“Cayden Green Garners Preseason All-America First-Team Honors: Mizzou’s Offensive Line Star Recognized by Phil Steele After Dominant 2024 Campaign”
Cayden Green’s football journey continues to gain momentum as the Missouri Tigers junior offensive lineman earns a coveted spot on the Phil Steele 2025 Preseason All-America First Team. For a player who made the leap to SEC competition just a year ago, Green’s rise has been nothing short of remarkable. A native of Lee’s Summit, Missouri, Green has already begun etching his name into Tigers history, and this latest accolade only underscores how far he has come—and how high his ceiling remains. In an era where the trenches often dictate the fate of entire programs, Green has emerged as one of the premier offensive linemen not only in the SEC but across the country.
His 2024 campaign was a display of relentless physicality, technical precision, and quiet leadership. Green didn’t just play the part—he dominated it. Starting every game and logging a staggering 1,504 snaps, he anchored an offensive line that consistently gave Missouri a fighting chance in a hyper-competitive conference. Under his watch, the Tigers’ offensive line became a formidable unit, finishing fourth in the SEC in tackles for loss allowed per game (4.62) and seventh in sacks allowed per game (2.0). In a league known for relentless pass rushers and monstrous defensive fronts, those numbers speak volumes.
Beyond just the stats, what sets Green apart is his consistency and intelligence. Offensive line play is rarely about highlight-reel moments—it’s about avoiding disaster, creating space, and buying precious seconds. Green’s awareness, footwork, and strength made him a brick wall against edge rushers and a bulldozer in the run game. His versatility and durability were crucial assets for a Missouri offense that piled up 2,138 rushing yards, 2,926 passing yards, and scored 26 rushing touchdowns in the 2024 season. Those numbers don’t happen without exceptional line play, and Green was at the heart of it.
Recognition from Phil Steele is no small feat. Steele’s annual preseason All-America teams are among the most respected in the sport, largely because of their meticulous approach to evaluation. Inclusion on the first team places Green in the same tier as the most elite offensive linemen in the country—many of whom are projected to be first-round NFL Draft picks. This honor not only reflects his past performance but also signals massive expectations going forward.
What makes Green’s ascent even more compelling is his journey. As a highly regarded high school prospect from the Kansas City metro area, he had his pick of top-tier programs. Yet, he chose to stay in-state and represent Missouri, bringing with him not only talent but a deep-rooted pride in his homegrown identity. That local connection resonates with fans and adds another layer to his legacy. In choosing Mizzou, Green didn’t just commit to a school—he committed to a mission. Now, that mission is starting to bear fruit, both individually and for the program as a whole.
Offensive line coach Marcus Johnson has played a significant role in Green’s development, providing the technical guidance and competitive fire necessary to transform potential into production. Green has flourished under Johnson’s tutelage, evolving into a linchpin of the Tigers’ offense. Whether it’s in pass protection or run blocking, his discipline and execution have helped raise the standard for Missouri’s entire offensive front.
Leadership is another area where Green has quietly but firmly made his mark. While linemen don’t often grab headlines or post-game interviews, those in the locker room know who sets the tone. Green’s work ethic, accountability, and attention to detail have not gone unnoticed by teammates and coaches alike. In practices, film sessions, and weight room workouts, his presence commands respect. That kind of leadership is hard to teach—it’s cultivated through action, repetition, and resolve.
The importance of a strong offensive line can’t be overstated, especially in the SEC. It’s a league built on speed, power, and physical domination. Without a dependable offensive line, even the most talented skill players struggle to shine. Green’s ability to neutralize pressure and create running lanes gave Missouri a balanced attack and a legitimate shot in every contest. His performance has helped set a foundation that could propel the Tigers into contention in 2025.
As the new season approaches, Green will undoubtedly be a central figure in Missouri’s game plans and media coverage. His All-America nod will place a target on his back—defensive coordinators will scheme around him, and draft scouts will dissect every snap. But if the past year is any indication, he’ll be ready. That’s the hallmark of great players: they welcome the pressure, meet it head-on, and rise to the occasion.
For Missouri, Green’s success is emblematic of a broader shift within the program. Head coach Eli Drinkwitz has emphasized development, toughness, and local recruiting. In many ways, Green represents all three pillars. His growth into a national-caliber lineman shows that Mizzou can not only attract top talent but also cultivate it into elite performance. That’s a message that resonates with future recruits, particularly those within Missouri’s borders.
Looking ahead, Green’s trajectory suggests more accolades are on the horizon. He has already entered the conversation as one of the best linemen in college football and is likely to be featured on midseason and postseason watch lists. His name could easily surface as a finalist for the Outland Trophy, awarded to the nation’s best interior lineman. NFL scouts have surely taken notice, and barring injury or unforeseen circumstances, Green could be a high pick in the 2026 NFL Draft.
But before all of that, there’s unfinished business in Columbia. Green returns not just with accolades but with purpose. The Tigers will look to build on the momentum of last season, and their offensive line—anchored by Green—will be the engine behind any potential playoff push. Missouri fans have every reason to be optimistic. With Green paving the way, the offense is in good hands, and the standard of excellence continues to rise.
His presence also elevates those around him. Younger linemen have the benefit of learning from one of the best, both in technique and in preparation. His leadership ensures that the culture within the offensive line room remains strong, disciplined, and cohesive. That ripple effect can change the complexion of an entire team.
As preseason accolades roll in, the challenge becomes turning recognition into results. Expectations are high, and the spotlight will be brighter than ever. But Green’s track record suggests he’s built for the pressure. He’s already proven that he belongs among the nation’s elite, and now he has the chance to solidify that status through another dominant season.
In a sport where linemen rarely receive the credit they deserve, it’s refreshing to see someone like Cayden Green get his due. His story is one of dedication, development, and quiet dominance. The Phil Steele First-Team All-America nod is not the beginning or the end—it’s simply another milestone on what promises to be a stellar football journey. For Missouri, for the SEC, and for college football as a whole, Cayden Green is a name to watch, respect, and remember.
