The Protector of the Year award, created in large part to honor offensive linemen who often go unrecognized, honors six finalists this year, with Buffalo Bills left tackle Dion Dawkins helping to champion the initiative and NFL leadership backing the effort.
Thuney expressed humility at being named a finalist during an interview with CHGO Bears around Pro Bowl week, highlighting Dawkins and Commissioner Roger Goodell for driving the award and noting the honor of being recognized among his peers.
Statistically, Thuney did not allow a sack all season and played a central role in the Bears’ league-leading 48.1% run-play success rate, underscoring his influence in both pass protection and run blocking.
His versatility was on full display in the postseason, moving from left guard for the majority of the year to left tackle in the divisional round against the Rams and effectively stifling the Rams’ pass rush on the left side at age 33.
Thuney also touched on a broader debate about linemen recognition, acknowledging that while some players dislike attention, the Protector of the Year initiative helps celebrate the up-front players who form the foundation of a team’s success.
As the oldest finalist and a model of durability and leadership, Thuney’s role with the Bears highlights the importance of the offensive line in driving the team’s performance and the league’s renewed emphasis on recognizing linemen contributions.
