The Rise of the Sixth Offensive Lineman: NFL's 'Mr. Eligible' Revolution

In the ever-evolving chess match of NFL strategy, a subtle but significant trend has emerged this season: the increasing deployment of a sixth offensive lineman. These versatile big men, often announced as "Mr. Eligible" over stadium loudspeakers, are becoming key contributors in specialized offensive packages designed to create mismatches, bolster protection, and power the running game. This strategic shift represents a growing fraternity of players who must master multiple positions and adapt to unique roles that extend far beyond traditional line play.

The Strategic Advantage of Jumbo Packages

The utilization of a sixth offensive lineman, often referred to as a "jumbo" or "heavy" package, provides teams with several tactical benefits. Primarily, it offers superior run blocking by adding an extra 300-plus pound mauler to the point of attack. This creates wider running lanes and allows offenses to physically overwhelm defensive fronts in short-yardage and goal-line situations. Furthermore, these packages can enhance pass protection, giving quarterbacks more time against aggressive pass rushes. The mere presence of an extra lineman also forces defensive coordinators to adjust their personnel and play calls, creating potential mismatches elsewhere on the field.

Profiles of Prominent Sixth Linemen

Across the league, several players have embraced and excelled in this specialized role, each bringing unique skills to their team's offensive arsenal.

Spencer Anderson, Pittsburgh Steelers

The Pittsburgh Steelers have found a secret weapon in Spencer Anderson, their 2023 seventh-round draft pick. Anderson's background as a former AAU basketball player contributes to his surprising agility in space, making him particularly effective in the Steelers' jumbo package. Through 16 weeks, the Steelers lead the NFL with 716 yards gained when using an extra lineman. Offensive coordinator Arthur Smith has creatively deployed Anderson not just as a blocker, but occasionally as a pass-catcher, resulting in Anderson's first NFL reception this season against the Green Bay Packers. His versatility is so valued that even when starting at guard due to injury, he still assumes his sixth-man role in jumbo formations, with another lineman replacing him at guard.

Dan Skipper, Detroit Lions

Detroit's Dan Skipper represents the veteran presence in this fraternity. The eight-year veteran understands the complexities of the role better than most, noting that preparing as a tight end requires "a tremendous amount more work" than his standard tackle duties. Skipper made headlines last season by catching a 9-yard touchdown pass from Jared Goff against the Buffalo Bills, a moment of redemption after his involvement in a controversial reporting error the previous year. The Lions have been highly effective with their jumbo package, scoring nine touchdowns with six linemen through 16 weeks, trailing only Arizona in this category.

Blake Fisher, Houston Texans

No team utilizes the sixth lineman more frequently than the Houston Texans, who have deployed the package on a league-high 169 plays this season. Rookie Blake Fisher, the team's 2024 second-round pick, has become a crucial component of this strategy, often reporting eligible multiple times per game. The Texans turned to the jumbo package extensively after losing a fullback and two tight ends to injuries, with offensive coordinator Nick Caley using Fisher as a makeshift tight end. This approach has yielded significant results, including 711 yards (second only to Pittsburgh) and six touchdowns from these heavy formations.

The Expanding Role and Recognition

The growing importance of sixth linemen hasn't gone unnoticed by the league. In May, the NFL announced it would debut a Protector of the Year Award after the 2025 season to honor the best offensive lineman, bringing more recognition to a traditionally overlooked position group. While there's no specific "sixth man" award like in the NBA, players like Anderson, Skipper, and others have developed a mutual respect and understanding of the unique challenges their role presents.

Kelvin Beachum of the Arizona Cardinals, a 14-year veteran now starting at right tackle, still embraces his sixth-man duties when called upon. The Cardinals have scored 11 touchdowns with six linemen, tied for most in the NFL with Cleveland. Beachum represents the adaptability required, though he jokingly insists he doesn't want the ball thrown his way. Similarly, Philadelphia's Matt Pryor has contributed to the Eagles leading the league with 7.4 yards per rush from jumbo formations, while Kansas City's Wanya Morris made headlines last season by catching a touchdown pass from Patrick Mahomes.

Conclusion: A Lasting Strategic Evolution

The increasing use of sixth offensive linemen represents more than just a temporary trend; it signifies a strategic evolution in how NFL offenses create advantages. As injuries inevitably thin tight end and fullback rosters, and as defensive schemes become more sophisticated, the value of versatile linemen who can execute multiple roles will only increase. These players must master not only traditional line techniques but also understand route concepts, defensive adjustments, and the intricacies of skill positions. The "fraternity" of sixth linemen, as Dan Skipper describes it, continues to grow as coaches recognize the tactical flexibility these players provide. In a league where every advantage matters, the sixth offensive lineman has emerged as a valuable weapon in the modern offensive arsenal.