NFL 2014: Protecting The Quarterback
NFL 2014: Protecting The Quarterback

 

Protecting the quarterback is vital to NFL success.

With such a premium placed on keeping the quarterback out of harm's way, it is no surprise that teams have made it a priority to draft offensive tackles. Four offensive tackles -- Greg Robinson (No. 2, St. Louis), JAke Matthews (No. 6, Atlanta), Taylor Lewan (No. 11, Tennessee) and Ja'wuan James (No. 19, Miami) -- were selected in the first round of the 2014 NFL Draft.

"The passing game starts with pass protection," says Miami Dolphins head coach Joe Philbin. "The pass protection has to be there. It's the foundation of the passing game and gives the quarterback a chance to make better decisions and throw the ball with more accuracy when he has more time."

In all, there have been 11 offensive tackles selected in the first round of the past three NFL Drafts.

"Football teams are built from the inside-out," says St. Louis Rams general manager Les Snead, who selected tackle Robinson No. 2 overall. "Our foundation is stronger and I think that's going to help us."

Offensive tackles selected in the first round of the past three NFL drafts:

Greg Robinson St. Louis - 2014 (2nd overall)

Jake Matthews Atlanta - 2014 (6th overall)

Taylor Lewan Tennessee - 2014 (11th overall)

Ja'Wuan James Miami - 2014 (19th overall)

Eric Fisher Kansas City - 2013 (1st overall)

Luke Joeckel Jacksonville - 2013 (2nd overall)

Lane Johnson Philadelphia - 2013 (4th overall)

D.J. Fluker San Diego - 2013 (11th overall)

Justin Pugh NY Giants - 2013 (19th overall)

Matt Kalil Minnesota - 2012 (4th overall)

Riley Reiff Detroit - 2012 (23rd overall)

 

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NFL 2014 - Protecting The Quarterback