With the help of NFL executives, coaches, and scouts, ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler ranked the top 10 offensive tackles ahead of the 2024 season. Neither Bernhard Raimann nor Braden Smith made the cut, but Raimann was in the “receiving votes” category.
Below is a look at what went into this ranking process:
“Voters give us their best 10 players at a position, then we compile the results and rank candidates based on number of top-10 votes, composite average and dozens of interviews, with research and film-study help from ESPN NFL analyst Matt Bowen. In total, nearly 80 voters submitted a ballot on at least one position, and in many cases all positions. Additional voting and follow-up calls with those surveyed help us break any ties.”
At the top of Fowler’s list was Trent Williams, followed by Penei Sewell, Laremy Tunsil, Tristan Wirfs, and Lane Johnson.
After a rock-solid rookie season in 2022, Raimann made that crucial developmental jump that many successful players make during his sophomore NFL season.
According to PFF, Raimann would surrender four sacks and 34 pressures. Out of 50 eligible tackles, he would rank 20th in pass-blocking efficiency and 12th in run-blocking grade.
There were a few factors that Raimann contributes to his leap in 2023, including the experience he’s gained since entering the NFL, the continuity he’s had on the left side of the offensive line lining up next to Quenton Nelson, and his work ethic.
“One of the hardest working guys I’ve been around,” said Ryan Kelly during minicamp. “I think truly that left tackle position I think, above and beyond everybody else, can be a little detailed, micro-oriented.
“I think for him, what he’s really trusting is his athletic ability, which is a big thing for him. He hasn’t played football since he was a little kid, so it’s been a short time compared to most.”
Not included in ESPN’s rankings was Colts’ left tackle Braden Smith. Injuries would limit Smith to only 10 games last year, but when on the field, he remained very effective.
Smith wouldn’t allow any sacks and he ranked sixth in pass-blocking efficiency, all while never quite being at 100 percent. With Smith on the field, the Colts averaged 4.6 yards per rush compared to just 3.9 yards per carry when he was out.
Smith would undergo “successful” knee surgery this offseason. He didn’t participate during OTAs or minicamp, and a timeline for his return hasn’t been announced, but Smith says he’s in a “pretty good spot.”
“Coming out of the offseason, had successful surgery,” said Smith when meeting with reporters earlier this offseason. “Had some stuff, you know, did some rehab this offseason, feel like I’m in a pretty good spot. Strength is coming back. Just making sure I can get through the season healthy and make sure we’re being smart with things.”