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Top 20 Highest Paid Offensive Linemen in the NFL for 2023

Hello, everyone. I’m excited to explore the world of NFL offensive lineman with you. As an avid football fan, I’ve always appreciated the game’s unseen heroes—the linemen who work relentlessly to protect their quarterbacks and clear the way for explosive runs.

Today, we look at the top 20 highest-paid offensive linemen in the NFL for 2023. These athletes demonstrate talent, power, and strategic prowess, fetching high pay that reflects their invaluable contributions to their respective teams.

From seasoned veterans to budding stars, each lineman on this list brings a distinct combination of athleticism and elegance to the game. Join me as we look at the financial environment of these great protectors and examine their impact on the game we all love.

1. Trent Williams (San Francisco 49ers): $23.01 million

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Trent Williams, born July 19, 1988, is an NFL offensive tackle for the San Francisco 49ers. He gained fame at Oklahoma, becoming an All-American before the Washington Redskins drafted him fourth overall in 2010.

Renowned as one of the league’s premier tackles, he boasts eleven Pro Bowl appearances and four All-Pro selections. In 2019, Williams protested the Redskins, citing contractual and health concerns, notably a cancerous growth initially downplayed by the team but later deemed life-threatening by private doctors. This led to his trade to the 49ers in 2020, ending a contentious standoff.

2. Zack Martin (Dallas Cowboys): $20 million

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Zack Martin, born November 20, 1990, is a standout guard for the Dallas Cowboys in the NFL. Hailing from Indianapolis, Indiana, he excelled at Bishop Chatard High School before shining at Notre Dame.

Drafted by the Cowboys in 2014, he quickly established himself as a force, earning numerous Pro Bowl and All-Pro selections. Martin’s consistency and skill led to a lucrative contract extension in 2018.

Despite occasional injuries, he remains a linchpin for the Cowboys, showcasing versatility by starting at different positions. In 2022, Martin’s stellar performance earned him another All-Pro nod and a Pro Bowl selection, solidifying his status as one of the league’s premier offensive linemen.

3. Lane Johnson (Philadelphia Eagles): $18 million

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David Lane Johnson, born May 8, 1990, is a prominent offensive tackle for the Philadelphia Eagles in the NFL. Hailing from Groveton, Texas, Johnson excelled in football and track at Groveton High School.

He began his college career at Kilgore College before transferring to the University of Oklahoma. Drafted fourth overall by the Eagles in 2013, Johnson quickly made an impact, earning accolades such as Pro Bowl selections and a Super Bowl ring.

Despite facing setbacks like suspensions and injuries, he remains a key player for the Eagles, exemplifying resilience and skill on the field. Off the field, Johnson is involved in philanthropy and music ventures, contributing to his community and showcasing diverse talents beyond football.

4. Laremy Tunsil (Houston Texans): $16.5 million

Laremy Tunsil, born August 2, 1994, is an NFL offensive tackle for the Houston Texans. He rose to prominence at Ole Miss, earning accolades like SEC All-Freshman honours.

Despite controversies during the 2016 NFL Draft, Tunsil was selected by the Miami Dolphins. Later traded to the Texans, he secured Pro Bowl nods in 2019 and 2020. Tunsil signed a record-breaking extension with Houston in 2020.

Despite injuries, he maintains his status as one of the league’s premier linemen. Recently, Tunsil inked another lucrative deal with the Texans in 2023, solidifying his place as a cornerstone of their offence.

5. Andrew Thomas (New York Giants): $23.5 million

Andrew Ken Thomas, born January 22, 1999, plays offensive tackle for the New York Giants in the NFL, drafted fourth overall in 2020 from Georgia. In college, he excelled, earning Freshman All-American honours and later becoming a first-team All-American and All-SEC player.

Thomas entered the NFL with high expectations, starting as a left tackle for the Giants. Despite setbacks like an ankle injury in 2021 requiring surgery, he has performed consistently, earning a lucrative contract extension in 2023, setting a new NFL record for offensive linemen. Thomas continues to be a key player for the Giants.

6. David Bakhtiari (Green Bay Packers): $23 million

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David Afrasiab Assad Bakhtiari, born September 30, 1991, in San Mateo, California, plays offensive tackle for the Green Bay Packers. He attended Junípero Serra High School, excelling in football despite a modest ranking.

At the University of Colorado, he earned conference honours and declared for the 2013 NFL Draft after his junior year. Drafted by the Packers, he quickly became a key player, signing lucrative contract extensions.

Despite injuries, including a torn ACL in 2020, he’s been a Pro Bowl talent. Bakhtiari is known for his community involvement and introduced the Packers to Settlers of Catan.

