As the NFL gears up for another exciting season, all eyes are on the rising stars poised to disrupt the league with their incredible pass-rushing abilities. A dominant pass rush can turn the tide of a game, and the young players stepping into the spotlight are more than ready to make their mark. Let’s dive into the next generation of NFL pass rushers you need to watch.
Myles Garrett: The Unstoppable Force
Myles Garrett, a defensive end for the Cleveland Browns, stands at the pinnacle of the pass rusher rankings. His blend of size, speed, and strength makes him a nightmare for any offensive line. Garrett’s productivity and reliability set him apart. He’s received high praise from teammates and analysts alike. As Joel Bitonio, a fellow Browns player described, “There’s no edge defender that you can set and forget quite like Garrett.”
- 2023 Rank: 3rd (+2)
- 2023 Stats: 16 sacks, 69 total points (ranking methodology)
Garrett’s skill set includes strong run defense and the ability to cover on rare occasions, which makes him exceedingly valuable. Despite falling short of the coveted 20-sack season, his consistent performance and ability to disrupt plays make him a player to watch.
T.J. Watt: The Versatile Disruptor
T.J. Watt, playing for the Pittsburgh Steelers, is another name that commands respect. Known for his impressive sack record and versatility, Watt disrupts the game not just by taking down quarterbacks but also by deflecting passes and making crucial tackles. As Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow noted, “You have to be very alert for him in the pass game, which is very unique.”
- 2023 Rank: 4th (+2)
- 2023 Stats: 19 sacks, 8 pass breakups
Watt’s ability to jump and intercept passes makes him a dual threat. His consistent performances have earned him high rankings and a reputation as one of the most dangerous pass rushers in the league.
Maxx Crosby: The Raiders’ Defensive Anchor
Maxx Crosby has been a standout for the Las Vegas Raiders, becoming the team’s defensive leader. His productivity since entering the league in 2019 has been nothing short of impressive. Crosby’s ability to make plays during critical moments has earned him a top spot among his peers.
- 2023 Rank: 5th (+2)
- 2023 Stats: 12 sacks, 120 pressures
Crosby is particularly effective in high-pressure situations, placing him second only to Myles Garrett in fourth-quarter and overtime pressures. His consistent impact on the game makes him one of the rising stars to keep an eye on.
Micah Parsons: The Cowboys’ Hybrid Defender
Micah Parsons of the Dallas Cowboys is one of the most versatile defenders in the NFL. His ability to rush the passer, defend the run, and even drop into coverage makes him a unique asset for the Cowboys. According to Pro Football Focus, Parsons led all edge rushers in pressure rate last season.
- 2023 Rank: 5th (+2)
- 2023 Stats: 13 sacks, over 100 total quarterback pressures
Parsons’ hybrid nature allows the Cowboys to use him in multiple roles, making it difficult for opposing teams to plan against him. His versatility and effectiveness have quickly placed him among the elite pass rushers in the league.
Josh Hines-Allen: Jacksonville’s Record-Setter
Josh Hines-Allen had a breakout season with the Jacksonville Jaguars, setting a franchise record for sacks in a single season. His performance earned him a lucrative contract, and he’s set to continue his excellence in the upcoming season.
- 2023 Rank: Unranked
- 2023 Stats: 17.5 sacks, 17 tackles for loss
Playing alongside another top young edge rusher, Travon Walker, Hines-Allen is poised to make significant contributions. His ability to disrupt both the run and pass makes him one of the most complete edge rushers in football.
Conclusion
The next generation of NFL pass rushers is brimming with talent and potential. Players like Myles Garrett, T.J. Watt, Maxx Crosby, Micah Parsons, and Josh Hines-Allen are redefining what it means to be elite defensive players. Their impact extends beyond their personal stats, influencing the overall performance of their teams. As the 2024 season unfolds, these rising stars will undoubtedly be the players to watch, changing the football lines and setting new standards for defensive excellence in the NFL.