seattle Seahawks who was known for his dominance and consistency. Jones played through a number of injuries during his career, including a torn ACL in 2004. Despite these injuries, Jones was able to remain one of the best left tackles in the NFL for many years. He was named to the Pro Bowl nine times and was selected as an All-Pro eight times.

In conclusion, durability is a key component of being a successful left tackle in the NFL. Left tackles who are able to stay healthy and play through injuries are more likely to be able to protect the quarterback and help their team win games.

FAQs on Best NFL Left Tackles

This section aims to provide answers to frequently asked questions about the best NFL left tackles, shedding light on their essential qualities, roles, and contributions to the sport.

Question 1: What are the key attributes that define a great NFL left tackle?

A great NFL left tackle possesses a combination of exceptional athleticism, refined technique, high football IQ, strong leadership skills, and proven consistency. They must be agile, powerful, and quick to react, with a deep understanding of blocking schemes and defensive strategies.

Question 2: How does the role of a left tackle differ from other offensive line positions?

The left tackle holds a unique responsibility in protecting the quarterback's blind side, preventing defenders from reaching them and disrupting the passing game. They must work in sync with fellow offensive linemen to create a cohesive unit that provides a sturdy foundation for the team's offensive success.

Question 3: What are some notable examples of highly accomplished NFL left tackles?

Throughout NFL history, several left tackles have left an indelible mark on the sport with their outstanding performances. Joe Thomas, Walter Jones, and Anthony Muoz are just a few examples of legendary left tackles who have earned numerous accolades and set standards for the position.

Question 4: How does experience contribute to the success of a left tackle?

Experience is a crucial factor in shaping a left tackle's abilities. With each season played, they gain invaluable knowledge of defensive tactics, improve their timing, and develop a keen sense of anticipation. This accumulated experience allows them to make split-second decisions and execute blocks with greater effectiveness.

Question 5: Why is versatility important for NFL left tackles?

Versatility is a highly sought-after trait in left tackles, as it provides teams with increased flexibility and depth. Left tackles who can play multiple positions along the offensive line offer valuable options in the event of injuries or game-specific adjustments. Their ability to seamlessly transition between roles contributes to the team's overall performance and adaptability.

In summary, the best NFL left tackles are a combination of physical prowess, technical expertise, and unwavering determination. They play a pivotal role in safeguarding the quarterback and creating a solid foundation for the team's offensive success. As the game evolves, the demands on left tackles continue to grow, and those who embrace these challenges will undoubtedly leave their mark on the sport.

Transition to the next article section: This concludes our exploration of the best NFL left tackles. In the following section, we will delve into the intricacies of their blocking techniques, examining the strategies and skills they employ to neutralize opposing defenders and pave the way for offensive success.

Best NFL Left Tackles

In the NFL, the left tackle position stands as a pillar of offensive prowess, safeguarding the quarterback's blind side and paving the way for explosive plays. Throughout this exploration, we have uncovered the intricate qualities that define the best left tackles, delving into their athleticism, technique, intelligence, leadership, experience, consistency, versatility, and durability.

These exceptional individuals are the unsung heroes of the gridiron, their contributions often overlooked amidst the spotlight cast upon quarterbacks and skill position players. Yet, their ability to dominate in the trenches is paramount to offensive success, creating a stable platform for quarterbacks to operate and running backs to find running lanes.

As the NFL continues to evolve, the demands on left tackles will undoubtedly grow. The increasing emphasis on passing and the relentless pursuit of defensive dominance will require these athletes to adapt and refine their craft. Those who embrace these challenges and push the boundaries of their abilities will undoubtedly shape the future of the game.

In conclusion, the best NFL left tackles are more than just protectors; they are gladiators in the trenches, masters of their craft, and the cornerstone of every successful offense. Their unwavering commitment to excellence and their ability to perform under pressure make them indispensable assets to their teams and true difference-makers in the NFL.