7. Jason Kelce (Philadelphia Eagles): $14.25 million

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Jason Daniel Kelce, born November 5, 1987, is a center for the Philadelphia Eagles in the NFL. Hailing from Cleveland Heights, Ohio, he played college football at Cincinnati. Kelce was drafted in the sixth round of the 2011 NFL Draft by the Eagles.

Throughout his career, he’s earned numerous accolades, including Super Bowl champion, seven Pro Bowl selections, and six First-team All-Pro selections. Known for his tenacity and skill, Kelce is esteemed as one of the greatest centres in NFL history.

Outside football, he co-hosts the podcast “New Heights” with his brother Travis, and has made appearances in TV shows like “It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia” and “Saturday Night Live.” He’s also involved in philanthropic endeavours and has a family with his wife, Kylie.

8. Quenton Nelson (Indianapolis Colts): $13.91 million

Quenton Emerson Nelson, born March 19, 1996, is an NFL guard for the Indianapolis Colts. He attended Notre Dame for college, where he excelled as a unanimous All-American.

Drafted sixth overall by the Colts in the 2018 NFL Draft, Nelson has quickly established himself as one of the premier guards in the league. In his first four seasons, he received Pro Bowl and All-Pro selections, earning first-team All-Pro honours in his first three seasons.

9. Joel Bitonio (Cleveland Browns): $14 million

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Joel Michael Bitonio, born October 11, 1991, plays as an American football guard for the Cleveland Browns in the NFL. Bitonio attended Long Beach Wilson High School in California, excelling in football, basketball, and track & field. He continued his football career at the University of Nevada, starting 39 consecutive games and earning All-Mountain West Conference honours.

Drafted by the Browns in the second round of the 2014 NFL draft, Bitonio has since become a cornerstone of their offensive line, earning six Pro Bowl selections and recognition as an All-Pro player. Off the field, Bitonio’s father, Mike Bitonio, was a mixed martial arts fighter whose memory serves as inspiration.

10. Tristan Wirfs (Tampa Bay Buccaneers): $16.88 million

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Tristan Wirfs, born on January 24, 1999, is an American football offensive tackle for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the NFL. Excelling in football, wrestling, and track and field at Mount Vernon High School, Wirfs garnered attention for his athletic prowess. Committing to Iowa, Wirfs made an immediate impact as a true freshman, starting at right tackle.

Throughout his college career, he earned recognition for his performance, culminating in a First Team All-Big Ten selection. Drafted by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in 2020, Wirfs quickly established himself as a reliable starter, contributing to the team’s Super Bowl LV victory.

11. Joe Thuney (Kansas City Chiefs): $16 million

Joseph Thuney, born on November 18, 1992, grew up in Centerville, Ohio, where he showcased his athletic prowess at Archbishop Alter High School. Excelling in football, Thuney was honoured as the Greater Catholic League Lineman of the Year and led his team to two D4 state championships. Transitioning to college, he attended NC State, where he demonstrated versatility by playing various positions on the offensive line.

Thuney’s exceptional performance earned him All-American recognition and a nomination for the prestigious Campbell Trophy. Selected by the New England Patriots in the 2016 NFL Draft, Thuney quickly became a vital part of the team’s offensive line, contributing to their Super Bowl LI victory. After several successful seasons with the Patriots, Thuney joined the Kansas City Chiefs in 2021, solidifying his reputation as one of the league’s top guards.

12. Ronnie Stanley (Baltimore Ravens): $19.6 million

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Ronnie Stanley, a prominent figure in American football, was born on March 18, 1994. Hailing from Las Vegas, Nevada, Stanley made a significant impact in the sport during his collegiate years at the University of Notre Dame. Excelling as an offensive tackle, he garnered attention for his exceptional skills and athleticism, earning recognition as one of the top prospects in the country.

In the 2016 NFL Draft, Stanley was selected by the Baltimore Ravens with the sixth overall pick, marking the beginning of his professional career. Since then, he has established himself as a cornerstone of the Ravens’ offensive line, demonstrating remarkable consistency and proficiency in protecting the quarterback and facilitating the team’s running game.

13. Taylor Lewan (Tennessee Titans): $16.4 million

Taylor Curtis Lewan, born on July 22, 1991, is a retired American football offensive tackle known for his impactful career in both college and the NFL. Beginning his journey at the University of Michigan, Lewan earned accolades such as first-team All-American honours twice, showcasing his prowess on the field.

In the 2014 NFL Draft, he was selected by the Tennessee Titans, where he continued to excel, earning Pro Bowl selections from 2016 to 2018. Despite encountering injuries in later seasons, Lewan’s contributions remained significant until his retirement.

14. Ryan Jensen (Tampa Bay Buccaneers): $10 million

Ryan jensen 2017 (cropped).jpg , Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

Ryan Jensen, born May 27, 1991, is a retired NFL centre known for his nine-season career. From Rangely, Colorado, Jensen shone at Fort Morgan High School, earning All-State honours. At Colorado State University Pueblo, he excelled, gaining conference accolades.

