There are several factors that go into performance of an offensive line. (Coaching, leadership, work ethic, continuity, health and skill)
Coaching: we were voted the worst coached team in the NFL last year. With good coaching, you motivate a solid off season program. Does anyone think they worked hard on their strength and conditioning. Thayer called them out on that. Play calling also stands out in this category.
Leadership: the only leader we had on the OL was a washed up TE. Now, we have Thuney. From what people say, he will absolutely be a vocal and physical leader.
Work ethic: we now have a great OL coach and Thuney. From Johnson on down, there will be an installation of work ethic. There's no question why we didn't offer Jenkins a penny.
Continuity: with Jenkins, Nate Davis and Jones missing portions of TC, it's hard to gel. I think they said we used 58 OL combinations the last two years. Availability together is crucial.
Skill: the only starters we had above fifth round picks were Jenkins and Wright. That doesn't cut it. Failing to invest in the trenches has been a franchise killer for decades. Of course people make it from all over the draft, but the success rates from the first two rounds are significantly better than any other position group. Great teams draft trenches yearly.
Prediction: we know we upgraded three positions and Jones isn't that bad. Our OL will drastically improve. My guess is we'll cut sacks in half and increase YPC by 1.5 yards.
Wish list: draft two more to push backups out the door. Give Kiran a boot camp to see what he can provide as a prospect. 2026 draft two more until we know we're stacked.