B/R NFL 1000: Ranking the Top 40 4-3 Defensive Ends from 2014
Who is the best player in the NFL? Not based on the last 10 years or one game, but over the last year, who was the best? Good luck answering that one without starting a fight, right?
Well, that's what the NFL 1000 aims to do by scouting, grading and then ranking the best players at each position before putting them in order and breaking ties to come up with the top 1,000 players. No narratives, no fantasy football points, no "QBR"—this is cold, hard scouting.
You can find rankings for all other positions on our B/R NFL 1000 main page.
The B/R 1000 metric is based heavily on scouting each player and grading the key criteria for each position. The criteria are weighted according to importance for a possible best score of 100.
Potential is not taken into consideration. Nor are career accomplishments.
Defensive ends who played the majority of their snaps in a 4-3 alignment are judged on their run-stopping skills (40 points), pass-rush ability (55 points) and value as a starter or backup (five points). How do we value starter points? If a player is a consistent starter, he gets the full five points. Spot starters received four points. Players scoring in the three-, two- or one-point range are not considered starting caliber.
In the case of ties, our team asked, "Which player would I rather have on my team?" and set the rankings accordingly.
Subjective? Yes. But ties are no fun.
Each player was scouted by me and a team of experienced evaluators (Dan Bazal, Cian Fahey, Dan Hope, Marshal Miller, Justis Mosqueda) with these key criteria in mind. The following scouting reports and grades are the work of months of film study from our team.
All statistics from Pro Football Focus. Players' heights, weights and seasons played from NFL.com.
40. Kony Ealy, Carolina Panthers
1 of 40
Run Defense
As a rookie in 2014, Kony Ealy (6’4”, 275 lbs, one season) showed that he has the size and strength to be a stout run defender but also that he needs to continue working on his game to be regularly productive. While he was able to hold his ground effectively, he struggled with misreading plays and getting off blockers. He has enough athleticism to recover from some of his mistakes, though he is not a defender who will make plays all over the field in pursuit, and he is an inconsistent tackler.
Pass Rush
Ealy came along strong as a pass-rusher late in his rookie season, recording a sack in each of the Carolina Panthers’ final three regular-season games. He must continue to work on refining his pass-rushing moves, but his great length and violent hands can make him a tough player to keep blocked. He doesn’t have great speed for an outside rusher, but if he can continue to make strides from a technical standpoint, he has enough burst and power to be a dangerous threat off the edge.
Starter
Ealy did not start any games as a rookie but has enough talent to crack the lineup as Greg Hardy’s replacement if he performs well in training camp and the preseason this summer.
Overall
39. Brian Robison, Minnesota Vikings
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Run Defense
Playing the run has never been the strong suit of Brian Robison (6’3”, 259 lbs, eight seasons). He enables blockers to turn him away from the ball-carrier or drive him down the field too easily. Even when he is able to hold his ground and get in front of a run, he struggles to disengage when he has a man on him. He can close quickly in pursuit when he has room to run free, but he lacks the strength to consistently free himself.
Pass Rush
Robison’s pass-rushing production fell off significantly in 2014. He had only 4.5 sacks, his lowest single-season total since becoming a full-time starter, and only 52 pressures, compared to 83 in 2013. He still turns the corner well but is slow off the snap, and he was not nearly as active with his hands in 2014 as he had been in previous years.
Starter
A down year for Robison in 2014 leaves reason to be concerned about the 32-year-old’s future. His physical and technical skills both appear to be diminishing.
Overall
38. Benson Mayowa, Oakland Raiders
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Run Defense
Benson Mayowa (6’3”, 252 lbs, two seasons) started to see significant playing time for the first time in his NFL career during the second half of the Oakland Raiders’ season last year, and he showed intriguing upside as a run defender in the process. Despite being relatively thin for an NFL defensive end, Mayowa showed stoutness in holding his ground on the edge. His lateral agility enables him to slide off blocks, while he can also chase down runners with his speed in pursuit.
Pass Rush
Mayowa has the quickness and length that you want in a pass-rusher, but his game remains very raw. While he is able to fire out of his stance quickly and bend flexibly around the corner, he often looks out of control in the process with his limbs flailing in multiple directions. To become a more successful NFL edge defender, he must develop a more refined set of pass-rushing moves.
Starter
With his physical tools at just 23 years old, Mayowa still has the potential to emerge as a long-term starter, but he must develop a more complete technical skill set.
