The NFL has created a well-deserved award regarding offensive linemen around the league and it’s long overdue, but better late than never. The NFL Protector of the Year award has been established for all offensive linemen going into the 2025 season and beyond. One of the biggest advocates for the award being created was Buffalo Bills Pro Bowl left tackle Dion Dawkins.
The four-time Pro Bowler has been Josh Allen’s blindside protector throughout his career and has established himself as one of the best tackles in the game. He’s reliable, can get to the second level, and does a great job at creating team chemistry amongst the locker room.
It took him awhile for him to get the respect that he deserved but recently, he is starting to get more noticed every year and it shows just the kind of star he is. However, NFL.com writer Nick Shook recently listed the top ten linemen in the league who could win the new NFL Protector of the Year award and Dawkins was left out of the top ten.
Instead, Dawkins was put in the “also considered” category which is just simply wrong.
Dion Dawkins has fantastic chance to win NFL Protector of the Year award in 2025
Dawkins has been a reliable left tackle throughout his career. He’s only missed six games and has been a starter since his rookie year. He’s been voted as a Pro Bowler the last four consecutive seasons as well. The fact that he wasn’t even in the top ten (even though he should be in the top five) is absolutely ridiculous.
He’s kept Josh Allen upright throughout his career and he is someone that the team, coaches, and fans love and trust. He’s got a great personality and is arguably the second best fan-favorite behind Allen in the city of Buffalo.
Dawkins is more than likely focused on helping the Bills reach the Super Bowl and bringing the Lombardi trophy to Buffalo, but to not even be listed in the top ten for an award that he played a huge role in is very disrespectful.