Offensive Lines Analysis- 2006 Season

By: Chris Smith

Ask the casual fantasy football owners about the top running backs for this upcoming season and they are sure to mention Larry Johnson, LaDainian Tomlinson and Shaun Alexander. For receivers, they will be able to spout off Randy Moss, Chad Johnson, Larry Fitzgerald and Terrell Owens. At the quarterback spot, even the most casual fans are aware that Peyton Manning is the best option.

For the prepared, dedicated fantasy football owner, they will know that Marion Barber III has a chance to see significant carries in the Dallas Cowboys offense in '06, that Michael Clayton has looked back to his form that helped him put up great numbers as a rookie in 2004 and that it is currently WR Reggie Williams who has taken over Jimmy Smith's spot in the Jaguars offense.

However if you really want to dominate your peers, be ahead of the curve and manage your team to the best of your ability it is best to look at all areas that can have an impact on your fantasy team. That includes offensive schemes, strength of schedule, positional battles and finally a significant part of a team that perhaps has as much impact on the offense as any other positions. Of course, reading the title above, it is easy to figure out that I'm talking about the offensive lines. No matter how talented a running back is, he will have difficulty running the ball if the offensive line in front of him cannot open the holes (unless his name is Barry Sanders). In addition, a quarterback may have a cannon of an arm and the accuracy of an archer but it's hard to complete a pass while lying prone on your back.

This season, there are some offensive lines that are clearly a cut above the others, many that are mired in mediocrity and others that are pretty putrid. This feature will take a look at each of the 32 NFL teams offensive lines, break down the individual player's that make up the unit and highlight the strengths and weaknesses of each group. Included in this feature is a total score out of 50 for each unit as well as a letter grade from A (excellent) to E (terrible). Also, we sort the statistics from the 2005 season into separate tables for both rushing and passing and rank the teams in order of effectiveness last year.

Are you ready? Sit back, get comfortable and grab a nice, cold beverage as this article will take awhile to get through. I assure you by the end of the article you will have a really good feel on which teams are blessed with the most effective offensive lines this season.

2006 Grading Table:

Rk	Team	Run	Pass	Depth	Cohes.	Exp.	Score	Grade	Comments
1	Cincinnati Bengals	9	9	10	10	10	48	A	Bengals offensive line now the dominant unit
2	Denver Broncos	10	8	9	10	10	47	A	Always amongst best OL units in the NFL
3	Pittsburgh Steelers	10	8	9	10	9	46	A	Right up there with the top groups in the game
4	Chicago Bears	9	7	8	9	9	42	B+	Emerge as an upper-tier group in 2005
5	New York Giants	9	6	7	9	8	39	B+	Tremendous run blocking
6	Washington Redskins	9	8	4	8	10	39	B+	Great starters but questionable depth
7	Minnesota Vikings	8	8	7	6	9	38	B	Adding Steve Hutchinson makes group much better
8	Miami Dolphins	8	8	7	6	9	38	B	Unit blessed with great coaching (Hudson Houck)
9	Kansas City Chiefs	9	7	6	7	9	38	B	Slipping a little. Question marks at both tackle positions
10	Seattle Seahawks	9	7	6	7	9	38	B	Loss of guard Steve Hutchinson will hurt
11	Tampa Bay Buccaneers	8	8	8	6	7	37	B	This group is quickly ascending the charts
12	Jacksonville Jaguars	8	7	6	6	9	36	B	Underachieved in 2005 but should be improved this season
13	Atlanta Falcons	9	6	4	7	9	35	B	Suspect talent overshadowed by brilliant coaching/schemes
14	Baltimore Ravens	7	7	7	7	8	36	B	Really disappointed last year but should return to 2004 form
15	Philadelphia Eagles	8	6	7	6	8	35	B	Good young talent will slowly implement into group
16	New England Patriots	6	8	6	7	8	35	B	Keep losing good talent but find ways to re-tool
17	St. Louis Rams	7	6	6	7	7	33	C+	Getting a little long in the tooth but still have OT Orlando Pace
18	Dallas Cowboys	7	7	5	5	8	32	C+	Cowboys looking for better play out of the OL in 2006
19	San Francisco 49ers	8	5	6	5	8	32	C+	This unit is better than most realize.
20	Indianapolis Colts	6	6	5	8	7	32	C+	Not as good as some people think.
21	Oakland Raiders	7	7	5	7	6	32	C+	There is talent here and Art Shell's presence makes them better
22	Carolina Panthers	7	8	5	5	7	32	C+	Some good young talent here but needs to come together
23	Houston Texans	8	5	6	6	6	31	C	The Texans offensive line has potential if they can come together.
24	San Diego Chargers	7	7	5	5	7	31	C	Have enough young talent to climb the ladder
25	Detroit Lions	6	6	5	5	8	30	C	Lions appear to be average at best along the OL
26	New York Jets	6	8	5	5	6	30	C	Will take awhile to come together but looks great for 2007
27	Arizona Cardinals	5	6	6	5	7	29	C-	Not good but better than they showed last season
28	Cleveland Browns	6	6	5	5	7	29	C-	Crushing injury to C Bentley destroys promising season for OL
29	Tennessee Titans	6	7	5	4	5	27	C-	Two young, inexperienced tackles offers hope for the future
30	New Orleans Saints	6	6	3	5	6	26	C-	Unsettled offensive line could struggle at times this season
31	Buffalo Bills	4	5	5	4	8	26	C-	Have a couple of good players but are in a transitional period.
32	Green Bay Packers	3	4	5	3	5	20	E	This group is in a mess. Have yet to replace the departed starters
	Team	/10	/10	/10	/10	/10	/50

2005 OL Statistical Score:

Rnk	NFL Team	YPC	Sc1	RuY	Sc2	RTD	Sc3	RuFD	Sc4	SA	Sc5	PA/S	Sc6	Total
1	Denver	4.7	2	2539	2	25	3	145	1	23	3	20.2	5	16
2	Seattle	4.7	2	2457	3	29	1	142	2	27	5	17.6	9	22
3	Kansas City	4.6	5	2382	4	26	2	138	4	32	10	15.8	13	38
4	NY Giants	4.7	2	2209	6	17	8	106	10	28	7	19.9	7	40
5	Cincinnati	4.2	9	1910	11	15	12	109	9	21	2	25.6	2	45
6	San Diego	4.5	6	2072	9	22	4	116	6	31	10	17.0	10	45
7	Indianapolis	3.7	24	1703	16	18	6	116	6	20	1	25.8	1	54
8	Atlanta	4.8	1	2546	1	17	8	139	3	39	18	11.6	25	56
9	Washington	4.2	9	2183	7	15	12	114	8	31	10	15.5	14	60
10	Miami	4.3	7	1898	12	11	17	93	17	26	4	21.4	4	61
11	Pittsburgh	4.0	12	2223	5	21	5	120	5	32	16	11.8	24	67
12	Chicago	4.3	7	2099	8	11	17	99	12	31	10	13.5	18	72
13	Jacksonville	3.9	16	1959	10	18	6	97	13	32	16	15.2	15	76
14	New England	3.4	29	1512	24	16	11	101	11	28	7	20.1	6	88
15	Carolina	3.4	29	1679	19	17	8	82	22	28	7	16.0	12	97
16	Tampa Bay	4.0	12	1826	14	13	14	83	20	41	19	12.0	23	102
17	Green Bay	3.4	29	1352	30	11	17	76	25	27	5	23.2	3	109
18	New Orleans	4.0	12	1688	18	8	27	89	18	41	19	13.5	18	112
19	Tennessee	3.8	20	1525	23	8	27	72	29	31	10	19.2	8	117
20	St. Louis	4.0	12	1535	22	13	14	82	22	46	26	13.0	22	118
21	Dallas	3.6	25	1861	13	13	14	97	13	50	29	10.0	28	122
22	Detroit	3.6	25	1471	26	10	22	69	31	31	10	16.8	11	125
23	Philadelphia	3.9	16	1432	28	11	17	73	28	42	21	14.8	17	127
24	Baltimore	3.6	25	1605	21	5	30	97	13	42	21	13.4	20	130
25	Houston	4.2	9	1816	15	9	25	89	18	68	32	6.6	32	131
26	Oakland	3.8	20	1369	29	11	17	80	24	45	24	13.1	21	135
27	Buffalo	3.8	20	1607	20	6	29	96	16	43	23	10.7	27	135
28	Minnesota	3.9	16	1467	27	10	22	83	20	54	31	9.4	29	145
29	San Francisco	3.9	16	1689	17	9	25	70	30	48	28	8.1	31	147
30	Cleveland	3.8	20	1503	25	4	31	76	25	46	26	10.8	26	153
31	Arizona	3.2	32	1138	32	2	32	58	32	45	24	14.9	16	168
32	NY Jets	3.5	28	1328	31	10	22	74	27	53	30	8.9	30	168

