{"id":391,"date":"2024-03-10T13:05:51","date_gmt":"2024-03-10T17:05:51","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.pro-football-reference.com\/pfr-blog\/?p=391"},"modified":"2026-01-12T16:49:04","modified_gmt":"2026-01-12T20:49:04","slug":"14-best-left-tackles-of-all-time","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.pro-football-reference.com\/pfr-blog\/2024\/03\/14-best-left-tackles-of-all-time\/","title":{"rendered":"Top NFL Left Tackles of All Time"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

(last updated on January 12, 2026)<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Protecting the Blind Side: A Salute to the Greatest Left Tackles in NFL History<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

They stand tall and resolute, guardians of the quarterback’s blind side, facing the fiercest pass rushers with unwavering determination. Left tackles: the unsung heroes of the gridiron, their impact often measured in silence averted rather than sacks recorded. With this in mind, we embark on a journey through the trenches of NFL history, celebrating the titans who have mastered this demanding position, the men who have redefined the art of pass protection.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

From the pioneering prowess of Rosey Brown and Art Shell to modern marvels like Walter Jones and Jonathan Ogden, we’ll delve into the careers of these legendary blockers. We’ll dissect their techniques, analyze their impact on their teams’ success, and relive the iconic moments that cemented their place among the game’s elite.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

But this isn’t just a nostalgic trip down memory lane. We’ll also explore the evolution of the left tackle position, examining how the changing landscapes of offensive and defensive schemes have shaped the skillset required for dominance. Along the way, we’ll uncover hidden gems, debate controversial selections, and spark lively discussions about who deserves the title of “Best Left Tackle in the NFL.”<\/p>\n\n\n\n

So, buckle up, football fans, as we gear up for an in-depth exploration of the men who stood their ground, blew open running lanes, and kept quarterbacks upright.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

How to Recognize the Best Left Tackles in the NFL<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

The statistics and measurables for left tackles in the league are few and far between. After all, what these men in the trenches do goes almost unnoticed unless they do something wrong or blow an assignment. It is often a thankless job, but as the NFL has progressed over the years, the accolades for offensive linemen, in general, have given us some tangible metrics to see the success of the offensive tackle and the men who have staffed the position.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

To help us along the way, we will look at Pro- owl selections, All-Pro counts, Hall of Fame inductions, games started, and years played in the NFL at the position as tangible evidence of the blindside guardians.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Endurance and the Most Quality Snaps<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Those with quality longevity at the LT position have had tough and rigorous jobs in the NFL. These are traditionally some of the most prominent athletes in the league, going against some of the quickest and pound-for-pound strongest guys wearing helmets. Keeping defensive ends and outside edge rushers at bay for dozens of plays per game is no easy chore. The activity eventually takes its toll on the athlete, but some have endured and prospered with fruitful play at left tackle. Tracking for this stat is relatively new, so some older gents may have significant numbers that we cannot appreciate.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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\"Photo\n<\/div>
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\n\t\tTrent Williams<\/a><\/span>\n\t\t\t<\/h2>\n\t\n\n \n \n\n\n\n \n

\n \n Trent Williams\n  (Silverback<\/span>)\n <\/strong>\n<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\n\tPosition<\/strong>: T\n\t\n<\/p>\n\n

6-5<\/span>, 320lb<\/span> (196cm, 145kg) <\/p>\n

Team<\/strong>: San Francisco 49ers<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n\n

\n Born:<\/strong> \n \n\t\tJuly 19<\/a>, 1988\n \n \n in Longview, TX<\/a><\/span>\n \n<\/span\"> (Age: 37-177d)<\/nobr><\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n\n

College<\/strong>: \n \n\t\tOklahoma<\/a>\n\t\n\t\n\t\t (College Stats<\/a>)\n\t\n\n\n\n\n\n<\/p>

Weighted Career AV (100-95-…)<\/a>:<\/strong> 109 (85th overall since 1960)\n<\/p>\n\n\n\n

High School<\/strong>: \n \n\t\tLongview<\/a> (TX<\/a>)\n\t\n<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Draft<\/strong>: Washington Redskins<\/a> in the 1st round (4th overall) of the 2010 NFL Draft<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\t\t\t\n\t\n