Drafted by the Baltimore Ravens in 2013, Jensen later joined the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in 2018, becoming the NFL’s highest-paid centre. He played a key role in the Buccaneers’ Super Bowl LV win. Despite injuries, Jensen earned Pro Bowl nods and lucrative contracts. Retiring in 2024, he leaves a legacy of resilience and dedication to football.

15. Frank Ragnow (Detroit Lions): $13.7 million

Frank Ragnow, born on May 17, 1996, is an NFL centre for the Detroit Lions. Hailing from Chanhassen, Minnesota, he excelled in high school as a top offensive tackle prospect. At the University of Arkansas, he showcased versatility, playing as a centre and right guard. In the 2018 NFL Draft, the Lions selected him in the first round, making him the highest-drafted centre from Arkansas.

Ragnow signed a lucrative rookie contract and transitioned to left guard for the Lions. He has since become a key player, earning Pro Bowl honours and a contract extension. Despite setbacks like a toe injury, Ragnow continues to be a cornerstone for the Lions.

16. Wyatt Teller (Cleveland Browns): $15.5 million

Wyatt Teller, born on November 21, 1994, is a guard for the Cleveland Browns in the NFL. His football journey began at Virginia Tech, where he earned All-ACC first-team honours. Teller showcased his skills at the 2018 Senior Bowl and impressed scouts at the NFL Combine. Drafted by the Buffalo Bills in 2018, he quickly transitioned to a starting role in his rookie season.

Later traded to the Cleveland Browns in 2019, Teller solidified his place in the starting lineup, notably contributing to the team’s running game success. His outstanding performance earned him a contract extension in 2021, securing his role with the Browns until 2025.

17. Brandon Scherff (Washington Commanders): $16 million

Brandon Scherff 2019.jpg , Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

Brandon Scherff, born on December 26, 1991, is an accomplished American football guard who now plays for the Jacksonville Jaguars in the NFL. Scherff, who is from Denison, Iowa, showed his athletic ability early on at Denison High School, excelling in football, basketball, and track and field. He committed to Iowa for college, where he won the Outland Trophy as the nation’s finest interior lineman.

Scherff was drafted fifth overall by the Washington Redskins in 2015 and quickly rose to prominence, appearing in numerous Pro Bowls. Despite injuries, his performance remained outstanding, garnering him All-Pro honours. After seven seasons with Washington, he joined the Jacksonville Jaguars in 2022, cementing his status as one of the NFL’s best guards. Off the field, Scherff remains.

18. Ali Villanueva (Pittsburgh Steelers): $10 million

Alejandro Villanueva Martín, born September 22, 1988, is a Spanish-American retired NFL player known for his eight-season career as an offensive tackle. Before the NFL, he excelled academically and served as a captain in the US Army, earning commendations like the Bronze Star Medal. Joining the Pittsburgh Steelers, he became a versatile starter, earning Pro Bowl nods and extending his contract in 2017.

Notably, his stance during the 2017 national anthem controversy sparked dialogue. In 2021, he joined the Baltimore Ravens for his final season before retiring in 2022. Villanueva also earned an MBA and engaged in philanthropy and endorsements, leaving a lasting legacy

19. Garrett Bradbury (Minnesota Vikings): $16 million

Garrett Bradbury, born June 20, 1995, is an American football centre for the NFL‘s Minnesota Vikings. He transitioned from tight end to the offensive line during college at NC State, becoming a consensus All-American and winning the Rimington Trophy in 2018.

Drafted by the Vikings in 2019, Bradbury has been a consistent starter, playing all 16 games in his rookie and sophomore seasons. In 2022, he made a memorable reception reminiscent of the “Immaculate Reception.” Despite the Vikings declining his fifth-year option, Bradbury signed a three-year, $15.7 million contract extension in 2023.

20. Corey Linsley (Los Angeles Chargers): $10.25 million

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Corey Michael Linsley, born July 27, 1991, is an American football centre for the NFL‘s Los Angeles Chargers. Hailing from Boardman, Ohio, he excelled in high school football and track & field. Recruited by Ohio State, he transitioned to centre and became a pivotal player for the team.

Drafted by the Green Bay Packers in 2014, he earned a reputation as a reliable starter, garnering a contract extension in 2017. In 2021, he joined the Chargers on a record-setting contract. Off the field, Linsley is a family man, married to Anna Linsley, with whom he shares two sons.

In conclusion, the top 20 highest-paid offensive linemen in the NFL for 2023 represent a diverse group of talented athletes who exemplify dedication, skill, and resilience. From seasoned veterans to emerging stars, these linemen play a crucial role in shaping the success of their respective teams, both on and off the field. Their impact extends beyond the game of football, influencing communities and inspiring fans worldwide.