2005 Run Blocking Statistical Ranking:

Rnk	NFL Team	YPC	Sc1	RuY	Sc2	RTD	Sc3	RuFD	Sc4	Run Tot
1	Denver	4.7	2	2539	2	25	3	145	1	8
2	Seattle	4.7	2	2457	3	29	1	142	2	8
3	Atlanta	4.8	1	2546	1	17	8	139	3	13
4	Kansas City	4.6	5	2382	4	26	2	138	4	15
5	San Diego	4.5	6	2072	9	22	4	116	6	25
6	NY Giants	4.7	2	2209	6	17	8	106	10	26
7	Pittsburgh	4.0	12	2223	5	21	5	120	5	27
8	Washington	4.2	9	2183	7	15	12	114	8	36
9	Cincinnati	4.2	9	1910	11	15	12	109	9	41
10	Chicago	4.3	7	2099	8	11	17	99	12	44
11	Jacksonville	3.9	16	1959	10	18	6	97	13	45
12	Indianapolis	3.7	24	1703	16	18	6	116	6	52
13	Miami	4.3	7	1898	12	11	17	93	17	53
14	Tampa Bay	4.0	12	1826	14	13	14	83	20	60
15	Dallas	3.6	25	1861	13	13	14	97	13	65
16	Houston	4.2	9	1816	15	9	25	89	18	67
17	St. Louis	4.0	12	1535	22	13	14	82	22	70
18	New England	3.4	29	1512	24	16	11	101	11	75
19	New Orleans	4.0	12	1688	18	8	27	89	18	75
20	Carolina	3.4	29	1679	19	17	8	82	22	78
21	Buffalo	3.8	20	1607	20	6	29	96	16	85
22	Minnesota	3.9	16	1467	27	10	22	83	20	85
23	San Francisco	3.9	16	1689	17	9	25	70	30	88
24	Philadelphia	3.9	16	1432	28	11	17	73	28	89
25	Baltimore	3.6	25	1605	21	5	30	97	13	89
26	Oakland	3.8	20	1369	29	11	17	80	24	90
27	Tennessee	3.8	20	1525	23	8	27	72	29	99
28	Green Bay	3.4	29	1352	30	11	17	76	25	101
29	Cleveland	3.8	20	1503	25	4	31	76	25	101
30	Detroit	3.6	25	1471	26	10	22	69	31	104
31	NY Jets	3.5	28	1328	31	10	22	74	27	108
32	Arizona	3.2	32	1138	32	2	32	58	32	128

2005 Pass Blocking Statistical Ranking:

Rnk	NFL Team	SA	Sc5	PA/S	Sc6	Pass Tot
1	Indianapolis	20	1	25.8	1	2
2	Cincinnati	21	2	25.6	2	4
3	Denver	23	3	20.2	5	8
4	Miami	26	4	21.4	4	8
5	Green Bay	27	5	23.2	3	8
6	New England	28	7	20.1	6	13
7	Seattle	27	5	17.6	9	14
8	NY Giants	28	7	19.9	7	14
9	Tennessee	31	10	19.2	8	18
10	Carolina	28	7	16.0	12	19
11	San Diego	31	10	17.0	10	20
12	Detroit	31	10	16.8	11	21
13	Kansas City	32	10	15.8	13	23
14	Washington	31	10	15.5	14	24
15	Chicago	31	10	13.5	18	28
16	Jacksonville	32	16	15.2	15	31
17	New Orleans	41	19	13.5	18	37
18	Philadelphia	42	21	14.8	17	38
19	Pittsburgh	32	16	11.8	24	40
20	Arizona	45	24	14.9	16	40
21	Baltimore	42	21	13.4	20	41
22	Tampa Bay	41	19	12.0	23	42
23	Atlanta	39	18	11.6	25	43
24	Oakland	45	24	13.1	21	45
25	St. Louis	46	26	13.0	22	48
26	Buffalo	43	23	10.7	27	50
27	Cleveland	46	26	10.8	26	52
28	Dallas	50	29	10.0	28	57
29	San Francisco	48	28	8.1	31	59
30	Minnesota	54	31	9.4	29	60
31	NY Jets	53	30	8.9	30	60
32	Houston	68	32	6.6	32	64

2006 Offensive Lines

Arizona Cardinals:
Overall Score: 29 / 50 Grade: C- / Rank: 28th

2005 Statistics: Run block rank: 32nd, Pass block rank: 20th, Overall rank 32nd

Key Additions: G-Milford Brown (Houston), G-Taitusi Lutui (rookie-USC – round two)
Key Losses: None

Projected Starters:

Pos	Name	Ht	Wt	Age	Exp	Yrs-Tm	GS '05	GSC	FS	Hld	SA	Ind. Grade
LT	Leonard Davis	6'6	366	27	6	6	15	75	12	1	4	C+
LG	Milford Brown	6'4	331	25	5	1	12	16	5	1	5	C
C	Reggie Wells	6'4	320	25	4	4	9	26	0	1	2.25	C
RG	Elton Brown	6'4	339	24	2	2	9	9	0	0	4.25	C+
RT	Oliver Ross (inj. – knee)	6'4	324	31	8	2	12	47	7	3	9	C

Key Backups: T Fred Wakefield, C Alex Stepanovich, G Taitusi Lutui [r], C Nick Leckey

The Cardinals offensive line has the potential to be much better than last season if they can stay healthy. It should be pointed out however that this unit couldn't possibly be worse than in 2005. New OL Coach Steve Loney has had some success at the NFL level with the Vikings and is a good teacher. This group gave up 45 sacks and averaged only 3.2 yards per carry in 2005 proving to be equally inept at both run and pass blocking. However this unit was decimated with injuries a year ago and the talent they have in place isn't horrible. Veterans Oliver Ross and Leonard Davis are experienced, big linemen who should be a pretty good set of bookend tackles. Ross was brought in last season and struggled at times plus missed four games with injury. He needs to be much better this season as he allowed nine sacks and had ten penalties (7 false starts and 3 holding). He suffered a knee injury during training camp though and he will likely start the season on the bench. Look for Fred Wakefield to take his spot. Davis has only missed five games during his six-year career and is a fixture at tackle. Inexcusable though was his 12 false start penalties and his inability to destroy defenders off the ball. He has the size and talent necessary to open holes for the running game to exploit but seems to lack the explosion off the ball. Guard Elton Brown was a raw rookie last year who was forced into action for nine games with the injury to Reggie Wells. He made typical rookie mistakes but learned on the job and he'll get a shot at starting this season. He will compete with rookie Taitusi Lutui and newcomer Milford Brown for the two starting guard positions. At this time it appears the club will go with Milford Brown who was brought over from the Houston Texans at the left guard position while Elton Brown my hold a slight lead at the right guard spot. Brown is a big body, capable lineman who should help the team right out of the gate in '06. He isn't a great player but is certainly capable of getting the job done. The most interesting player competing at guard is rookie Taitusi Lutui from USC. He is a big, confident kid who will likely be able to move defenders off the ball. His lack of quickness makes him a liability in space however and the Cardinals may bring him along slowly. If one of the other guards falters however, Lutui will get an opportunity and won't look back. The most interesting battle this training camp may be at the center position where Reggie Wells is pushing Alex Stepanovich hard for the starting job. Stepanovich is a talented kid but has been fighting the injury bug over his first couple of seasons while Wells is a consistent player that could help to solidify the entire offensive line.

