The Anchors: Top 10 Offensive Linemen in the UFL

While quarterbacks and skill players often grab the headlines, every successful offense is built on the shoulders of the men in the trenches. In the United Football League, the offensive line remains the foundation of championship football. Protecting quarterbacks, opening running lanes, and controlling the tempo of games requires size, discipline, and technical mastery.

The UFL has quickly become a proving ground for offensive linemen looking to either return to the NFL or establish themselves as elite professionals. Several of the league’s best blockers have already earned opportunities at the next level, while others continue to dominate week after week against top competition.

As the 2026 season approaches, these ten linemen stand out as the premier protectors in the league. From veteran tackles with NFL experience to rising stars from expansion franchises, these players are the anchors that keep their offenses moving.

1. Jaryd Jones-Smith (OT) | St. Louis Battlehawks

Status: Active – Returns as the premier tackle in the league.

Jaryd Jones-Smith has established himself as one of the most dependable offensive tackles in spring football. After spending time with the Atlanta Falcons during the 2025 season, Jones-Smith returned to the St. Louis Battlehawks where he continues to anchor one of the league’s most talented offensive lines. His combination of size, athleticism, and NFL experience makes him a nightmare matchup for edge rushers.

In St. Louis, Jones-Smith plays a crucial role protecting quarterback Michael Pratt and maintaining the stability of a high-powered Battlehawks offense. His footwork in pass protection and ability to seal the edge in the run game make him one of the most complete tackles in the UFL. Coaches consistently praise his leadership and veteran presence, particularly in big-game situations where offensive line communication becomes critical.

Jones-Smith’s journey through the NFL and spring leagues has helped him develop into a polished professional. His ability to recognize defensive fronts, adjust to blitz packages, and dominate in one-on-one situations continues to make him the gold standard for offensive tackles in the league.

2. Bobby Evans (OT) | Dallas Renegades

Status: Active – Renegades franchise relocation from Arlington to Dallas.

Former Oklahoma standout Bobby Evans continues to be a cornerstone for the Renegades’ offensive line. After bringing significant NFL experience into the UFL, Evans has become one of the most reliable pass protectors in the league. His experience from the Los Angeles Rams and other NFL stops gives him a level of technical refinement that many defenders struggle to counter.

With the Renegades relocating to Toyota Stadium in Frisco, Evans remains a central figure in the offense under new head coach Rick Neuheisel. His primary responsibility is protecting veteran quarterback Luis Perez, one of the most accomplished passers in spring football history. Evans’ ability to neutralize speed rushers on the edge allows Perez the time needed to operate the offense efficiently.

What separates Evans from many tackles in the league is his versatility. He has the strength to dominate in the run game while maintaining the lateral agility necessary for modern pass-blocking schemes. His consistency and veteran leadership make him one of the most valuable linemen in the UFL.

3. Mike Panasiuk (C) | St. Louis Battlehawks

Status: Active – Three-time All-League selection (2023–2025).

Mike Panasiuk continues to dominate the interior of the UFL as arguably the best center in the league. A former Michigan State standout, Panasiuk transitioned from defensive tackle in college to offensive center in professional football—a move that has paid enormous dividends for the Battlehawks.

Now a three-time All-League selection, Panasiuk has become the heartbeat of St. Louis’ offensive line. His ability to read defensive fronts and make pre-snap adjustments gives the Battlehawks a huge advantage when facing complex defensive schemes. Few players in the league possess his football IQ or command of the line of scrimmage.

Panasiuk’s physicality in the run game also sets him apart. He consistently creates interior movement that allows the Battlehawks’ rushing attack to thrive. Combined with elite pass protection skills and leadership, Panasiuk has earned a reputation as one of the most complete centers in spring football.

4. Aaron Monteiro (OG) | Columbus Aviators

Status: New Entry – Top draft selection.

Expansion teams often struggle to build strong offensive lines, but the Columbus Aviators made sure to address that issue immediately by selecting Aaron Monteiro in the 2026 draft. The former Boston College standout entered the league as one of the most NFL-ready guards available.

With former UFL standout Kohl Levao currently on the New York Jets’ roster, Monteiro has stepped into the spotlight as the league’s top-rated guard. His physical run blocking and ability to anchor against interior pass rushers have quickly made him the centerpiece of Columbus’ offensive line.

