Twitter can be a difficult place sometimes, like almost any social media outlet. There can be vitrol and abuse, there can be arguments that never seem to end, and there can be moments where you wonder just why in the world you spend so much time on the bird app.
However, Twitter also can provide some great ideas for content. A prime example is this tweet from Matt Miller, who covers the NFL draft incredibly well for Bleacher Report:
Which best at their position NFL player is farthest separated from the next best player?
I think it’s Aaron Donald.
— Matt Miller (@nfldraftscout) July 12, 2020
This tweet also makes my life easier.
We can dispense with the suspense, as Mr. Donald is certainly the player atop this list. Even the best debaters in the would might have difficulty making a case for anyone else atop the interior defensive line rankings in the league today. But there are some fascinating names to consider for the remaining ten spots, and as always there are difficult choices ahead.
Best Interior Defensive Line Unit
When you place a pair of players on a list like this, you are in good shape. The Philadelphia Eagles sport a very solid group up front, starting with Fletcher Cox. but they gave him quite the running mate when the organization added Javon Hargrave in free agency. When you have those two on the inside, and players such as Derek Barnett and Brandon Graham on the outside, you are truly cooking with gas.
But there are some other talented duos in the league. The Buffalo Bills have a nice 1-2 punch of Ed Loiver and Star Lotulelei, while the Cincinnati Bengals also have a great combo with Geno Atkins and the recently acquired D.J. Reader. Finally, do not forget about the Dallas Cowboys. They added Gerald McCoy and Dontari Poe this offseason, and have solid depth behind them in Trysten Hill and third-round pick Neville Gallimore.
Honorable Mentions
As with every position group, there are players who just missed the cut who merit both consideration and accolades, and interior defensive line is no exception to that rule. Tampa Bay Buccaneer Vita Vea is – perhaps quietly – living up to his pre-draft expectations, and last year he notched career highs in pressures, tackles and quarterback hurries. Tennessee Titans’ defensive lineman DaQuan Jones is another very solid player, and interestingly enough he led all interior defensive linemen with 14 pass coverage snaps, according to charting data from Pro Football Focus. Veteran Steve McLendon with the New York Jets had a very solid season, posting a career-high of 18 pressures. Finally, both Dalvin Tomlinson and Dexter Lawrence had good years with the New York Giants.
Now, the Top 11.