Bottom Line: This offensive line is still below average but expect much better play out of this group in 2006 after one of the worst performances of all-time a year ago. The competition at both guard spots as well as at center will help the offensive linemen to improve this season.

Atlanta Falcons
Overall Score: 35 / 50

Grade: B / Rank: 13th

2005 Statistics: Run block rank: 3rd, Pass block rank: 23rd, Overall rank: 6th

Key Additions: T Wayne Gandy (Saints), G Quinn Ojinn (Syracuse – round six)
Key Losses: T Kevin Shaffer (Browns), Barry Stokes (Detroit)

Projected Starters:

Pos	Name	Ht	Wt	Age	Exp	Yrs-Tm	GS '05	GSC	FS	Hld	SA	Ind. Grade
LT	Wayne Gandy	6'4	315	35	13	1	16	184	2	5	5	B
LG	Matt Lehr	6'2	304	27	6	2	15	37	1	2	3.5	C+
C	Todd McClure	6'1	286	29	7	7	16	86	0	1	1.5	B
RG	Kynan Forney	6'3	307	27	6	6	16	68	4	1	3.5	B+
RT	Todd Weiner	6'4	297	30	9	5	15	82	0	4	5.5	C+

Key Backups: T Frank Omiyale, G Ben Claxton, G Quinn Ojinn [r]

The Falcons offensive line is proof positive that you don’t always need the finest talent to be productive. High-quality coaching and superior schemes have enabled the Falcons to run the ball very well despite middling talent along the offensive line. New OL coach Tom Cable comes in from the college ranks (USC) but it is part-time coach Alex Gibbs that drives this bus. The Falcons had a hole at left tackle but filled it nicely this off-season with the acquisition of Wayne Gandy in a trade with the New Orleans Saints. Gandy is an upgrade at the position for the club although he isn't the player he once was. His experience (184 career starts) should help him to fit in immediately with this group. The interior of the offensive line is in good shape with guard Kynan Forney (48 consecutive starts), guard Matt Lehr (15 starts last season) and center Todd McClure (63 consecutive starts). Forney in particular has developed into a really strong player with a great work ethic.

Bottom Line: The individual talent along this offensive line is far from tremendous but good coaching has done wonders for this group over the past couple of seasons and it will help once again in 2006. More so than any other position in the NFL, good schemes and coaching win out over individual talent and the Falcons are certainly proof of that. Expect more of the same from this unit this season.

Baltimore Ravens

Overall Score: 36 / 50

Grade: B / Rank: 14th

2005 Statistics: Run block rank: 25th, Pass block rank: 21st, Overall rank 24th

Key Additions: C/G Chris Chester (Oklahoma – round two)
Key Losses: None

Projected Starters:

Pos	Name	Ht	Wt	Age	Exp	Yrs-Tm	GS '05	GSC	FS	Hld	SA	Ind. Grade
LT	Jonathon Ogden	6'9	345	32	11	11	16	152	6	0	9.25	B+
LG	Edwin Mulitalo	6'3	345	31	8	8	15	98	3	4	0.5	C+
C	Mike Flynn	6'3	305	32	9	2	16	84	0	1	4.5	B
RG	Keydrick Vincent	6'5	325	28	6	2	9	36	1	3	3.5	C+
RT	Adam Terry	6'8	330	23	2	2	0	0	-	-	-	C+

Key Backups: G Brian Rimpf, T Tony Pashos, C Jason Brown, G Chris Chester [r]

Last season was a disappointment for this once proud unit. Coach Chris Foerster returns for another year after a forgettable first season. The team only had five rushing touchdowns and star running back Jamal Lewis averaged a terrible 3.4 yards per carry. Jonathon Ogden is still a horse at left tackle but he will be 32-years old this season and his time as an elite lineman is running out. He should continue at a high level for another couple of seasons though. He began to show cracks in his game though as speed rushers were able to get the edge on him for the first time in his career. Guard Edwin Mulitalo has started 90 games in the last six seasons but struggled with his weight last season and had a poor season. He must re-commit to his conditioning and work ethic this season or he’ll find himself on the outside looking in. He does have the ability to be a dominating run blocker when on his game. Keydrick Vincent is a big body at the other guard position but missed seven games last year. He must play better as well this year as he was inconsistent in his first year with the Ravens. Tony Pashos became a starter at right tackle last season but was below average and may not be the answer for the club. Look for 2nd year tackle Adam Terry to push past him and into the starting lineup this year. A player to watch this season is rookie guard Chris Chester who brings incredible athleticism to the table. If either veteran player struggles out of the gate this year, expect Chester to get a look at one of the guard positions.

Bottom Line: This unit is better than they played a season ago so expect a rebound year, as the talent is there to have a very successful season. The key to this season will be at the guard positions where both Mulitalo and Vincent need to rebound from very disappointing 2005 campaigns. Another key is for Terry to step into right tackle and help to solidify that position.

Buffalo Bills

Overall Score: 26 / 50
Grade: C- / Rank: 31st

2005 Statistics: Run block rank: 22nd, Pass block rank: 26th, Overall rank 26th

Key Additions: C Melvin Fowler (Minnesota), G Tutan Reyes (Carolina), T Aaron Gibson (FA), T Brad Butler (Virginia-round five), T Terrence Pennington (New Mexico-round seven)
Key Losses: G/T Mike Williams (Jacksonville), C Trey Teague (NY Jets)

Projected Starters:

Pos	Name	Ht	Wt	Age	Exp	Yrs-Tm	GS '05	GSC	FS	Hld	SA	Ind. Grade
LT	Mike Gandy	6'4	310	27	5	2	16	46	2	5	7	C-
LG	Tutan Reyes	6'3	310	28	7	1	16	28	0	2	1	C+
C	Melvin Fowler	6'3	295	27	5	1	9	23	0	0	2	C
RG	Chris Villarrial	6'3	318	33	11	3	15	140	3	1	3	C+
RT	Jason Peters	6'4	328	24	3	3	10	11	2	1	1.5	B-

Key Backups: OT Greg Jerman, T Aaron Gibson, T Brad Butler [r] Terrence Pennington [r]

Buffalo’s offensive line really struggled to find their game a year ago and it doesn’t look much better for them in 2006. Coach Jim McNally returns for his 3rd season but must get more out of his players. They lost former 1st round pick Mike Williams to Jacksonville via free agency and while he was a disappointment to the team, he did offer hope to the unit. Bennie Anderson struggled with the Bills in 2005 and was cut from the club. Veteran lineman Tutan Reyes who was brought over from Carolina will replace him. Reyes has good size but doesn't play with enough power or explosion. He is a serviceable starter at best. Mike Gandy is likely the starter at the left tackle position but isn’t overly athletic and gave up 7 sacks. He is playing out of position with the Bills, as he should be slotted in on the right side of the line. Jason Peters, a former tight end has really made improvement at his tackle position. He looked more comfortable as the year wore on and has the athletic ability to become an elite player over the next year or two. He still has work to do when it comes to run blocking. Melvin Fowler was brought in to start at center and he brings quickness and athleticism to the table. He only has 23 career starts and probably is serviceable at best. Guard Chris Villarrial is a proven player who is a decent starter. The Bills drafted two promising offensive tackles in this year's draft. Terrence Pennington and Brad Butler will get a chance to start at left tackle by 2007.

