The Best Offensive Linemen on the Draft Radar

30 December 2025

When it comes to the NFL Draft, flashy quarterbacks and explosive wide receivers tend to steal the spotlight. But let’s be real—without a solid offensive line, those star players wouldn’t have the time or space to shine. If you’re a football fanatic, you already know that offensive linemen are the backbone of any successful team.

This year's draft class is stacked with talented big men in the trenches, all ready to dominate at the next level. So, who are the top offensive linemen turning heads ahead of the draft? Let’s break it down.

Why Offensive Linemen Are So Valuable

Before we dive into the names, let’s take a second to appreciate what offensive linemen actually do.

These guys aren’t just big bodies taking up space. They’re responsible for protecting the quarterback, paving the way for running backs, and ensuring the offense can function smoothly. A weak offensive line can make even the best skill players look average, while an elite one can turn a solid offense into an unstoppable force.

Think about legendary offenses—Joe Montana’s 49ers, Tom Brady’s Patriots, or Peyton Manning’s Colts. What did they all have in common? Dominant offensive lines. That’s why scouts and general managers spend months analyzing these prospects, trying to find the next great anchor up front.

Now, let’s get to the good stuff—the best offensive linemen on the draft radar.

1. Joe Alt (OT, Notre Dame)

If you’ve been following college football, Joe Alt is a name that’s impossible to ignore. Standing at 6’8” and weighing 322 pounds, he’s a towering presence with elite footwork and technique.

Why He’s a Top Prospect

- Elite Pass Protection: Alt’s quickness and balance make him one of the best blindside protectors in college football.
- NFL Pedigree: His father, John Alt, was a Pro Bowl tackle for the Kansas City Chiefs, so football runs in his blood.
- Versatility: He thrives at left tackle but has the skill set to shift inside if needed.

Best Fit

Alt is the type of player who could step in and start from day one. Teams needing a franchise left tackle—like the Chicago Bears or New York Giants—should have him high on their draft board.

2. Olu Fashanu (OT, Penn State)

When you talk about raw athleticism on the offensive line, Olu Fashanu has to be in the conversation. He’s got the size (6’6”, 317 lbs) and the quickness to dominate in both the run and pass game.

Why He’s a Top Prospect

- Incredible Footwork: His ability to mirror pass rushers is second to none.
- Physical Strength: He bulldozes defenders as a run blocker and holds his ground in pass protection.
- High IQ: Fashanu understands defensive schemes and reacts quickly, making him a coach’s favorite.

Best Fit

A team like the Tennessee Titans or Washington Commanders could snatch him up early, looking for a franchise tackle to build around.

3. JC Latham (OT, Alabama)

Alabama linemen have a strong history of making waves in the NFL, and JC Latham looks like the next one in line. At 6’6” and 360 pounds, he’s a monster in the trenches.

Why He’s a Top Prospect

- Rare Combination of Size and Speed: Latham’s agility at his size is almost unheard of.
- Nasty Streak: He plays with that mean, aggressive edge that coaches love.
- Run-Blocking Dominance: If you want to establish the ground game, this is your guy.

Best Fit

Any run-heavy team—like the Baltimore Ravens or Atlanta Falcons—would love to have him mauling defenders up front.

4. Amarius Mims (OT, Georgia)

Coming out of Georgia, Amarius Mims has all the tools to be an elite tackle at the next level. Though he battled injuries during his college career, his upside is through the roof.

Why He’s a Top Prospect

- Massive Size: At 6’7”, 340 lbs, he’s built like a wall.
- Explosive Power: When he gets his hands on defenders, they rarely get away.
- Untapped Potential: With the right coaching, Mims could develop into an All-Pro tackle.

Best Fit

Mims might need some time to develop, but a team like the New England Patriots or Seattle Seahawks, where he can learn behind a veteran, would be an ideal landing spot.

5. Troy Fautanu (OL, Washington)

If versatility is what you’re after, Troy Fautanu should be high on your list. He’s played multiple positions across the offensive line and excelled in all of them.

Why He’s a Top Prospect

- Position Flexibility: Teams love his ability to play both tackle and guard.
- High Football IQ: He understands defensive adjustments and picks up blitzes well.
- Athleticism: Moves exceptionally well in space, making him great for zone-blocking schemes.

Best Fit

A team like the Green Bay Packers or Miami Dolphins—who value versatility on the offensive line—would be a great fit.

What Makes a Great Offensive Lineman?

So, what separates good linemen from great ones? Here are a few key traits that NFL scouts prioritize:

✅ Footwork – A lineman’s ability to move laterally and stay balanced is crucial.
✅ Hand Technique – Winning the hand battle helps keep defensive linemen in check.
✅ Strength & Power – The ability to drive defenders back and control the trenches.
✅ Football IQ – Awareness of blitzes, stunts, and defensive schemes.
✅ Toughness & Mentality – The best linemen play with grit and a mean streak.

Final Thoughts

While quarterbacks and wide receivers get all the attention, the real magic happens in the trenches. This year’s draft class has a deep pool of offensive line talent, and these guys are ready to step in and change the game.

Whether your favorite team needs a pass protector or a road grader for the run game, this draft has something for everyone. Keep an eye on these names because they’ll be making a difference on Sundays sooner rather than later.

Which lineman do you think will have the biggest impact in the NFL? Sound off in the comments!