Monteiro brings a rugged playing style that fits perfectly with the Aviators’ plan to establish a physical offense. His leadership and toughness have already earned the respect of teammates and coaches alike as the franchise begins its inaugural season.

5. Zack Johnson (OG) | Birmingham Stallions

Status: Active – Two-time champion (2024–2025).

Zack Johnson continues to be a steady veteran presence for the Birmingham Stallions. With multiple championships already under his belt, Johnson has proven time and time again that he thrives in big moments. His experience and leadership help stabilize one of the most consistent franchises in the UFL.

Johnson’s ability to control defenders at the point of attack makes him a key figure in the Stallions’ running game. His powerful lower body allows him to drive defenders off the ball, while his pass-blocking technique keeps interior pressure away from the quarterback.

Now playing under new head coach A.J. McCarron, Johnson remains the cornerstone of Birmingham’s offensive line. His experience and championship pedigree make him one of the most respected veterans in the league.

6. Matthew Jones (OG) | Columbus Aviators

Status: New Entry – Draft addition.

The Columbus Aviators made another major investment in their offensive line by adding former Ohio State standout Matthew Jones. Returning to Columbus, Jones immediately becomes a fan favorite and a key piece of Ted Ginn Jr.’s inaugural roster.

Jones brings elite collegiate pedigree and impressive physical tools to the interior line. Known for his strength and aggressive playing style, he excels in both pass protection and run blocking. His ability to pull and lead blocks in space adds a dynamic element to the Aviators’ offensive scheme.

With Jones and Monteiro forming a powerful interior duo, Columbus is building one of the most promising offensive lines in the league.

7. Juwann Bushell-Beatty (OT) | Columbus Aviators

Status: Active – Team change.

Former St. Louis Battlehawks tackle Juwann Bushell-Beatty became a priority acquisition for the Columbus Aviators during roster construction. His experience and versatility make him an invaluable asset for a brand-new franchise.

Bushell-Beatty has long been recognized as a dependable tackle capable of protecting quarterbacks and creating running lanes on the edge. His size and reach make it difficult for defenders to disengage once he locks onto a block.

For Columbus, his presence brings much-needed stability. As the Aviators attempt to establish a strong ground attack in their inaugural season, Bushell-Beatty’s experience could prove to be the difference between growing pains and immediate competitiveness.

8. Alec Lindstrom (C) | Louisville Kings

Status: New Entry – Expansion franchise.

With veteran center Jake Lacina retiring, the Louisville Kings turned to Alec Lindstrom as the new leader of their offensive line. The former Boston College standout brings high-level football intelligence and strong technical fundamentals to the position.

Lindstrom’s ability to read defenses and control line calls will be essential as Louisville builds its offensive identity. His experience against high-level collegiate competition prepared him well for the demands of professional football.

Tasked with helping quarterback Jason Bean adjust to the new offense, Lindstrom serves as both protector and field general in the trenches.

9. Zuri Henry (OT) | Orlando Storm

Status: New Entry.

With former tackle Calvin Ashley moving to arena football, the Orlando Storm needed a new cornerstone for their offensive line. Zuri Henry quickly emerged as that player.

Henry’s combination of athleticism and strength makes him one of the most intriguing young tackles in the league. His ability to mirror edge rushers and maintain leverage in pass protection has already caught the attention of coaches around the UFL.

Head coach Anthony Becht made Henry a centerpiece of Orlando’s draft strategy, recognizing his potential to develop into one of the league’s top tackles.

10. Greg Eiland (OT) | Dallas Renegades

Status: Active.

Standing an imposing 6-foot-8, Greg Eiland remains one of the most physically dominant offensive linemen in the UFL. His massive frame and long reach allow him to neutralize defenders before they can even reach the quarterback.

Eiland’s presence provides crucial stability for the Renegades after a turbulent offseason that saw several offensive linemen depart. His experience and leadership help maintain continuity for an offense built around veteran quarterback Luis Perez.

While Eiland’s size is the first thing opponents notice, his technique and discipline are what truly make him effective. As one of the most intimidating linemen in the league, he remains a cornerstone for the Renegades’ offensive line.

Final Thoughts

The UFL continues to showcase high-level offensive line talent, proving that championship football begins in the trenches. These ten players represent the league’s best protectors, run blockers, and leaders. As the 2026 season unfolds, expect these anchors to play a pivotal role in determining which teams rise to the top of the standings.