Most Improved Offensive Lines

May 13, 2008 at 7:28 am | Article by Paul Hickey |

Houston’s Duane Brown was one of eight offensive tackles were taken in the first round of the 2008 NFL Draft, and an additional 26 offensive linemen were selected in rounds 2-7. The reason for the early run on the position seems to be simple - apparently they’re impossible to get in free agency. But drafting new ones isn’t always the best way to improve the five man unit. A few NFL teams have gone above and beyond to try to protect their quarterbacks, and open up holes for their rushers heading into 2008.

An offensive line can either be the most overrated reason not to draft a solid fantasy running back, or the most overlooked factor when searching for a sleeper prospect. Obviously, improved protection doesn’t simply benefit running backs, but also QBs and pass catchers. When St. Louis’ Orlando Pace went down last season with a shoulder injury, the entire Rams offense struggled. But, when the units in Green Bay and Jacksonville gelled last season, RBs Ryan Grant, Fred Taylor and Maurice Jones-Drew, and QB David Garrard all benefited HUGE. It can’t hurt to start looking at last season’s worst units, and analyzing which ones have improved the most.

1. Houston Texans - As mentioned, many teams drafted offensive linemen early this year, but that’s not the only key to improving an offensive line. In addition to snagging OT Duane Brown from Virginia Tech, they brought in OL coach Alex Gibbs, originator of the zone blocking scheme that helped turn several Denver Broncos no-namers into 1,000 yard rushers. Look for a breakout fantasy candidate to emerge from Houston this year, and we like Chris Taylor or Steve Slaton best. Gibbs’ presence will also open up the passing game for Matt Schaub, Andre Johnson and Owen Daniels to have huge seasons.

2. New York Jets - The Jets’ running game, and offense in general, struggled big time in 2007. As a result, they signed free agent LG Alan Faneca from Pittsburgh, and brought in offensive line guru Bill Callahan as assistant head coach. Also, 2006 first rounders Nick Mangold and D’Brickashaw Ferguson are finally coming of age, and should really step up to the plate in their third NFL season.

3. Kansas City Chiefs - The Chiefs made a great move trading up to 15th overall in the NFL Draft to snag versatile Virginia offensive lineman Branden Albert. Albert can play both guard and tackle, and will finally give Larry Johnson a solid beast to run behind. The Chiefs line was in such desperate need, and Albert is just what the doctor ordered. New offensive coordinator Chan Gailey will give special attention to the front five, and put them in position to succeed.

4. Atlanta Falcons - Most people don’t realize it, but the main reason that Atlanta’s offensive line was so pitiful last year was due to injuries to tackles Renardo Foster and Todd Weiner. The departure of offensive coordinator Greg Knapp didn’t help at all either. Under new, run-friendly offensive coordinator Mike Mularkey, things should be looking up. Many draftniks felt the Falcons shouldn’t have paid so much to trade up for USC OT Sam Baker, but I believe he’s just what the doctor ordered. Baker will end up being one of the best linemen to come out of the 2008 Draft. He’ll give the Falcons a solid franchise left tackle, as well as create depth at a key position.

5. Miami Dolphins - The addition of number one overall pick Jake Long is huge, and could have a similar affect as that of Joe Thomas in Cleveland last season. The addition of TE Anthony Fasano should really help take a burden off of the rest of the blockers. Center is still a concern, but in general, the Dolphins offense should be able to function much better than they did in 2007.

6. St. Louis Rams - The Rams will benefit from Orlando Pace returning healthy, and third round draft pick John Greco, a tackle from Toledo. Greco will compete to start at right tackle, after playing left tackle in college. Center Richie Incognito also suffered through injuries last season, and if he can stay on the field in 2008, the Rams’ unit will be greatly improved.

We will continue to monitor offensive line units and their potential impact on fantasy football in 2008.