Grey Zabel Anchors Seahawks’ Line with Eyes on Lombardi, Not Awards
As the Seattle Seahawks prepare to square off against the New England Patriots in Sunday’s Super Bowl, one thing is clear: this team didn’t get here by accident. Seattle has built a complete, balanced roster-veteran leadership steering the ship, and young talent stepping in like they’ve been here before. And no rookie has embodied that more than first-round pick Grey Zabel.
Drafted 18th overall in 2025, Zabel stepped into the starting left guard spot and never looked back. He’s started every game for Seattle this season, quickly establishing himself as one of the most reliable interior linemen in the league. Physical, poised, and already playing with a veteran’s savvy, Zabel has been a key part of an offensive line that’s helped power the Seahawks to the biggest stage in football.
This week, amid the buzz of Super Bowl media night, Zabel took a moment to reflect-not on the spotlight, but on a new accolade that’s shining a little brighter on guys like him. The NFL’s newly introduced Protector of the Year award is finally giving offensive linemen their own end-of-season recognition, and Zabel couldn’t be more thrilled about it.
“It’s super cool,” he said with a grin. “It gives us something to chase, too.”
And he’s right-linemen are the unsung heroes of the game, doing the dirty work in the trenches with little fanfare. An award like this is long overdue.
But Zabel was quick to add that while individual honors are nice, they’re not what drives him. His focus?
The Lombardi Trophy. “That’s the one that matters,” he said.
And you believe him. Because that’s been the Seahawks’ identity all year long-team-first, ego-free football.
Whether it’s a goal-line stand or a pancake block in the run game, this squad just wants to win. Period.
Seattle’s offensive line has been a foundation for that success, and Zabel’s emergence has been a big reason why. His ability to handle complex protections, pick up blitzes, and move defenders off the ball has made life easier for the Seahawks’ offense all season. He’s not just holding his own-he’s thriving.
The league took notice of the trenches this season with the inaugural Protector of the Year award. Finalists include some of the game’s best: Garett Bolles (Broncos), Aaron Brewer (Dolphins), Creed Humphrey (Chiefs), Quinn Meinerz (Broncos), and Penei Sewell (Lions).
Zabel’s name isn’t on that list-yet-but that doesn’t seem to bother him. He knows his time will come.
For now, the rookie is exactly where he wants to be: suiting up for a Super Bowl with a chance to help bring a championship back to Seattle. And if he keeps playing the way he has all season, there’s a good chance he’ll be in the Protector of the Year conversation sooner rather than later.
But first, there’s a trophy to chase. The one that matters most.