In a season where versatility on the field is more valuable than ever, several NFL teams are increasingly relying on their sixth offensive linemen to bolster their offensive strategies. Players like Spencer Anderson of the Pittsburgh Steelers have emerged as key contributors, showcasing the importance of these versatile athletes in modern football.
During the pregame introductions of the Week 11 matchup against the Cincinnati Bengals, Anderson received a unique honor when he was announced first despite not being one of the traditional five starters. The 2023 seventh-round draft pick has carved out a niche as the Steelers’ designated sixth man, pivotal in the team’s jumbo package. “We came back from warmups and the coaches were like, ‘We’re announcing the lineup, Spence, you’re first,’” Anderson recounted. His ability to serve multiple roles, from blocking tight end to eligible receiver, has made him an indispensable asset for the Steelers.
Anderson’s contributions reflect a broader trend across the league. In fact, teams have utilized six offensive linemen in 1,521 plays this season, the highest number in nearly a decade. The NFL has even announced plans to introduce a Protector of the Year Award by the end of the 2025 season, aimed at recognizing the often-overlooked contributions of offensive linemen.
Rising Stars in the Jumbo Package
The fraternity of sixth offensive linemen includes a diverse group of players who have embraced their unique roles. Dan Skipper of the Detroit Lions has had his share of challenges, including a controversial call in a December 2023 game against the Dallas Cowboys that nullified a potential game-winning play. Skipper emphasized that the role of a sixth man requires a deep understanding of both offensive line and skill player responsibilities. He explained, “When you’re in the offensive line, you understand formations, but as a tight end, you have to know shifts, motions, and everything else.”
Meanwhile, Kelvin Beachum of the Arizona Cardinals has adapted to a fluctuating role following injuries to key players. Beachum noted, “The product of the National Football League, it’s a 100% injury rate. We’ve tried to adapt with the obvious.” The Cardinals have used a sixth offensive lineman on 137 plays this season, and their success, with 11 touchdowns in jumbo formations, speaks to the effectiveness of this strategy.
Making History with Versatility
The Kansas City Chiefs have also benefited from the talents of Wanya Morris, a 2023 No. 92 draft pick. Morris demonstrated his skills by catching a 1-yard touchdown pass from quarterback Patrick Mahomes in September 2024, becoming a rare example of a sixth offensive lineman contributing directly to the scoreline. “You dream about catching a touchdown. I guess that’s just one of the dreams I scratched off the list early,” Morris said.
Similarly, Matt Pryor, a 2018 No. 206 draft pick for the Philadelphia Eagles, has shown remarkable adaptability, having played nearly every position on the offensive line. This season, he has significantly contributed to the Eagles’ rushing game, helping them achieve an impressive 7.4 yards per rush when utilizing an extra lineman.
The Houston Texans lead the league in using an extra offensive lineman, deploying one in 169 plays this season. Blake Fisher, selected No. 59 in the 2024 draft, has stepped up in this role, facilitating a strong offensive performance that has included multiple touchdowns.
As NFL teams continue to innovate, the contributions of these sixth offensive linemen become increasingly vital. Their ability to adapt and execute diverse roles not only enhances their teams’ performance but also highlights the evolving nature of football strategy in the modern era.