Bottom Line: There isn't much to like when it comes to the Bills offensive line this season. Only Jason Peters looks capable of elevating his play this season and the Bills need one of their two rookie tackles to be ready to replace Mike Gandy by next season at the latest. Expect this offensive line to struggle in '06.

Carolina Panthers

Overall Score: 32 / 50
Grade: C+ / Rank: 22nd

2005 Statistics: Run block rank: 20th, Pass block rank: 10h, Overall rank 15th

Key Additions: C Justin Hartwig (Tennessee), T Rashad Butler (Miami Fla. - round three), C William Montgomery (Virginia Tech – round seven)
Key Losses: G Tutan Reyes (Buffalo), C Jeff Mitchell

Projected Starters:

Pos	Name	Ht	Wt	Age	Exp	Yrs-Tm	GS '05	GSC	FS	Hld	SA	Ind. Grade
LT	Travelle Wharton	6'4	312	25	3	3	16	27	1	3	8.5	C+
LG	Mike Wahle	6'6	304	29	9	2	16	99	0	2	1	B+
C	Justin Hartwig	6'4	312	28	5	1	16	47	2	2	0.5	C+
RG	Evan Mathis	6'5	304	24	2	2	0	0	-	-	-	C
RT	Jordan Gross	6'4	300	26	4	4	16	48	2	0	5.5	B

Key Backups: T Todd Fordham, T Rashad Butler [r], C/G William Montgomery [r]

The Panthers have a young offensive line with no starters currently over 30 years of age. Left Guard Mike Wahle is the veteran of the group entering his ninth season and he is one of the premier guards in the NFL. He rarely makes a mistake and knows how to use leverage to open holes in the running game. He is a very intelligent player that gets off the line of scrimmage very well. Justin Hartwig is a pretty good center who was brought over from Tennessee. He'll settle into this group nicely. Evan Mathis will likely get the nod at right guard and he has a nice mix of size and athletic ability. However he has yet to start a game at the NFL level and is still a question mark at this point in his career. Travelle Wharton continues to learn on the fly at left tackle. He makes the occasional mistake but is getting better and may be considered a top-tier tackle in another season. Jordan Gross has the talent to be an elite lineman but has yet to reach that level. He is steady on the right side of the line but the club would like to see him elevate his play in '06. The Panthers drafted Rashad Butler from Miami Fla. In round three this season and in another season or two, he may get an opportunity to start somewhere along this unit.

Bottom Line: The Panthers may go through some growing pains throughout this season with a new starter at center, a guard who has yet to start a game and a player at left tackle still learning his craft. However the talent level is unmistakable and this unit may be considered one of the best in the NFL by 2008.

Chicago Bears
Overall Score: 42 / 50
Grade: B+ / Rank: 4th

2005 Statistics: Run block rank: 10th, Pass block rank: 15th, Overall rank 12th

Key Additions: G Tyler Reed (Penn State- round six)
Key Losses: None

Projected Starters:

Pos	Name	Ht	Wt	Age	Exp	Yrs-Tm	GS '05	GSC	FS	Hld	SA	Ind. Grade
LT	John Tait	6'6	315	31	8	3	15	94	3	3	9.5	B
LG	Ruben Brown	6'3	300	34	12	3	12	157	2	0	1.5	B
C	Olin Kreutz	6'2	292	29	9	9	16	103	3	0	2	A
RG	Terrence Metcalf	6'3	318	28	5	5	13	20	5	0	2	C+
RT	Fred Miller	6'7	320	33	11	2	15	133	3	1	0	B+

Key Backups: T John St. Clair, G Roberto Garza, G Tyler Reed [r]

The Bears offensive line is a very good unit. They have perhaps the top center in the game today in Olin Kreutz who is a very smart, athletic player who hasn’t taken a holding penalty in the past four seasons. At right guard, Terrence Metcalf is a big body who is quite effective as a run blocker. He isn’t very athletic but serves well as a road-grader. Ruben Brown is 34 years old but had a very good season a year ago and should hold his starting spot at left guard. Right tackle Fred Miller had perhaps his finest season as a pro last year and really helped to solidify the offensive line. He plays with a lot of heart and has a mean streak. Amazingly, Miller didn't give up a sack the entire season. Finally at left tackle, John Tait is a very talented lineman who has struggled to find his A-game with the Bears. He surrendered 9 ½ sacks, took 3 holding penalties and was never able to reach the level he exhibited with the Chiefs.

Bottom Line: Experienced, talented and familiar with one another, expect the Bears to have another good season out of this group and it could be exceptional if Tait rediscovers the form that made him a Pro Bowler.

Cincinnati Bengals
Overall Score: 48 / 50
Grade: A / Rank: 1st

2005 Statistics: Run block rank: 9th, Pass block rank: 2nd, Overall rank: 6th

Key Additions: T-Andrew Whitworth (LSU – round two)
Key Losses: None

Projected Starters:

Pos	Name	Ht	Wt	Age	Exp	Yrs-Tm	GS '05	GSC	FS	Hld	SA	Ind. Grade
LT	Levi Jones	6'5	300	26	5	5	15	61	4	2	5	A
LG	Eric Steinbach	6'6	295	26	4	4	16	46	5	3	2	B+
C	Rich Braham	6'4	305	35	13	13	15	140	1	0	1	B
RG	Bobbie Williams	6'4	340	29	7	3	16	44	2	2	0.5	B
RT	Willie Anderson	6'5	340	31	11	11	16	152	1	1	3.5	A

Key Backups: G Scott Kooistra, T Stacy Andrews, T Andrew Whitworth [r]

Last season, the Bengals offensive line made the transition from a good unit to an exceptional one and is probably the top unit in the NFL today. It all starts at the top where coach Paul Alexander returns for his 12th season as OL coach. Willie Anderson is a force at right tackle. He rarely makes an error, is a force in the running attack and never takes a play off. At 31-years of age he still has a few years remaining as a top-tier tackle. At the other tackle position, Levi Jones has become a tremendous player as well and has a great mix of athleticism, size and technique. He simply dominates his side of the line of scrimmage at times throughout a game. The two combined are probably the best tackle tandem in the NFL. In gluttony of riches, the Bengals are also blessed with one of the finest young guards in the NFL today in Eric Steinbach. He has great technique and his quickness helps him out in space. He isn’t a large lineman at less than 300 pounds but he is able to use leverage and technique nicely to get the job done. Bobby Williams is the other guard and he also has developed into a very good starting lineman. He always had great size and a mean demeanor but his questionable technique often hurt him on game day. He made giant strides in the technical part of the game last year and his game flourished as a result. Finally Rick Braham will be 36 years old this year and he may not have much time yet as a starter. However he played very well last year and his experience is valuable to this group. Add in young, talented 2nd year tackle Stacy Andrews and LSU tackle Andrew Whitworth who was drafted in the 2^nd round this year, and the Bengals are set in 2006.

