As fans, we watch offensive linemen face off with the defense each week. We know what those stats say and what we see, but who do the players feel are the toughest NFL players to block?
Offensive Linemen Talk Toughest NFL Players To Block
Five current and former players were brave enough to share the toughest players they’ve ever encountered. Hopefully, the current players don’t face off against their choices; the best can smell fear from the other side of the scrimmage line.
Asking the O-Linemen who was the toughest guy they’ve ever had to block 👀 @OLMasterminds pic.twitter.com/Qla7HYncIW
— NFL (@NFL) July 20, 2023
Who Do the O-Linemen Choose as the Toughest NFL Players To Block?
Carolina Panther Ikem Ekwonu has only played one season in the NFL, but even the rookie OT knows that Cleveland Browns DE Myles Garrett is one of the fiercest defensive ends in the league.
Lane Johnson, an offensive tackle for the Philadelphia Eagles, named Las Vegas Raiders pass rusher Maxx Crosby as the toughest NFL player to block. Johnson was drafted in 2013, but Crosby, who entered the league in 2019, is still the player who keeps him up at night.
Crosby is nothing nice on the field. Johnson cites his “motor,” “versatile moves,” and “dynamic run game” as the combination that makes Crosby such a threat.
Kansas City Chief guard Trey Smith says the toughest NFL player he has blocked is Los Angeles Rams defensive tackle Aaron Donald. A lot of people would agree with you, Trey — just ask former New Orleans Saints QB Drew Brees and Denver Broncos Russell Wilson’s fingers.
The Toughest NFL Player To Block
Two former players weigh in on the toughest NFL players to block, and they both chose the same one. Who is the fearsome talent? Former defensive tackle and Hall of Famer John Randle. Randle played for the Minnesota Vikings from 1990 to 2000 and the Seattle Seahawks from 2001 to 2003.
Former guard Steve Hutchinson was a Seahawk with Randle. The Hall of Famer was grateful that he never had to play against Randle in a game because the practices were enough. He said the DT was as tough as it gets.
Hall of Famer Will Shields also weighed in on who was the toughest guy to block during his career. Shields was a guard for the Kansas City Chiefs for 14 seasons, so he has a wide selection of players to choose from.
Shields had no doubts, though, that Randle was the guy. Shields is quick to remind us that Randle is a great guy but terrible to face on the field. Good save, Shields, good save!
