A large offensive lineman positioned outside the guards whose primary responsibility is protecting the quarterback's blind side and creating running lanes. Offensive tackles are typically the biggest and most athletic linemen.
From 'offensive' indicating their team role and 'tackle' describing their position on the line. The term became standard as line positions became specialized in the early 20th century, with tackles handling the critical edge protection duties.
Left tackles are often the highest-paid linemen because they protect right-handed quarterbacks' blind sides, where devastating hits can end careers. The position requires incredible footwork and hand technique, making players like Anthony Muñoz and Walter Jones artists in 300-pound bodies.
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