Bottom Line: Nothing to dislike when it comes to the Cincinnati Bengal's offensive line. Great mix of young and experienced linemen and this unit will dominate the opposition this year, opening up big holes for the running back and putting up the Great Wall of China when it comes to the passing game. This is the best all-around offensive line in the NFL today.

Cleveland Browns
Overall Score: 29 / 50
Grade: C- / Rank: 29th

2005 Statistics: Run block rank: 28th, Pass block rank: 27th, Overall rank 30th

Key Additions: C LeCharles Bentley (New Orleans), T Kevin Shaffer (Atlanta), G/T Bob Hallen (San Diego), T/G Isaac Sowells (Indiana-round four)
Key Losses: T L.J. Shelton (Miami), C Jeff Faine (New Orleans)

Projected Starters:

LT	Kevin Shaffer	6'5	290	26	5	1	16	39	5	2	3	C+
LG	Joe Andruzzi	6'3	315	31	10	2	13	89	1	2	4.5	C+
C	Bob Hallen	6'3	295	31	9	1	3	47	0	2	0	C-
RG	Cosey Coleman	6'4	310	27	7	2	14	77	1	1	2	B
RT	Ryan Tucker (inj)	6'6	314	31	10	5	16	84	2	0	8	C+

Key Backups: T Nat Dorsey, G/T Isaac Sowells [r], C LeCharles Bentley (Out for season – knee), T/G Alonzo Ephraim

The upcoming campaign was a promising one for the Browns' offensive line but it suffered a critical blow when new center LeCharles Bentley went down with a season-ending knee injury during training camp. This injury will be very difficult to overcome this season and the Browns are forced to slot career journeyman Bob Hallen into the position for the upcoming season. In just two seasons, Head Coach Romeo Crennel has completely revamped this offensive line. Left guard Joe Andruzzi was brought in last season and had an impact in the running game with his good run blocking skills. He isn’t as effective when it comes to pass blocking however and must work on his lateral movement. He also appears to be slowly down and at 31-years of age may only have a few seasons left as a viable starter. Also brought in last season was right guard Cosey Coleman who played quite well for the team. His limited athleticism is obvious when he is in space but his strength is in drive blocking and he did that well a year ago. The two tackle positions will be manned by Ryan Tucker and newly acquired Kevin Shaffer from the Falcons. Tucker is tenacious and it is his aggressive nature that helps him to succeed and masks his shortcomings in both athleticism and technique. Shaffer is simply a decent starter for the club and likely wont' be any better than the departed L.J. Shelton was for the club in 2005. His upside is limited but he’ll hold his own for the club. The Browns drafted big Isaac Sowells from Indiana and he'll slot in as a backup at both guard and tackle this season.

Bottom Line: It really is too bad that Bentley suffered a knee injury as this offensive line was looking pretty good for the first time since the Browns returned to the NFL back in 1999. With Hallen being forced into the center position, this unit is noticeably weaker and at best this season, the Browns will be average. Look for better things from this unit in 2007.

Dallas Cowboys
Overall Score: 32 / 50
Grade: C+ / Rank: 18th

2005 Statistics: Run block rank: 15th, Pass block rank: 28th, Overall rank 21st

Key Additions: T Jason Fabini (NY Jets), G Kyle Kosier (Detroit), T E.J. Whitley (Texas Tech – round seven)
Key Losses: G Larry Allen (San Francisco), T Torrin Tucker (Tampa Bay)

Projected Starters:

Pos	Name	Ht	Wt	Age	Exp	Yrs-Tm	GS '05	GSC	FS	Hld	SA	Ind. Grade
LT	Flozell Adams	6'7	343	31	9	9	6	114	1	2	2	A
LG	Kyle Kosier	6'5	309	27	5	1	11	40	1	0	4.5	C
C	Al Johnson	6'5	296	27	3	3	16	31	1	6	1	C+
RG	Marco Rivera	6'4	310	34	11	2	14	125	6	3	3	B
RT	Jason Fabini	6'7	304	32	9	1	9	114	2	0	7	B

Key Backups: T Rob Petitti, C Andre Gurode, G Stephen Peterman, T E.J. Whitley [r]

One of the long-term fixtures along this offensive line, Larry Allen has moved on to the San Francisco 49ers but the Cowboys are in a decent position to replace him going forward as he isn’t the same player he once was. The Cowboys will feature two new starters up front in Jason Fabini, formerly of the Jets and Kyle Kosier, formerly of the Lions. Fabini is a significant upgrade for the Cowboys at the right tackle position. He brings experience and talent to the position and will solidify the right side of the line by teaming up with Marco Rivera who is a good player with an engine that never quits. There is some talk that Rob Petitti will push Fabini at right tackle this season however. Petitti started all 16 games for the Cowboys last season and while he struggled terribly at times, he did earn valuable experience. Rivera wasn’t quite at his best last season but expect better going forward as he is one of the more talented offensive guards in the NFL. Newcomer Kyle Kosier will be competing for the starting job at left guard with 2nd year player Stephen Peterman and Andre Gurode. Watch training camp closely to see who emerges as the opening day starter. Al Johnson is a great, young center with an excellent future ahead of him. He plays with a chip on his shoulder and has good technique. Flozell Adams will start at left tackle after missing ten games last year due to injury. He has struggled over the past two years and the team needs him to rediscover his game. He is a punishing run blocker when he is on his game.

Bottom Line: The Cowboys offensive line has enough talent to be much better than they were a season ago but still have to come together as a unit in order to elevate their play. With long-time veterans Adams, Rivera and Fabini bringing experience to the table, the prognosis for this unit in 2006 is good and could be great if a viable left guard emerges.

Denver Broncos
Overall Score: 46 / 50
Grade: A / Rank: 2nd

2005 Statistics: Run block rank: 1st, Pass block rank: 5th, Overall rank 1st

Key Additions: G Chris Kuper (North Dakota-round five), C Greg Eslinger (Minnesota-round six)
Key Losses: None

Projected Starters:

Pos	Name	Ht	Wt	Age	Exp	Yrs-Tm	GS '05	GSC	FS	Hld	SA	Ind. Grade
LT	Matt Lepsis	6'4	290	32	10	10	16	111	3	0	0.5	A
LG	Ben Hamilton	6'4	283	29	6	6	16	64	1	5	1	B+
C	Tom Nalen	6'3	286	35	13	13	16	167	1	3	2	A
RG	Cooper Carlisle	6'5	295	29	7	7	16	22	3	1	1.5	B
RT	George Foster	6'5	338	26	4	4	16	32	3	1	6.5	A-

Key Backups: G Taylor Whitley, T Adam Meadows, G Chris Kuper [r], C Greg Eslinger [r]

Much like the Atlanta Falcons, the Denver Broncos are able to get the most production possible out of their players. The Broncos offensive line has been one of the best in the NFL consistently over the past ten years and you can expect that trend to continue in 2006. All five starters return from a unit that started all 80 possible games last year and were able to open gaping holes for the running game to exploit. Guard Cooper Carlisle has really come into his own over the past couple of seasons and is now a very good lineman. He rarely makes an error and is quite athletic. George Foster has kept his weight under control over since he became a starter in 2004 and has become one of the more dominant right tackles in the game today. He rarely takes a penalty, moves defensive lineman off the ball and is very difficult to get around. Left guard Ben Hamilton is undersized at only 283 pounds but has superlative technique and gets the job done. Tackle Matt Lepsis has started 128 consecutive games and is as consistent as they come. He didn’t have a holding penalty and only gave up ½ a sack. This will be Tom Nalen’s 12th year as the starting center and he is still playing at a high level. Add in two rookie linemen that seem to fit the Broncos offensive scheme perfectly (G Chris Kuper and C Greg Eslinger) and the Broncos offensive line is in great shape.

