10 commandments of the offensive line

USA Football | American Football | 12/05/2017

Offensive line play is a high-level skill that needs to be respected more by those involved with the craft. It’s cute to speak all of the positional jargon to make yourself sound like a true offensive line aficionado. When it’s time to really show what you’re about as a player, these are the rules we need to live by.

1. Respect the process

You live in an era where more information is available to you than ever before. Use your access. Everything about the offensive line is learned. Don’t skip elements of your growth. It will catch up to you later.

2. Respect the work

Just doing what’s required has never been good enough. This is more true than in years past.

3. Respect the skill

Offensive line is a stand-alone skill separate from any other sport, thus requiring special development and unique athletes. Think bigger of yourself.

4. Respect the past

Many great players have already come before you. If you don’t know who they are, you’re lost in the dark.

5. Respect your body

Gone are the days of being viewed as the slovenly fat guys. Fall in love with training and quality eating.

6. Respect the tribe

You’re only as successful as the players around you will allow you to be. Challenge other offensive line athletes to meet and exceed high standards.

7. Respect your career mortality

This game will end. Don’t lose perspective of the fact you’re playing a game. Understand it will all end. Your job is to build as many memories as possible. Enjoy everyday.

8. Respect the game

There is no offensive line play without the game of football. We need this game to stay healthy and evolving. Do your part to make the game better for future generations.

9. Respect the other offensive players

They may not always appreciate you, but the offensive line is a selfless position. Your job is to create a healthy environment for those guys to do their jobs. Protect and serve