Dec 2, 2012; Green Bay, WI, USA; Minnesota Vikings offensive tackle Phil Loadholt (71) during the game against the Green Bay Packers at Lambeau Field. The Packers defeated the Vikings 23-14. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Hanisch-USA TODAY Sports
Forget about that annual NFL Network 100 greatest players list, the real best players list is the one put out every year by PFF based on their overall grades for the season.
PFF uses science to put together their list. It’s not a popularity contest. And it’s not based on what some guy did ten years ago.
Reputation doesn’t matter on the PFF list. It’s all about the past season. Who was the best. Who graded out the highest.
PFF has begun running down their list and the Vikings are already popping up.
Right tackle Phil Loadholt is the first Viking to crack the list, coming in at #98. PFF says:
"The only right tackle to make the list, Loadholt would finish the year our second-ranked overall right tackle (behind Zach Strief, but with a much better run block grade). He’s become the prototype right tackle, more than good enough with his pass protection and able to generate substantial movement in the run game. Throw in getting penalized just three times and he’s delivered on his contract so far."
Phil Loadholt is The Prototype.
The shocking number for those who’ve watched Loadholt since he was drafted by the Vikings is the 3 penalties. That’s proof of how hard Loadholt has worked on his game. His discipline used to be an issue but it’s mostly not anymore.
The Vikings made a financial commitment to Loadholt, and he’s committed himself to them by getting better. It’s working out so far.
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