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2026 NFL Interior Rankings Spotlight Chiefs, Cowboys, Bears

ESPN NFL •
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ESPN surveyed more than 70 league executives, coaches and scouts to compile the 2026 interior offensive lineman rankings ahead of training camps. Voters submitted top‑10 lists for each position, and the final order reflected vote counts, composite averages and in‑depth film studies.

The top two spots go to Tyler Smith of the Dallas Cowboys and Quentin Nelson of the Indianapolis Colts. Smith, a 2022 first‑round pick, moved from tackle to guard and earned three straight Pro Bowls, while Nelson, a 30‑year‑old veteran, posted a 98.5% pass‑block win rate and kept the Colts near the league’s offensive core.

Veteran guard Joe Thuney of the Chicago Bears tops the run‑block rankings, and Tyler Linderbaum of the Las Vegas Raiders signed a record‑shattering $81 million three‑year deal. Centers Creed Humphrey and Quinn Meinerz also rank high, reflecting the Chiefs and Broncos’ strong interior units.

These results suggest the Chiefs will stay the benchmark, the Cowboys could close the gap, and the Raiders’ new lineman will help the Raiders’ offense mature. Veteran presence from Thuney will anchor the Bears, positioning them for a competitive interior line in 2026.