Joe Thuney Named Protector of the Year
Joe Thuney, the left guard for the Chicago Bears, has made history by winning the first-ever Protector of the Year award at the NFL Honors ceremony. This accolade is reserved for the NFL’s top offensive lineman, celebrating their vital role in ensuring team success through protection and durability.
About the Protector of the Year Award
The Protector of the Year award acknowledges the often-overlooked contributions of offensive linemen. Favorable performances by these players are essential for a team’s progression in competitive play.
Voting Panel
A distinguished panel comprising former NFL offensive linemen cast votes for this prestigious award. The members included:
- LeCharles Bentley
- Jason Kelce
- Shaun O’Hara
- Orlando Pace
- Will Shields
- Andrew Whitworth
Finalists for the Award
Thuney faced stiff competition from other talented linemen. The finalists for the award included:
- Garett Bolles (Broncos, left tackle)
- Quinn Meinerz (Broncos, right guard)
- Aaron Brewer (Dolphins, center)
- Creed Humphrey (Chiefs, center)
- Penei Sewell (Lions, right tackle)
Thuney’s Achievements
In addition to winning the Protector of the Year award, Joe Thuney earned recognition as a first-team All-Pro and made the Pro Bowl. As a team captain, he played a significant role in leading the Bears to secure the NFC North title. Furthermore, the team advanced to the NFC divisional round during the postseason.
Impact on the Bears’ Performance
Thuney was instrumental in strengthening the Bears’ offensive line, contributing to remarkable team statistics:
- Fewest giveaways in the league: 11
- Third-best rushing offense
- Allowed only 24 sacks, ranking third-fewest in the league
Joe Thuney’s recognition as the inaugural Protector of the Year highlights not just his individual contributions, but also the pivotal role of offensive linemen in achieving overall team success in the NFL.
