The battles fought in the trenches often determine the outcome on the gridiron. In the 2024 NFL season, a select group of elite linemen are dominating these crucial contests at the line of scrimmage. New data from ESPN Analytics, using player tracking from NFL Next Gen Stats, reveals the top performers in pass rush and run stop win rates. These metrics provide a compelling look at which players and teams are controlling the point of attack.
Monstrous Pass Rushers Setting the Edge
When it comes to terrorizing opposing quarterbacks, a few edge rushers stand apart. Leading the way is Detroit Lions standout Aidan Hutchinson. The former 2nd overall pick is winning an incredible 35% of his pass rush snaps this season. Not far behind are Trey Hendrickson of the Bengals and perennial star Myles Garrett of the Browns, each eclipsing 25% pass rush win rates.
But the success of these star edge rushers doesn’t come solely from their individual excellence. A closer look at the data reveals the symbiotic relationship between edge menaces and their interior line mates. Rams stalwart Aaron Donald remains a force, owning a 27% pass rush win rate from the tackle position. Chiefs Pro Bowler Chris Jones isn’t far behind at 22%.
Sack Artists Propelling Defenses
The data underscores how these disruptive presences up front propel team success. Of the top 5 teams in overall defensive pass rush win rate, 4 rank in the top 10 in sacks:
- Denver Broncos (55%)
- Houston Texans (52%)
- Las Vegas Raiders (49%)
- Washington Commanders (49%)
It all starts up front. If those guys are winning their matchups and making the QB uncomfortable, it makes all the difference.
Anonymous NFL defensive coordinator
Trench Warriors Dominating in the Run Game
While pass rushing draws headlines, winning at the point of attack in the run game is equally crucial. The data points to some unheralded interior linemen dictating terms against the run. Nose tackles like the Bengals’ D.J. Reader and Titans’ Teair Tart rarely get much fanfare, but each boast elite run stop win rates over 47%. Likewise, mammoth defensive ends like the Steelers’ Cameron Heyward and Washington’s Jonathan Allen are shutting down rushing lanes with win rates over 40%.
Road Graders Paving the Way
Of course, offensive lines are battling to open those same rushing lanes. And few are doing it better than the Cleveland Browns, who lead the league with an absurd 79% run block win rate as a team. Anchored by guards Joel Bitonio and Wyatt Teller, each winning over 80% of their run blocks, the Browns are setting the standard for ground game dominance. Other teams like the Ravens, Commanders and Colts are also seeing elite run blocking from stalwarts like Ronnie Stanley, Brandon Scherff, and Quenton Nelson respectively.
Those guys make my job easy. I know if I’m patient and hit the hole, it’s going to open up for a big run.
Anonymous NFL running back
Pass Protectors Safeguarding Quarterbacks
The flip side of the pass rush coin is pass protection, where standouts are shining in 2024. Veterans like the Packers’ David Bakhtiari and Buccaneers’ Tristan Wirfs continue to be rocks, each allowing pressure on less than 3% of their pass block snaps. The Broncos invested in their line and are reaping dividends, with Garett Bolles winning 94% of his pass blocks. Emerging youngsters like the Ravens’ Ronnie Stanley and Chargers’ Rashawn Slater also rank among the elite.
The Best Showcase Their Dominance
At the end of the day, the best linemen make their impact felt across all phases. Chiefs DT Chris Jones is a prime example, ranking top 5 in both pass rush and run stop win rate. Likewise, young Giants LT Andrew Thomas is among the league leaders in both pass block and run block success.
As the 2024 season rolls on, these elite linemen will keep battling for superiority in the trenches. With each clash at the line of scrimmage, games and seasons hang in the balance. The war of attrition up front is never-ending and always pivotal. When the dust settles, those consistently winning these underappreciated matchups will likely be the ones still standing, ready to fight on the game’s grandest stage.
