John Madden in 2006. John Madden taps his bust during his Hall of Fame ceremony before the game as the Oakland Raiders defeated the Arizona Cardinals by a score of 22 to 9 at McAfee Coliseum, Oakland, California, October 22, 2006. (Photo by Robert B. Stanton/NFLPhotoLibrary)
By Arthur Weinstein on

John Madden remains a larger than life figure more than four years after his passing, known to generations of football fans for different achievements, from legendary NFL coach to award-winning broadcaster to the namesake of the popular video game franchise.

Now, a prominent NFL reporter has suggested a new award be named after Madden to honor offensive linemen.

Cam Inman, who covers the San Francisco 49ers for the Bay Area News Group, suggested “The John Madden NFL Offensive Lineman of the Year Award” to honor the top lineman. To be fair, Buffalo Bills four-time Pro Bowl tackle Dion Dawkins first pitched the idea of honoring offensive linemen during a press conference Friday.

“Offensive linemen don’t have awards for being great,” Dawkins said. “There’s not a ‘Protector of the Year Award.’ I’m knocking at so many doors now to get this award going. I’m going to make sure this gets done before I’m done playing. Because there are so many greats.”


Inman posted a video of Dawkins’ comments, along with his idea to attach Madden’s name to the award.

“Suggestion: The John Madden NFL Offensive Lineman of the Year Award,” Inman posted. “Madden spoke up for O-linemen like no other. He was an Eagles O-lineman out of Cal Poly before ACL tear as rookie in camp. Merely became Pro Football Hall of Fame coach with Raiders and award-winning TV analyst.”

The legendary coach and broadcaster also had another award created in his honor this season, the Madden Thanksgiving MVP trophy, given to the top performers in each game on that holiday that has become synonymous with him.

Many fans might recall there was an offensive lineman award years ago named after John Madden. The “Madden Most Valuable Protectors Award,” sponsored by Prilosec OTC, was awarded from 2009 through 2013. But something more permanent would certainly be a fitting tribute to the football icon.

About Arthur Weinstein

Arthur spends his free time traveling around the U.S. to sporting events, state and national parks, and in search of great restaurants off the beaten path.

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