COLUMBUS, Ohio (WSYX) — Former Ohio State offensive lineman Paris Johnson Jr., now in his third season with the Arizona Cardinals, has established the inaugural Ohio High School Offensive Lineman of the Year Award.
The Cincinnati native aims to honor the often-overlooked players in the trenches.
“Offensive linemen by nature are servers and they want to serve other people,” said Monica Daniels, executive director of the Paris Johnson Jr. Foundation.
The award will recognize a senior offensive lineman for their performance on the field, as well as their contributions in the classroom and community.
“Paris is an amazing athlete, but Paris is an exceptional human being,” Daniels said. “Giving back to the community and being a person of character is extremely important.”
The selection committee includes former Bengals offensive tackle Willie Anderson, Ohio State Hall of Fame lineman LaCharles Bentley and other Ohio football figures.
Ohio State left guard Luke Montgomery, who played at Findlay High School, expressed his support for the initiative.
“There’s not really an award for our play. For Paris to take initiative on that, it’s special for the offensive line community,” Montgomery said.
The watchlist for the award includes four linemen from central Ohio.
The winner will be announced at the Division I state championship game in December and will enjoy a VIP experience with Johnson when the Bengals host the Cardinals on Dec. 28.
Daniels noted they have the support of the OHSAA and hope to expand the award in the future.