Which Steeler Could Be Worthy of the Protector Of The Year Award?

The NFL announced yesterday the introduction of a prestigious new end-of-season award, the Protector of the Year Award, which will be presented annually to recognize the league's top offensive lineman.

With this in mind, we took a deep dive into the Steelers’ current roster of offensive linemen to identify three potential candidates who could contend for this honor—either in its inaugural season or in the near future. After careful consideration, we determined that these players have the skill and potential to win this award someday.

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Zach Frazier

By all metrics, Frazier stands out as the top offensive lineman on the Steelers' roster—and he proved it in just his rookie season. Not only did he allow only 12 quarterback pressures across 585 pass-blocking snaps, but his true pass-blocking grade of 60.2 ranked 13th among all centers in the NFL last season. Adding to his impressive résumé, he surrendered just one sack in his debut campaign, making him a clear front-runner compared to his peers.

Given that he's already being mentioned among the top centers in the league, it’s clear that Frazier has all the tools to compete for the Protector of the Year award in the future.

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Isaac Seumalo

Despite battling injuries last season, Seumalo remains one of the Steelers' most dependable offensive linemen. Over 468 pass-blocking snaps, he allowed just two sacks while surrendering 26 quarterback pressures—solid numbers for any lineman, let alone one navigating a "down season." If this was considered a step back for him, then his 2023 performance is worth revisiting, where he allowed zero sacks and posted an elite 97.6 pass-blocking efficiency rating.

Sure, he may not be the spry young blocker he once was, but let’s be honest—offensive linemen age like fine whiskey, not cheap soda. With plenty of gas left in the tank, Seumalo still has a legitimate shot at making a run for the Protector of the Year award.

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Wildcard Pick: Broderick Jones

So, you see this name and think, "Wait... why him?" Valid question.

Jones has yet to play a full season in his natural position at left tackle, and when he does, he may prove why he was so highly regarded coming out of Georgia. Need proof? Look no further than Week 5 of his rookie year (2023), when he dominated against the Baltimore Ravens like a seasoned vet.

Yes, his technique still has some wobbles. Yes, he allowed 10 sacks in 2024. But here’s the the thing to remember—70% of those sacks came in the first half of the season. That tells us one important thing: he improves exponentially over time. If Jones can develop into the player he was projected to be, his future could very well include a Protector of the Year trophy with his name on it.