Exciting Weekend Rankings for NFL Interior Linemen
This past weekend, ESPN analyst Jeremy Fowler unveiled his 2025 rankings for NFL players, derived from a poll of executives, coaches, and scouts across the league. While it was unfortunate that no Kansas City Chiefs players made it to the top 10 offensive tackles list, three standout Chiefs made their mark in the ranking of interior offensive linemen released on Saturday.
Top Interior Offensive Linemen from the Chiefs
1. Creed Humphrey
Highest ranking: 1
Lowest ranking: 10
Age: 26
Last year’s ranking: 7
Last season, Humphrey showcased his skills as arguably the best center in the league since Jason Kelce. His top position in this year's rankings highlights his consistency. Remarkably, Humphrey appeared on every ballot and was ranked within the top three by most voters.
His impressive 96.2% pass block win rate last season places him sixth among all interior offensive linemen, and he serves as the key communicator for a team poised for championships. His reputation for intangibles precedes him.
“He excels in pass protection with great footwork and instincts,” noted an NFL coordinator. “He may not be a dominant force in the run game, but he’s certainly capable. He manages chaos well and navigates many moving parts within the offense.”
Humphrey recorded a solid 73.2% run block win rate, overcoming challenges experienced in the previous season. During the Super Bowl, his performance suffered slightly due to adjustments like Joe Thuney sliding to left tackle, necessitating added help in protection.
Despite acknowledging weaknesses, a coordinator mentioned, “If you can isolate him one-on-one, you might have some success. But generally speaking, that’s a rare occurrence. He didn’t allow quick pressures on over 650 pass-blocking snaps last regular season.”
4. Trey Smith
Highest ranking: 1
Lowest ranking: Unranked
Age: 26
Last year’s ranking: 9
The Kansas City franchise tagged Smith at $23.4 million, reflecting the organization’s high regard for his talent. Known for often being salary cap-strapped, the Chiefs usually let high-profile free agents walk, but Smith's unique skills were too valuable to lose.
“He’s a powerhouse — not just capable of moving opponents but also stopping them,” an AFC executive remarked.
Initially considered a first-round talent in 2021, Smith fell to the sixth round due to concerns regarding a heart condition identified during his time at Tennessee. However, he has persevered and evolved into a premier player.
With a notable 75.1% run block win rate, Smith ranks third among this group, garnering several first-place votes. An NFL coordinator emphasized, “He possesses elite hand skills and excels at finishing blocks.”
While Smith faced challenges during the Super Bowl loss against Philadelphia, it’s essential to remember that the entire Chiefs line struggled that evening, and this game won't define his career.
6. Joe Thuney
Highest ranking: 1
Lowest ranking: Unranked
Age: 32
Last year’s ranking: 4
One of the standout moments of the 2024 NFL season was Thuney’s successful transition from guard to left tackle in the latter part of the season. Faced with a tight situation, his steady performance helped stabilize the offensive line. Coach Andy Reid praised Thuney's adaptability, highlighting that he never voiced complaints during this challenging adjustment.
Statistically, Thuney consistently ranks among the best, boasting a 96.4% pass block win rate—ranking him tied for first among guards. His versatility shone brightly over the last season.
“He’s a complete package: speed, athleticism, hand placement, toughness, and instincts,” commented an AFC executive. “While power may be a slight weakness, his versatility isn't.”
Coaches often mention his elite grip strength; once he engages with a defensive lineman, it’s tough to shake him off.
“With Joe, it’s all about technique, instincts, and smarts,” remarked another AFC executive. “While his physical abilities may be waning, his football IQ remains remarkable.”
Analyzing the Chiefs' Interior Line Decisions
These rankings reflect the strategic decisions made by the Chiefs regarding their offensive line over the last year.
Humphrey’s position as the league’s top interior offensive lineman explains the four-year, $72 million contract he signed last August. With Smith ranking among the top five, the franchise tag placed on him indicates the team's commitment to a long-term deal with this talented former Tennessee standout. While Thuney now sits just outside the top five and has aged, his recent trade to the Bears yielded the salary cap flexibility the Chiefs needed to acquire left tackle Jaylon Moore on a two-year, $30 million contract. Moore is now seen as a dependable backup for rookie Josh Simmons, who is recovering from an injury while adapting to the NFL atmosphere.
It’s always satisfying to witness a plan come together! 🎉
However, challenges remain. As of now, there has yet to be an agreement between Smith and the Chiefs regarding a new contract. With Smith playing under the $23.4 million franchise tag—signed in March—he stands as a costly option while the team evaluates the contracts of key players like cornerback Trent McDuffie and defensive end George Karlaftis. On the flip side, second-year player Kingsley Suamatia and veteran undrafted free agent Mike Caliendo will compete to fill the significant role previously held by Thuney on the left side of the line.
Ultimately, it is clear that over the past few seasons, Kansas City has showcased a remarkable group of interior offensive linemen, contributing greatly to the team’s success. 🏈💪