The 10 greatest NFL offensive linemen of all time are often hailed as the unsung heroes of the football field. These players, whether they are agile guards, formidable tackles, or strategic centers, form the backbone of powerful teams. A legendary front five has been a hallmark of every successful franchise throughout NFL history.
Determining who stands out among the best offensive linemen in NFL history is no small feat.
Since the league’s inception in 1920, a multitude of exceptional talents have made their mark on the game. However, only a select few have demonstrated the perfect blend of skill, endurance, and championship success to be recognized as the greatest.
According to FOX Sports Research, the following players have been ranked as the top 10 offensive linemen in NFL history.
While some selections may seem obvious, there are also unexpected names that have earned their spot based on performance analysis. How does your favorite offensive lineman stack up?
Let’s explore the list:
1. Larry Allen
Larry Allen is a pivotal figure in NFL history, significantly contributing to Emmitt Smith’s status as the league’s all-time leading rusher. Over his illustrious career with the Cowboys, he started 121 games at left guard, 45 at right guard, 20 at left tackle, and 11 at right tackle. Allen’s accolades include seven All-Pro selections and 11 Pro Bowl appearances, culminating in his 2013 induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame. He is widely regarded as the most dominant guard in the sport’s history.
2. Anthony Muñoz
Anthony Muñoz, a legendary left tackle, was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1998. His career boasts 11 consecutive Pro Bowl selections and All-Pro honors during the same span from 1981 to 1991. Muñoz was named NFL Offensive Lineman of the Year three times and spent his entire 13-year career with the Cincinnati Bengals, starting 184 of 185 games.
3. Jonathan Ogden
Jonathan Ogden, a cornerstone of the Baltimore Ravens’ offensive line, was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2013. He was a nine-time All-Pro and an 11-time Pro Bowl selection. As the first-ever draft pick for the Ravens in 1996, he started 176 of 177 games during his career, playing a key role in the team’s Super Bowl victory in the 2000 season.
4. Orlando Pace
Orlando Pace, known as the anchor of the “Greatest Show on Turf,” was a significant contributor to the St. Louis Rams’ success. Inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2016, Pace’s 13-year career included five All-Pro selections and seven Pro Bowl nods. He played a crucial role in opening lanes for Hall of Famer Marshall Faulk, who had a record-setting 2000 season.
5. Jim Otto
Jim Otto is frequently regarded as the best center in NFL history. His 15-season tenure with the Raiders from 1960 to 1974 included 10 All-AFL selections and two All-Pro honors. Otto was a durable player, participating in every game during the AFL’s first decade and finishing his career with an impressive streak of 210 consecutive starts.
6. Walter Jones
Walter Jones, a stalwart for the Seattle Seahawks, played 14 seasons and started in 180 games. His accolades include six All-Pro selections and nine Pro Bowl appearances, culminating in his 2014 induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame. In 2005, Jones was instrumental in helping Shaun Alexander achieve a record-breaking season.
7. Bruce Matthews
Bruce Matthews showcased remarkable versatility throughout his 19-year career with the Oilers and Titans, playing guard, tackle, and center. His impressive 14 consecutive Pro Bowl selections and nine All-Pro honors highlight his exceptional talent. Matthews’ durability is evident, having started 293 of 296 regular-season games, and he was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2007.
8. John Hannah
John Hannah, a standout guard for the New England Patriots, was recognized as an All-Pro for 10 straight seasons from 1976 to 1985. He received the NFL Players Association’s Offensive Lineman of the Year award four consecutive years and was selected for nine Pro Bowls during his 13-year career. Hannah’s induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame occurred in 1991.
9. Mike Webster
Mike Webster’s career with the Pittsburgh Steelers is marked by consistency and success. After a few years of sharing time, he became the team’s starting center, making 150 consecutive starts until 1986. Webster won four Super Bowl titles and earned eight All-Pro selections along with nine Pro Bowl nods, leading to his induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1997.
Zack Martin has emerged as a premier player for the Dallas Cowboys since being drafted 16th overall in the 2014 NFL Draft. Over his first decade in the league, Martin secured seven First Team All-Pro selections and two Second Team selections. His only season without an All-Pro nod was in 2020 due to injury. He is often regarded as the second-best offensive lineman in Cowboys history, just behind Larry Allen.
Honorable Mention
- Forrest Gregg
- Gene Upshaw
- Jackie Slater
- Alan Faneca