Bottom Line: This offensive line is consistently year-in and year-out one of the best in the NFL and this year won't be any different. These players have been playing together for years and it shows on the field with excellent teamwork and communication. This is one of the top few offensive lines in all of football.

Detroit Lions
Overall Score: 30 / 50
Grade: C / Rank: 25th

2005 Statistics: Run block rank: 30th, Pass block rank: 12th, Overall rank 22nd

Key Additions: T-Barry Stokes (Atlanta), T Courtney Van Buren (San Diego), T Jonathon Scott (Texas-round five), G Fred Matua (USC-round seven)
Key Losses: G Kyle Kosier (Dallas)

Projected Starters:

Pos	Name	Ht	Wt	Age	Exp	Yrs-Tm	GS '05	GSC	FS	Hld	SA	Ind. Grade
LT	Jeff Backus	6'5	305	28	6	6	16	80	5	1	3	A
LG	Rick DeMulling	6'4	304	29	7	2	5	46	0	1	0	C
C	Dominic Raiola	6'1	295	27	6	6	16	64	0	0	1	B
RG	Damien Woody	6'3	325	28	8	3	16	108	7	0	3	C+
RT	Kelly Butler	6'7	334	24	3	3	16	16	5	2	4	C

Key Backups: G/T Ross Verba, T Victor Rogers, G Rex Tucker (inj. – knee), T Barry Stokes, T Jonathon Scott [r]

The Detroit Lions offensive line has some talent and could develop into a good unit in 2006. New OL coach Larry Beightol comes over from the Packers where he spent the past seven seasons and he has a very good track record. Jeff Backus has started all 80 games of his career and is an excellent left tackle. He has a mean streak, is tenacious and puts forth 100% effort on every play. At right tackle, Kelly Butler learned on the job a year ago and did a serviceable job for the club. He is a large man but needs to continue working on his technique to reach the next level of his potential. Damien Woody is a solid, no-frills offensive guard who is effective but not aggressive enough to become an elite player. He has only missed two games during his seven-year career. Dominic Raiola has been a pretty good center for the club but could become great. He is aggressive, is committed to improving but his lack of bulk has hurt him at times. The other guard position appears to be a little weak with Rex Tucker and Rick DeMulling battling for the job. Of the two, Tucker has the most upside and he’ll likely get the chance to start although he has not been able to stay healthy. Once considered a very good offensive lineman, Ross Verba has returned to the NFL after pricing himself out of the league. He may emerge as a dark horse to start at left guard this year. An interesting draft choice this year was Jonathon Scott from Texas who has great size and power and could develop into a very good tackle down the road.

Bottom Line: The potential is there for this unit to be much improved this year but Butler must improve his run blocking at right tackle and a viable left guard must emerge. With a stud left tackle already in place and pretty good talent across the board, the Lions offensive line may surprise in '06, especially so if Ross Verba can rediscover his game and emerge as a starter for the club.

Green Bay Packers
Overall Score: 20 / 50
Grade: E / Rank: 32nd

2005 Statistics: Run block rank: 29th, Pass block rank: 3rd, Overall rank 17th

Key Additions: G Daryn Colledge (Boise State-round two), C/G Jason Spitz (Louisville-round three)
Key Losses: C Mike Flanagan (Houston)

Projected Starters:

Pos	Name	Ht	Wt	Age	Exp	Yrs-Tm	GS '05	GSC	FS	Hld	SA	Ind. Grade
LT	Chad Clifton	6'5	330	30	7	7	16	80	7	3	4	B
LG	Daryn Colledge [r]	6'4	298	24	0	0	0	0	-	-	-	D
C	Scott Wells	6'2	304	25	3	3	10	12	1	4	2.5	D
RG	Jason Spitz [r]	6'3	304	23	0	0	0	0	-	-	-	D
RT	Mark Tauscher	6'4	315	29	7	7	16	80	1	2	2.5	B

Key Backups: T Kevin Barry, G/T Matt O’Dwyer, G Adrian Klemm (inj.)

Oh how the mighty has fallen over the past two seasons. New OL Coach Joe Philbin, formerly the TE coach will have his work cut out for him. The once elite offensive line of the Packers has fallen on hard times and this group should be considered one of the weaker units in the NFL. The good news is that both Mark Tauscher and Chad Clifton are returning and both are good players. Tauscher has been a starter since the 2000 season and has both heart and aggression that helps make up for marginal athletic ability. Clifton does well in all aspects of the game although he could be more explosive at the point of attack. After those two players though the wheels fall off. Scott Wells may develop into a good center in time but the former 7th round pick is still learning his craft and isn’t ready to lead this team. It appears that the Packers will be starting two rookies at the guard positions. Both Jason Spitz of Louisville and Daryn Colledge of Boise State have excellent potential but likely aren't ready to be thrown to the wolves at this point in their development. They will make many mistakes while learning their job on the fly.

Bottom Line: If the young talent develops, the unit may be better by 2007 but expect a dreadful season this year as the interior of the line is in shambles.

Houston Texans
Overall Score: 31 / 50
Grade: C / Rank: 23rd

2005 Statistics: Run block rank: 16th, Pass block rank: 32nd, Overall rank 25th

Key Additions: C Mike Flanagan (Green Bay), T Ephraim Salaam (Jacksonville), G Charles Spencer (Pitt-round three), T Eric Winston (Miami Fla-round three)
Key Losses: G Milford Brown (Arizona)

Projected Starters:

Pos	Name	Ht	Wt	Age	Exp	Yrs-Tm	GS '05	GSC	FS	Hld	SA	Ind. Grade
LT	Seth Wand	6'7	330	27	4	4	0	18	1	0	2	C
LG	Chester Pitts	6'4	329	27	5	5	16	64	1	1	8	C+
C	Mike Flanagan	6'5	301	32	11	1	14	64	0	2	2	B
RG	Steve McKinney	6'4	302	30	9	5	16	124	3	0	9	C+
RT	Zach Wiegert	6'5	305	34	12	4	12	128	1	1	5.5	C+

Key Backups: G Charles Spencer [r], T Eric Winston [r], G David Loverne

The Houston Texans offensive line has been amongst the worst pass-blocking units in the NFL since their inception and is in a state of flux this season. However their run blocking hasn’t been too bad over the past couple of years and the team averaged 4.2 yards per carry a year ago. Former Rams OL coach, John Benton was hired to stabilize this unit in 2006 and he does have some talent to work with. Mike Flanagan was brought in from the Packers to provide leadership up the middle. He is an intelligent player, doesn’t give up many sacks and plays with a lot of hustle. He is 33-years old now but has more good football in him. Seth Wand struggled in 2004 and didn't start a game last year but he is being handed the starting left tackle position this year. He is a talented kid but needs to improve his pass blocking to keep the starting job. Chester Pitts has played some tackle but will return to his best position this year at left guard. He is good at moving the pile and will help the running game to pick up yards but he is a liability in pass blocking. Steve McKinney will slot back in at guard this year, his best position He is a better pass protector than run blocker which is just what the doctor ordered. Zach Wiegert is a serviceable right tackle and he should get the nod there this season although draft choice Eric Winston may push him at some point this year. Another player to watch is rookie Charles Spencer from Pitt. He is a huge man with surprising athleticism and once he gets his chance, he'll never give up the starting job. He is a future Pro Bowler.

Bottom Line: There is no doubt that the Texans can run the ball behind this line. Can they protect the quarterback will be the question once again in ’06. This unit isn't nearly as bad as people think. There will be some good training camp battles in 2006 and the future looks very strong with two gifted rookies chomping at the bit to get some playing time. By the end of the year, this unit may be good enough to crack the top fifteen.

