Leno has Really Evolved Into a Good LT

[richig07]

2015: 523 attempts, 42 pressures (.0803%)

2016: 559 attempts, 36 pressures (.0644%)

2017: 473 attempts, 24 pressures (.0507%)


AND... he's never, ever hurt. He is becoming an extremely valuable player. Some of us applauded the decision the F.O. made to get out ahead of the issue in paying him last off-season. I think he should only get better under Hiestand/Nagy. Turning out to be a real pleasant surprise for us, and real good value in his contract.

Just thought it was worth mentioning. Massie also improved this past year. Surprisingly enough, it was the injuries and inconsistency on the interior that created some struggles. Whitehair is still extremely dependable. Sitton was great, but was injured often the past couple of seasons. Long was never healthy and struggled when he was out there.

 

[Lake Shore Drive]

I recall reading an article in one of the local rags this past winter that Leno was the 5th highest rate LT according to some composite performance stats, to which I have no way of quoting. But I do remember that rating.

 

[richig07]

I recall reading an article in one of the local rags this past winter that Leno was the 5th highest rate LT according to some composite performance stats, to which I have no way of quoting. But I do remember that rating.

Yeah, people have a misconception about LT's. There's really only 2-3 "elite" ones and then it's mostly crap. It's an extremely tough position - where you're only noticed/talked about by 99% of fans when you fail in protection or false start.

Just being solid and healthy like Leno has been. You can certainly argue he belongs around #5 in the league or so. I'd have to see it broken down further, but he's right there at the top of Tier #2.

 

[noonthirtyjoe]

Leno has been a nice player. Better then expected.

 

[Beengay fudgepackers]

Interesting. I still don’t think he’s that good, but richi is right about one thing. There isnt much talent there anyway.

 

[richig07]

Interesting. I still don’t think he’s that good, but richi is right about one thing. There isnt much talent there anyway.

Based off of what, though? His run blocking has always been his strongest asset. His pass blocking was just a touch under elite this year to boot. That on top of fantastic durability - you have a really, really good LT.

And it's not that there isn't "talent". It's just that being a consistently dominant NFL left tackle is borderline impossible. lol. Only a few every generation.