NFL quarterbacks and sometimes running backs are known for rewarding their offensive linemen with extravagant gifts during the holiday season, an acknowledgement of the underappreciated and physically demanding work they perform on the field. This year saw a collection of gifts varying from valuable and stylish to practical and meaningful. Here are the top ten from this season, along with a look at how their teams performed in Week 17.
First on the list is the Cincinnati Bengals and their quarterback, Joe Burrow. Acting on his linemen’s preference for weaponry, Burrow bought them authentic Japanese Katana swords, each with a unique backstory relating to a specific town or battle. This unique gift was highly appreciated by the recipients, with some stating it was their favorite gift received thus far. Despite this exceptional gift, Burrow was sacked seven times in the Bengals’ overtime win over the Denver Broncos. Secondly, Josh Jacobs of the Green Bay Packers commissioned custom diamond pendants for his 12 offensive linemen, an impressive gesture that seemingly didn’t help their game, as they lost to the Minnesota Vikings in Week 17.
The Philadelphia Eagles players, Saquon Barkley and Jalen Hurts jointly gifted their linemen with personalized golf carts, showcasing a thoughtful and personalized aspect. However, the logos of Hurts and Barkley, imprinted on the carts, gave a constant reminder of the benefactors. The Eagles won against the Dallas Cowboys 41-17. Brock Purdy of the San Francisco 49ers capitalized on corporate sponsorship by gifting his linemen Toyota Sequoias or Tundras thanks to Toyota. Although these were the most expensive gifts on the list, the 49ers lost to the Detroit Lions.
Aaron Rodgers from the New York Jets treated his linemen to a stylish holiday season by bringing a tailor to measure them for custom Tom Ford suits. Accompanying the suit were Tom Ford sunglasses, Tom Ford cologne, and a Louis Vuitton passport holder. Despite these luxurious gifts, the Jets lost miserably to the Buffalo Bills. The Detroit Lions’ Jared Goff opted for a more modest approach by giving his linemen a Yeti package filled with wagyu beef. The Lions won against the San Francisco 49ers.
Honorable mentions include gifts from the Pittsburgh Steelers’ Russell Wilson, who gave out $10,000 Airbnb gift cards worldwide. Also, MVP candidate Josh Allen from the Buffalo Bills received a custom diamond necklace from his linemen, signifying their confidence in his performance. Lastly, Daniel Jones of the Minnesota Vikings, but a former New York Giants player, didn’t forget his old teammates and sent them a limited edition bottle of Clase Azul tequila. In conclusion, it appears that sometimes the big, underappreciated guys on the field appreciate simple presents just as much as the lavish ones.