Indianapolis Colts
Overall Score: 32 / 50
Grade: C+ / Rank: 20th

2005 Statistics: Run block rank: 12th, Pass block rank: 1st, Overall rank 7th

Key Additions: T-Michael Toudouze (TCU-round five), T Charlie Johnson (Oklahoma-round six)
Key Losses: None

Projected Starters:

Pos	Name	Ht	Wt	Age	Exp	Yrs-Tm	GS '05	GSC	FS	Hld	SA	Ind. Grade
LT	Tarik Glenn	6'5	332	30	10	10	16	138	7	2	3	A-
LG	Ryan Lilja	6'2	285	24	3	3	16	22	1	0	3	C
C	Jeff Saturday	6'2	295	31	8	8	16	96	0	2	1	A-
RG	Jake Scott	6'5	288	25	3	3	16	25	1	3	3	C
RT	Ryan Diem	6'6	320	27	6	6	14	67	4	0	3	B

Key Backups: T Kurt Vollers, G Dylan Gandy, T Michael Toudouze [r], T Charlie Johnson [r]

Sometimes an offensive line can make the skilled position players perform better than they are while at other times the skill positions can mask weakness along the offensive line. This is a case of the latter. Peyton Manning is likely the smartest quarterback in the game today and his ability to read most NFL defenses helps the offensive line appear better than they are. In addition, one of the reasons they have done well can also be attributed to OL coach Howard Mudd who returns for his 9th season with the Colts. Tarik Glenn at left tackle and Jeff Saturday at center are clearly the best two linemen the team has. Glenn has good size and technique and is good at both run and pass blocking. Saturday is one of the better centers in the game today. The 31-year old is smart, athletic and in the prime of his career. Jake Scott is an undersized guard that is pretty good at pass protection but won’t blow defenders off the ball. He was a liability at times last season. At the other guard position is Ryan Lilja who is also undersized at only 285 pounds. His upside is limited and he is at best a serviceable starter. Finally the other tackle is Ryan Diem who would likely be better served as a guard. He is aggressive at the point of attack and has developed into a pretty decent player. The Colts drafted two offensive tackles (Michael Toudouze from TCU and Charlie Johnson from Oklahoma) but neither is expected to contribute this year.

Bottom Line: Put all the parts together and this is only an average offensive line with two elite players and three serviceable linemen. However the scheme is good and having Manning behind center is a major plus for the unit. Expect more fans to be fooled into thinking this is an elite unit once again in 2006 as Manning works his magic.

Jacksonville Jaguars
Overall Score: 36 / 50
Grade: B / Rank: 12th

2005 Statistics: Run block rank: 11th, Pass block rank: 16th, Overall rank 13th

Key Additions: T-Stockar McDougle (Miami), T/G Mike Williams (Buffalo),
Key Losses: T Mike Pearson (Miami), T Ephraim Salaam (Houston)

Projected Starters:

Pos	Name	Ht	Wt	Age	Exp	Yrs-Tm	GS '05	GSC	FS	Hld	SA	Ind. Grade
LT	Khalif Barnes	6'5	305	24	2	2	12	12	0	0	3.5	B
LG	Vince Manuwai	6'2	312	26	4	4	16	46	1	0	3	C+
C	Brad Meester	6'3	300	29	7	7	12	92	1	1	2.5	B
RG	Chris Naeole	6'3	320	31	10	5	15	126	4	2	5	C+
RT	Maurice Williams	6'5	310	27	6	6	16	69	1	2	3.5	A

Key Backups: T Stockar McDougle, C Dennis Norman, G/T Mike Williams, G Daniel Connolly (inj. – broken finger)

The Jaguars offensive line was talented a year ago but was unable to put it all together on the field. New OL Coach Andy Heck has been promoted from assistant line coach and it will be his responsibility to get the most out of this group. The Jaguars were very excited this year in bringing Mike Williams into the fold but he has struggled mightily throughout the off-season and may be cut prior to the season even starting. He has lost 37 pounds since mini-camps finished and he is down to 345 pounds now. He is in the best shape of his professional career but continues to have back pain and has missed four of the five training camp practices thus far. The right guard will be Chris Naeole although he didn’t play that well in 2005. He may find himself in a battle for the starting job as will Vince Manuwai who struggled last year after a very good 2004 season. Both players are capable run blockers but must re-discover the form from the 2004 campaign. If either player struggles, Daniel Connolly may get an opportunity to shine. Also brought in this season was Stockar McDougle who could start at left tackle for the club. However, 2nd year player Khalif Barnes is very talented and should beat out McDougle for the starting job with a good camp as he played quite well as a rookie. He has great size and has excellent athleticism. Maurice Williams is a very good right tackle. He has great strength and is very tenacious on the field. At center Brad Meester is intelligent and has very good technique.

Bottom Line: Expect a rebound season from this unit that has the talent to be very good if they can gel and play up to their potential.

Kansas City Chiefs
Overall Score: 38 / 50
Grade: B / Rank: 9th

2005 Statistics: Run block rank: 4th, Pass block rank: 13th, Overall rank 3rd

Key Additions: T Kyle Turley (FA), G Tre' Stallings (Mississippi-round six)
Key Losses: Willie Roaf (retirement)

Projected Starters:

Pos	Name	Ht	Wt	Age	Exp	Yrs-Tm	GS '05	GSC	FS	Hld	SA	Ind. Grade
LT	Kevin Sampson	6'4	312	25	3	3	1	1	-	-	-	C
LG	Brian Waters	6'3	318	29	7	7	16	72	5	3	1	A
C	Casey Wiegmann	6'2	285	33	11	6	16	104	2	2	1	B+
RG	Will Shields	6'3	320	34	14	14	16	207	0	0	4	A
RT	Jordan Black	6'5	304	26	4	4	10	14	1	5	8	C-

Key Backups: T Kyle Turley G Chris Bober, G Tre' Stallings [r]

For years now, the Chiefs offensive line has been the benchmark against which all offensive lines have been measured. However with both starting tackles having retired this season, all of a sudden there are more question marks than answers along the front. The good news is that the interior three are all back and will dominate again in 2006. Brian Waters and Will Shields may be the top guard combination in the NFL today and both dominate their defenders when it comes to the running game. At center, Casey Wiegmann is an 11-year veteran who brings intelligence and consistency to the table. After those three though, it looks very shaky for the Chiefs. Kevin Sampson has the most upside of the tackles and will likely get the nod at left tackle. However he has just one career start and he has yet to prove anything on the field. On the other side of the line, it will be a battle between transplanted guard Jordan Black who started at tackle last year but struggled and former Saints and Rams tackle Kyle Turley who is attempting a comeback this season. Neither player looks that appealing and there is no question the right tackle spot is a huge concern for the club.

Bottom Line: The Chiefs offensive line should no longer be considered elite. A talented line can mask having one questionable starter at tackle but having two major question marks along the line means this will be a season of transition for the Chiefs. The interior threesome is so talented that the Chiefs still rank 9^th on the list but without question, they will tumble even further down the rankings unless the tackle positions are filled decently.

