The NFL’s 11 best offensive tackles

You need to protect the quarterback in today’s NFL, and if you’re going to be a great tackle start there. Here are the est in the game.

8. La’el Collins, Dallas Cowboys

(AP Photo/Ron Jenkins)

Many expected La’el Collins to be a first round pick in the 2015 NFL Draft, but just days before that draft got underway, word leaked that authorities wanted to speak with him after the draft in connection with the shooting of a pregnant woman with whom Collins previously had a relationship. Despite the fact that the police did not consider him a suspect, Collins was too risky of a pick early in the draft, and basically pulled himself out, hoping to test the UDFA market.

He ended up signing with the Dallas Cowboys, and became something of a steal. He started his career at the left guard spot before kicking to the right tackle position for the 2017 campaign. He has been a solid player at that position and shown improvement each season. Last year was his best in the league, as he allowed just two sacks in 2019 after allowing five in 2017 and eight a season ago.

You have also seen his technique improve now with three years under his belt on the outside. On this play against Cameron Jordan you see his upper body power, as he fights with his hands and gains the leverage advantage over the defensive end:

That upper body power shows up on this play against Shaq Lawson of the Buffalo Bills:

I love this play against the Chicago Bears. Here Collins faces Khalil Mack, who is using a “wide-9 alignment” against him on this 3rd and long play. Mack has all the momentum in the world, but Collins mirrors him and drops the anchor perfectly, stoning the feared pass rusher cold:

Collins seems to be growing into a top-flight tackle in the NFL. More seasons like the one he put on film in 2019 and he’ll be atop a list like this in no time.

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