Overall
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37. Darryl Tapp, Detroit Lions
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Run Defense
When he gets moving in the right direction toward a run, Darryl Tapp (6’1”, 270 lbs, nine seasons) has the closing speed to catch up in pursuit. Despite carrying a small frame, he exhibits good ability to claw his way through traffic and work toward inside runs as well. However, he’s not a very instinctive run defender. He has limited strength to anchor, so when he takes a misstep, he tends to get driven away from the play.
Pass Rush
Tapp has limited first-step quickness but gets faster as he accelerates, enabling him to bring sneaky pressure. He doesn’t have great pass-rushing moves but shows some ability to dip around the edge. He can also line up situationally as a defensive tackle, though he was not used regularly as a pass-rusher in 2014.
Starter
At this point in his career, Tapp is only a rotational-level player, having only seen irregular playing time in recent seasons. Still, the 30-year-old’s ability in pursuit and versatility to play both outside and inside make him a valuable player off the bench.
Overall
36. Anthony Spencer, New Orleans Saints
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Run Defense
Anthony Spencer (6’3”, 265 lbs, eight seasons) didn’t see a lot of playing time in run defense last season (139 snaps), but he was effective when he was on the field. A 3-4 outside linebacker for most of his career, Spencer is a solid tackler who is at his best in pursuit. He is a fluid mover in space who can still move his feet quickly and change directions agilely. He lacks the ideal frame and strength for an anchor on the edge, but he usually holds up adequately and can fight through blocks with his hands.
Pass Rush
Spencer’s explosiveness has diminished since he underwent microfracture knee surgery in 2013. He does not have the hand skills to make up for it. He can still turn the corner with speed once he gets going, but his lack of first-step quickness and technical ability limits his ability to win off the snap. He finished the 2014 regular season with just one half-sack.
Starter
A Pro Bowler in 2012, Spencer’s ability to play at that level has been robbed ever since by injuries. That said, his play improved over the course of last season, and he continues to be a high-effort player. If he is able to stay healthy in 2015, the 31-year-old could be a valuable addition to the New Orleans Saints' rotation as an edge defender.
Overall
35. Lamarr Houston, Chicago Bears
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Run Defense
Rated as one of the NFL’s best run-stopping defensive ends in 2013, Lamarr Houston (6’3”, 300 lbs, five seasons) failed to play up to the same standard in 2014. He has an excellent combination of size and athleticism that makes him tough to move off the line of scrimmage, while he can also track down ball-carriers in pursuit. However, his production as a run defender dropped drastically in the eight games he played last season. As he struggled to get off blocks and finish plays, he recorded just 11 total tackles.
Pass Rush
In his first season with the Chicago Bears, Houston worked mostly as an inside rusher, which is where he is most effective. He has a good burst off the snap and can convert that burst to power as a bull-rusher, but he struggles to disengage from blocks when his initial moves stall. From the edge, Houston needs an angle to the quarterback to be effective, as he lacks flexibility turning the corner.
Starter
Houston’s debut campaign in Chicago was already on track to be a disappointment when he tore his ACL celebrating his first and only sack of the season late in a blowout loss to the New England Patriots. It’s unclear exactly how he will fit in the Bears’ new 3-4 defense—although he is listed as an outside linebacker, he is a better fit to play defensive end—but either way, Chicago will hope that he plays far more like he did in 2013 than he did in 2014.
Overall
34. Jarius Wynn, Buffalo Bills
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Run Defense
A journeyman who had been with three different teams in the two years prior to last season, Jarius Wynn (6’3”, 285 lbs, six seasons) emerged as a solid addition to the Buffalo Bills' defensive line rotation in 2014, especially as a run defender. Stout as an anchor on the edge, Wynn is also able to play inside and hold his ground there. He lacks the speed to cover significant ground in pursuit, but he is able to sift his way through traffic to make plays between the tackles.
Pass Rush
Wynn is not explosive in any way, and that limits him as a pass-rusher. He is strong when it comes to ripping his way off blocks, however, and that enables him to achieve some pressures on secondary effort. He recorded only two sacks in 2014 but saw limited action in 11 games.
Starter
The Bills are moving back to a 3-4 defense in 2015, which will put Wynn in his more natural position of playing as a 5-technique. He’s never going to be a dynamic playmaker on an NFL defensive line, but he’s capable of providing solid depth.