Miami Dolphins
Overall Score: 38 / 50
Grade: B / Rank: 8th

2005 Statistics: Run block rank: 13th, Pass block rank: 4th, Overall rank 10th

Key Additions: T L.J. Shelton (Cleveland), T Mike Pearson (Jacksonville), T Joe Toledo (Washington-round-four)
Key Losses: T Stockar McDougle (Jacksonville)

Projected Starters:

Pos	Name	Ht	Wt	Age	Exp	Yrs-Tm	GS '05	GSC	FS	Hld	SA	Ind. Grade
LT	L.J. Shelton	6'6	345	30	8	1	16	93	6	2	6	C+
LG	Jeno James	6'4	320	29	7	3	16	58	2	2	2.5	B
C	Rex Hadnot	6'2	325	24	3	3	16	23	9	0	1.5	C+
RG	Seth McKinney	6'3	310	27	5	5	13	34	2	5	0	B
RT	Vernon Carey	6'5	335	25	3	3	14	16	2	1	3	B

Key Backups: T Damion McIntosh, T Wade Smith, T Anthony Alabi, T Mike Pearson, T Joe Toledo [r]

The Dolphins offensive line made giant strides last year as the season wore on and the guy who should get the credit for that improvement is coach Hudson Houck who worked his magic with the club. Last year started poorly but this unit improved as the year wore on and at the end of the year there were big holes for the running game to exploit. L.J. Shelton was brought in via free agency and will likely slot in at left tackle. He has never reached the level he was expected to as a 1st round pick but he is an upgrade for the Dolphins. It appears at this time former first-round pick Vernon Carey will get the nod at right tackle. He started 14 games a year ago and began to show the talent that made him an early draft pick. Guard Jeno James became a force as the year wore on and will be back as the starting left guard this year. He is a big guy who can really open holes in the running game. Seth McKinney missed the final few games last season but had a very productive year at center and will start once again in 2006. This time however he will start at his natural position, right guard. He is more comfortable at guard and should do a good job. Rex Hadnot has impressed the coaching staff and he will get the nod at center for the Dolphins this year. He has good size and blocks well. An intriguing draft pick is former tight end Joe Toledo from Washington. He has the footwork and agility of a tight end and could develop into a top-tier offensive tackle in a couple of seasons.

Bottom Line: This unit has the makings of a strong group in 2006 and could be a dominant unit if they come together nicely. Houck is a genius when it comes to getting the most out of his offensive lines and if anything, this unit should improve from their strong 2005 play.

Minnesota Vikings
Overall Score: 38/ 50

Grade: B / Rank: 7th

2005 Statistics: Run block rank: 21st, Pass block rank: 31st, Overall rank 28^th

Key Additions: G Steve Hutchinson (Seattle), G Artis Hicks (Philadelphia), C Jason Whittle, C Ryan Cook (New Mexico-round two)
Key Losses: C Melvin Fowler (Buffalo), G Toniu Fonoti (Tampa Bay)

Projected Starters:

Pos	Name	Ht	Wt	Age	Exp	Yrs-Tm	GS '05	GSC	FS	Hld	SA	Ind. Grade
LT	Bryant McKinnie	6'8	343	26	5	5	16	55	2	0	5	A
LG	Steve Hutchinson	6'5	313	28	6	1	16	68	0	0	1	A+
C	Matt Birk	6'4	310	30	8	8	11	75	1	4	1	B
RG	Artis Hicks	6'4	335	27	5	1	14	31	4	3	3.5	C+
RT	Marcus Johnson	6'6	321	24	2	2	8	8	6	3	4	C

Key Backups: T Adam Goldberg, G/T Chris Liwienski, C Jason Whittle, T/G Mike Rosenthal, C Ryan Cook [r]

With the addition of Pro Bowler guard Steve Hutchinson, the Vikings are now blessed with two of the finest linemen in football in Hutchinson and tackle Bryant McKinnie. Add in center Matt Birk who when healthy is an elite player as well and the makings of a dominant line are in place for the club. It will be up to new coach Pat Morris, who spent the past two seasons with the Lions to help this unit to gel. Hutchinson is simply put, the best offensive guard in the game today. He has great technique, is tenacious and never quits on a play. He is a great addition to his core. McKinnie is a huge man who is coming into his own as a player. He has the talent to make the Pro Bowl if he plays at his best. The key to this season is at center and the Vikings need a healthy Birk to ensure success from this group. Birk is one of the most intelligent linemen in the NFL and he anchors this group. Artis Hicks who comes over from the Eagles will fill the right guard position. He is a big man who will help to open holes for the club. He isn't great in space and his pass blocking ability is questionable at times. Finally at right tackle will be Marcus Johnson who got some experience as a rookie last year when he started eight games. He is the weak link on this unit but he is very talented and should continue to improve.

Bottom Line: If this unit gels nicely and if Birk can stay healthy, the sky is the limit for this group. They have top five potential with Birk and top fifteen without him and if Marcus Johnson and become a force at right tackle, people may look at this unit as the best in football.

New England Patriots
Overall Score: 35 / 50
Grade: B / Rank: 16th

2005 Statistics: Run block rank: 18th, Pass block rank: 6th, Overall rank 14th

Key Additions: T Ryan O'Callaghan (California-round five), G Dan Stevenson (Notre Dame-round six)
Key Losses: T Tom Ashworth (Seattle)

Projected Starters:

Pos	Name	Ht	Wt	Age	Exp	Yrs-Tm	GS '05	GSC	FS	Hld	SA	Ind. Grade
LT	Matt Light	6'4	305	28	6	6	3	63	2	0	0.5	B
LG	Logan Mankins	6'4	307	24	2	2	16	16	2	1	3.5	B
C	Dan Koppen	6'2	296	26	4	4	9	40	0	0	0	B
RG	Steve Neal	6'4	305	29	5	5	16	31	1	2	2.5	B
RT	Brandon Gorin	6'6	308	28	5	5	8	18	3	2	2	C

Key Backups: C Russ Hochstein, G/T Nick Kazcur, T Ryan O'Callaghan [r], G Dan Stevenson [r]

Over the past few seasons the Patriots have lost a few quality lineman to other teams around the NFL such as Joe Andruzzi, Damien Woody and this season Tom Ashworth but the starting five is still a decent group led by left tackle Matt Light and left guard Logan Mankins. For the 8th straight year, OL Coach Dante Scarnecchia will lead this group and he has been a very good leader over that span. Light missed all but three games last season and his absence was a huge blow to this unit. He isn’t an elite player but is intelligent with good technique and is the best lineman remaining on the team. Mankins, a rookie last season showcased why the Patriots were so high on him by playing in all sixteen games and doing a very solid job. He should continue to improve this season and his tenacity is second to none. Steve Neal, the former collegiate wrestler has come into his own as a lineman over the past two seasons. He has great leverage and his technique continues to improve. He was very effective last year. Brandon Gorin has been a starting tackle at times over the past couple of seasons and will get his chance once again this year. However 2nd year player Nick Kazcur may push him for the job with a great camp.

Bottom Line: This unit has been coached well and the schemes in place are outstanding. This unit won’t be confused as one of the best ones in the NFL, but expect more of the same in 2006.

New Orleans Saints
Overall Score: 30 / 50
Grade: C / Rank: 27th

2005 Statistics: Run block rank: 19th, Pass block rank: 17th, Overall rank 18th

Key Additions: C Jeff Faine (Cleveland), G/T – Jonathon Goodwin (NY Jets)
Key Losses: T Wayne Gandy (Atlanta), C LeCharles Bentley (Cleveland)

Projected Starters:

Pos	Name	Ht	Wt	Age	Exp	Yrs-Tm	GS '05	GSC	FS	Hld	SA	Ind. Grade
LT	Jammal Brown	6'6	313	25	2	2	13	13	6	2	3.5	B
LG	Montrae Holland	6'2	322	26	4	4	10	30	3	2	1.5	C+
C	Jeff Faine	6'3	291	25	4	4	14	36	0	2	1.5	C+
RG	Jermane Mayberry	6'4	325	33	11	2	8	104	2	0	6	C+
RT	Jon Stinchcomb (inj. Knee)	6'5	315	27	3	3	0	0	-