2024 NFL Offensive Line Rankings: Who’s Really Dominating the Trenches Ahead of Week 11?
As we enter Week 11 of the 2024 NFL season, the battle in the trenches has never been more intense. The offensive line remains the cornerstone of any successful team, but when it comes to rankings, opinions diverge wildly. While some teams continue to dominate up front, others have faltered—despite hefty investments in their offensive line units. With the importance of a strong O-line, let’s break down the controversial choices that have stirred up debates in NFL circles.
1. Kansas City Chiefs – Overrated or Just Efficient?
The Chiefs’ offensive line might seem like a lock for the top spot in the rankings, given their Super Bowl win just a year ago. Anchored by superstar tackle Orlando Brown Jr. (now departed), they’ve leaned on Joe Thuney and Creed Humphrey to maintain balance and protection for Patrick Mahomes. However, critics argue that the Chiefs’ line gets inflated credit due to Mahomes’ extraordinary playmaking ability, masking some weaknesses in pass protection. Isaiah Pacheco, while explosive, has not had the same lanes open for him as some of his peers, especially when Mahomes isn’t escaping defenders.
While the Chiefs’ offensive line is good, it’s not always as dominant as some analysts suggest. They may rank high for being efficient, but not for their true ability to overpower defenses consistently.
2. Philadelphia Eagles – Does Depth Equal Greatness?
The Eagles’ offensive line has been heralded as the NFL’s best for years, boasting heavy hitters like Lane Johnson and Jason Kelce, as well as emerging talent like Jordan Mailata. But here’s where the controversy begins: Is the Eagles’ line really the league’s best, or do they simply look dominant because they have one of the most effective rushing games in recent memory? Their ability to lean on a punishing run game, especially behind Jalen Hurts, often leaves defenders out of position, making their O-line look better than it truly is in pass protection.
This year, with Isaac Seumalo’s departure, some of the continuity has been lost, and the line has been vulnerable to teams with great defensive fronts, such as the 49ers and Cowboys. The Eagles are still a top-tier unit, but their ranking as the number one O-line is debatable.
3. Dallas Cowboys – The Love-Hate Relationship Continues
When it comes to the Dallas Cowboys’ offensive line, it’s hard to find an unbiased opinion. On one hand, Tyron Smith is a future Hall of Famer when healthy. On the other hand, this line has been wildly inconsistent, especially in big games. Critics argue that the Cowboys’ offensive line is a product of the team’s heavy reliance on Dak Prescott’s quick release and Tony Pollard’s ability to create yards after contact. When it comes to pure dominance, the Cowboys’ offensive line doesn’t always win on the first contact, often allowing pressure to build up as the game progresses.
Furthermore, Tyron Smith’s age and injury history cast a shadow over the Cowboys’ O-line as one of the top units. They might be ranked high, but are they truly among the elite? Their erratic performances leave room for skepticism.
4. New York Jets – The Most Overhyped Group?
The Jets’ offensive line was supposed to be a rejuvenated force with the arrival of Aaron Rodgers, yet the group has been underwhelming, and frankly, overrated. The addition of Billy Turner and the drafting of Joe Tippmann seemed like solid moves, but the reality is that the Jets’ line has been plagued by inconsistency. Sure, there’s talent with Mekhi Becton and Alijah Vera-Tucker, but those high-ceiling players have yet to gel into a top-tier unit. Zach Wilson, although a whipping boy for many, has had far less protection than he should expect for the weapons around him.
With Rodgers now out for the season and Breece Hall facing tough running lanes, the line has been exposed. The Jets’ O-line ranking continues to be inflated by their early-season expectations, but the truth is, they are not the dominant force many expected.
5. San Francisco 49ers – Dominance Meets Divisive Rankings
It’s tough to argue against the 49ers’ offensive line, which has consistently produced solid performances, particularly in the run game. Anchored by Trent Williams, the best tackle in the league, this unit is often credited for Christian McCaffrey’s incredible yardage and Brock Purdy’s quick success. However, let’s be honest—if Purdy weren’t blessed with such a strong supporting cast (including the O-line), would he have achieved as much success? This raises the question: Does the 49ers’ offensive line deserve the high rankings based on its individual talent, or does it thrive in a system that maximizes its potential?
While the unit remains elite, there’s an argument that the team’s offensive line is propped up by an ultra-efficient scheme rather than raw dominance.
6. Miami Dolphins – Speed Over Strength?
The Dolphins’ offensive line has made headlines this season with their ability to create explosive plays for Tua Tagovailoa and the league’s most dynamic offense. But when it comes to pure offensive line rankings, this group is somewhat overrated. Terron Armstead is a standout talent, but the overall line often struggles in short-yardage and red-zone situations, where strength and power are critical. Against more aggressive defenses, Miami’s line can’t always hold up, especially with Raheem Mostert seeing diminishing returns from the line’s inability to open consistent holes.
Are the Dolphins ranked this high because of the flashy plays, or is their line truly a game-changer?
7. Cincinnati Bengals – Finally Living Up to the Hype?
After years of investing in offensive line talent, including La’el Collins and Orlando Brown Jr., the Bengals’ line has taken a huge leap forward. Still, they remain one of the most divisive groups in the NFL. While they’ve improved compared to years past, there are still moments where Joe Burrow’s pocket collapses quickly, especially against elite defenses like the Ravens and Steelers. This O-line may not deserve a spot in the top tier yet, even if some recent performances suggest they’re getting closer.
Final Thoughts: The NFL Offensive Line Rankings Are Always Subject to Change
While the teams mentioned above will remain contenders for top spots in the NFL’s offensive line rankings, it’s crucial to remember that these rankings are fluid. The line between greatness and mediocrity in the trenches is razor-thin. Many top units have been buoyed by strong systems, others by individual brilliance. As we look to Week 11, these rankings will continue to evolve—but one thing remains clear: the offensive line battle in the NFL is far from settled, and the debate will rage on.
