Buffalo's most underrated player might be an offensive lineman that nobody is talking about, and that needs to change
Everyone knows that Josh Allen is having an incredible season. He's in the middle of the most hotly-contested MVP race in recent memory, with both he and the Ravens' Lamar Jackson playing at unbelievably high levels. What doesn't get enough attention, though, is his offensive line. Right tackle Spencer Brown in particular is emerging into an […]
Everyone knows that Josh Allen is having an incredible season. He's in the middle of the most hotly-contested MVP race in recent memory, with both he and the Ravens' Lamar Jackson playing at unbelievably high levels.
What doesn't get enough attention, though, is his offensive line. Right tackle Spencer Brown in particular is emerging into an elite asset on the offensive line, with his athleticism and technique continuing to grow year over year.
The Bills liked what they saw, extending Brown before this season, and it's a good thing they did. If they had waited, his price tag would be much higher this coming offseason.
Entering Wild Card Weekend, the Denver Broncos led the NFL in total sacks this season. Brown wanted to hear none of it. On 34 pass blocking reps, Brown allowed only one pressure, not QB hits, no sacks, and wasn't penalized. He and his left tackle running mate, Dion Dawkins, are probably the most underrated offensive tackle duo in the NFL.
As shown in the video above, Brown is also great out in open space. When they have him pull, he's a strong lead blocker that picks his man and knocks him into the next dimension.
Brown has a particularly crucial role as the right tackle for Josh Allen, who is so talented and so prone to rolling right. Brown needs to be very aware of what Allen is doing, and has showcased a great ability to know when Allen is breaking right out of the pocket. Not drawing holding penalties when Allen leaves the pocket to extend the play is a crucial element to allowing Allen to do what he does best, and Brown is particularly savvy at it.
The offensive line, Brown in particular, have been one of the best units in the NFL this year. Allen was the least-sacked quarterback in the league, which is a team effort between Allen's escapability and the offensive line's blocking. They dominated the best defensive front in the NFL last weekend, and will look to keep it rolling against a tough Ravens squad up next.
Follow along all year for more Buffalo Bills coverage on A to Z Sports. You can find me on Bluesky @jonhelmkamp.bsky.social, and make sure to follow our main page @AtoZSports.bsky.social for all the latest news.
