Tackle (gridiron football position)

Not to be confused with Tackle (football move) or Defensive tackle.

A tackle (T), also called an offensive tackle (OT) and subcategorized as a left tackle or right tackle, is an American football position that flanks the two guards on the offensive line. Like other offensive linemen, their objective is to block during each offensive play, physically preventing defenders from tackling or disrupting the offensive ball carrier with the intention of advancing the football downfield. A tackle is considered the most important position on the offensive line, primarily in charge of perimeter protection against defensive ends and edge rushers.

Left tackles have historically been more desired, but the distinction between right and left have become less relevant over time.[1][2] In the NFL, offensive tackles often measure over 6 ft 4 in (193 cm) and 300 lb (140 kg). According to Sports Illustrated football journalist Paul Zimmerman, offensive tackles consistently achieve the highest scores relative to the other positional groups.[3] The Wonderlic is taken before the draft to assess each player's aptitude for learning and problem solving.

  1. ^ Tucker, Ross. "There is no longer a distinction between left tackles and..." The New York Times. Retrieved May 19, 2020.
  2. ^ Thomas, Jeanna (June 28, 2016). "Right tackles matter but still fall behind LTs". SBNation.com. Retrieved May 19, 2020.
  3. ^ Zimmerman, Paul (1984). The New Thinking Man's Guide to Pro Football. Simon and Schuster. ISBN 9780671453947.
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