Overall
33. Eugene Sims, St. Louis Rams
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Run Defense
Eugene Sims (6’6”, 269 lbs, five seasons) is a physically gifted defensive end who offers a great combination of athleticism to chase down plays and strength to maintain gap control. He is good at using his long arms to keep linemen off his body, and he shows great hustle in going after runs in pursuit. He is not the best at shedding blocks, which limits his tackling opportunities, but he does not typically get overpowered out of plays.
Pass Rush
Sims has a top-notch combination of first-step quickness, lateral agility and length that enables him to take advantage of open rush lanes and close on quarterbacks quickly. His measurables allow him to be effective as both an inside and outside rusher. A lack of technique, however, inhibits Sims from reaching his physical potential. Limited hand skill and power keep Sims from working through or around most blockers. He had only three sacks in 2014.
Starter
Embedded within a talent-laden St. Louis Rams defensive line, Sims is able to provide quality rotational depth at both defensive end and defensive tackle but is unlikely to ever be a full-time starter in the NFL.
Overall
32. O'Brien Schofield, Atlanta Falcons
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Run Defense
Although he technically classifies as a 4-3 defensive end, O’Brien Schofield (6’3”, 260 lbs, five seasons) spent most of his time with the Seattle Seahawks playing from a two-point stance as a hybrid linebacker. Playing in space is what suits Schofield best. He exhibits good tackling range in pursuit and is good at using his hands to maneuver off blockers. He’s not quite strong enough to consistently play at the line of scrimmage, as he gets turned and driven out of plays too easily.
Pass Rush
Schofield has the speed to be a dangerous pass-rusher, but he doesn’t turn the corner well enough to take full advantage of his athleticism. Linear in his movements, Schofield struggles to arc his way into the pocket around offensive tackles. He doesn’t show much ability to convert his speed to power, and he has quick hands but ineffective pass-rushing moves. He recorded only two sacks in 2014.
Starter
Schofield followed former Seahawks defensive coordinator Dan Quinn this offseason to the Atlanta Falcons, where he will likely play a role similar to the one he played in Seattle. His versatility to play both defensive end and outside linebacker is an asset, but he projects as only a rotational player.
Overall
31. Derek Wolfe, Denver Broncos
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Run Defense
Derek Wolfe (6’5”, 285 lbs, three seasons) bulked back up last year after losing weight during the 2013 season, and doing so enabled him to emerge as a productive run defender who can play both outside and inside. His length and size allow him to play both on the edge and at defensive tackle, and he consistently holds his ground at both positions. He also exhibits the quickness and hand skills to shed through blocks—even double-teams—and make tackles around the line of scrimmage.
Pass Rush
Lacking the bendability to be an effective edge-rusher, Wolfe was moved inside for most pass-rushing situations last season. That said, he’s not particularly effective as an inside rusher, either. He has limited burst off the snap and is not an overpowering bull-rusher. He was credited with only 1.5 sacks, all of which came on combined efforts, in 2014.
Starter
There might not be any player on the Broncos roster who benefits more than Wolfe from the team’s switch to a 3-4 defense. Rather than bouncing back and forth between playing end and tackle with mixed results, Wolfe will be able to settle in at his natural position of 3-4 defensive end, which could put the 25-year-old in position to take his game to the next level.
Overall
30. William Gholston, Tampa Bay Buccaneers
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Run Defense
Nicknamed “Too Tall,” William Gholston (6’6”, 281 lbs, two seasons) has an optimal combination of size, length and strength for a run-stopping defensive end. He is able to move opponents into the backfield and rarely gets pushed backward off the line of scrimmage himself. He shows the ability to use his hands to work off blocks, and he is a sure tackler who had just one missed tackle last season. He has enough athleticism to hunt runners outside in pursuit and is able to hold up inside when asked to play defensive tackle.
Pass Rush
Gholston will probably never be better than a marginal pass-rusher. Without a significant burst off the snap, Gholston is too rigid and linear in his movements to beat blockers around their edges. He has finished each of his first two seasons in the NFL with just two sacks. To have any success getting after the quarterback, Gholston must start imposing power as a bull-rusher and develop a better set of pass-rushing moves.
Starter
Gholston began his sophomore season as a starter for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers but was benched in favor of Jacquies Smith for the final six games of the season. Gholston's run defense and ability to play both outside and inside make him a valuable rotational player, but his pass-rushing limitations could keep him from ever being a long-term starter.
