It is often said that the National Football League (NFL) is a “quarterback-centered” league. Many football teams see the quarterback as the key playmaker and decision-maker on the field. The quarterback is responsible for leading the team, making crucial passes, reading the defense, and often has a substantial influence on the team’s overall success. One could argue that the quarterback is the most important position on the team.

This might be true. But, all ego aside, what would an NFL quarterback say if asked about the most important position? Perhaps they would answer, “left tackle.”  

Standing under center at the line of scrimmage, the left tackle covers the left edge. He is typically tasked with protecting the quarterback’s blind side, which is the side opposite the quarterback’s throwing arm. Since many quarterbacks are right-handed, their left side is vulnerable to blindside hits from defensive players. Therefore, a skilled left tackle is essential in preventing opposing defenders from reaching the quarterback and disrupting plays.  

How much do quarterbacks appreciate their O-line? A whole lot! Often, when a quarterback has a post-game interview, he will give credit to his offensive line for protecting him and helping to create plays. Trevor Lawrence, quarterback for the Jacksonville Jaguars, is a recent example (photo above). On December 4, 2023, he sustained a high ankle injury in the game versus the Bengals. I was watching the game when he went down, grimacing in pain. However, Lawrence refused to be carted off the field. Instead, he limped off with the aid of players/trainers. Video footage showed him limping through the tunnel toward the locker room.  

Social media blew up with questions like, “Why did he limp off the field?” “Don’t the Jags have any carts?” Well, this gave Lawrence the opportunity to show just how much he appreciates his offensive linemen and the protection they give him.  A few days later, Lawrence posted a video that showed him gifting each of the Jacksonville Jaguars linemen a brand new E-Z-Go golf cart.  He said, “I had to treat my boys right . . . They sacrifice a lot for us and for myself, so I had to do something special for them for Christmas.” 

According to Jaguarswire.usatoday.com, Lawrence’s gift wasn’t cheap. They report, “The carts, depending on the model, cost about $10,000 to $20,000 and there are 14 linemen on the roster (nine on the active roster, two on injured reserve, three on the practice squad). That’s a bill well over six figures, although it seems E-Z-Go picked up some or all of the tab.”  

What parallel can we draw from this story?  Here at HRBC, we are also a team. We can accomplish far more together than we ever could alone. We are better as a unit! We talked about this on Sunday the 28th as we focused on “fellowship” one of our strategic vision “pillars.” Fellowship is translated from the Greek word, koinonia, which means “partnership, sharing, collaboration, things held in common.”  

It’s great to know that we all have a unique role to play as the body of Christ. In football, the left (or right) tackle protects the quarterback’s blind side. Although they practice and work very hard, these linemen don’t get much credit, nor do they seek it. This is much like the members and teams that we have here at HRBC. As pastor, some of what I am called to do is likened to a quarterback. I am grateful for leaders like our deacons and others who guard the edge and watch the blindside of this “fellowship.” Together, we are empowered by the Spirit of God to fulfill our mission: to develop fully devoted followers of Jesus Christ.   

In Christ’s care and service,