Overall
29. Willie Young, Chicago Bears
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Run Defense
Despite being relatively slender for an NFL defensive end, Willie Young (6’4”, 251 lbs, five seasons) does a good job of anchoring on the edge and holding his ground against bigger offensive linemen. At times, he will allow blockers to get him in a compromising position and turn him around, but he exhibits good strength when his technique is right. He is also nimble in pursuit, enabling him to get out in front of outside runs on the perimeter.
Pass Rush
Young’s sack production rose significantly in 2014, as he had 10 quarterback takedowns, compared to just six in the first four years of his career. Even so, his overall effectiveness as a pass-rusher dropped: He had just 37 total pressures last season, compared to 60 the year before. Both fast around the outside and quick with his hands, Young can bring heat in a hurry when he wins off the snap. Once he gets blocked, however, he tends to stay blocked. He has no bull-rushing power and struggles to disengage.
Starter
Coming off a torn Achilles while transitioning to outside linebacker in the Chicago Bears’ new 3-4 defense, Young faces obstacles to getting back on the field in 2015. Once he gets healthy and adjusted, he has the potential to be an impact player, as his athleticism should suit him well in his new position.
Overall
28. Wallace Gilberry, Cincinnati Bengals
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Run Defense
Possessing the size and ability to play both outside and inside, Wallace Gilberry (6’2”, 275 lbs, seven seasons) is a reliable run defender. He can be overmatched by double-teams on the interior, but he can stoutly hold his ground on the edge. He is not an excellent tackler, but he shows the ability to fight his way through blocks and make plays between the hashes.
Pass Rush
Often utilized as a defensive tackle in pass-rushing situations, Gilberry is a hand-fighter who will not blow by blockers off the snap but can work his way through inside gaps on secondary effort. He’s not very effective as an edge-rusher, however, because he lacks first-step quickness and struggles to arc around the outside. Despite being a full-season starter for the first time in his career, Gilberry recorded only 1.5 sacks in 2014, the lowest total since his rookie season.
Starter
Gilberry performed adequately in a starting role this past season but will likely return to playing a role off the bench for the Cincinnati Bengals in 2015, following their offseason reacquisition of Michael Johnson. At 30 years old, Gilberry’s upside to become more than what he is now is limited.
Overall
27. Derrick Shelby, Miami Dolphins
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Run Defense
A rotational defensive lineman who plays both outside and inside, Derrick Shelby (6’2”, 282 lbs, three seasons) is a stout anchor who rarely gives up ground at the point of attack. His instincts can fail him at times, but his ability to slide laterally enables him to recover.
Pass Rush
Weak as a pass-rusher, Shelby offers almost no burst off the snap. He pops straight up out of his stance rather than staying low, which not only results in a slow first step but also keeps him from getting leverage on his opponents. He lacks the flexibility to turn the corner effectively, and his lack of length hurts him as well. He has more success rushing from the defensive tackle spot than he does on the edge, but he has only 5.5 sacks so far in his career.
Starter
Shelby’s run-stopping ability and versatility to play on the interior make him a valuable rotational player, but his limitations as a pass-rusher will likely keep him from ever being a starter.
Overall
26. Jonathan Massaquoi, Tennessee Titans
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Run Defense
When Jonathan Massaquoi (6’2”, 264 lbs, three seasons) keeps space between himself and his opposing blocker, he makes plays as a run defender. He has great speed in pursuit and also exhibits the lateral movement skills to slalom his way around blockers. Massaquoi runs into trouble when he has to anchor himself against an offensive lineman. He exhibits limited ability to hold his ground at the line and gets too easily driven away from the ball-carrier.
Pass Rush
Even though Massaquoi never became a regular in the Atlanta Falcons’ pass-rush rotation, he flashed impressive ability when he had opportunities. Massaquoi’s athleticism is his best asset—he can turn the corner with great speed and fluidity—but he also offers very good length. The tools are all in place for Massaquoi to be a great pass-rusher, but he needs to continue developing his technique to become a consistent source of pressure.
Starter
Waived by the Atlanta Falcons this offseason, Massaquoi was picked up by the Tennessee Titans, which will make him an outside linebacker in their 3-4 defense. The 27-year-old has seen limited playing time so far in his NFL career, but the new position could enable him to flourish, given his ability to make plays when he has room to run.
Overall
25. Justin Tuck, Oakland Raiders
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Run Defense
Justin Tuck (6’5”, 265 lbs, 10 seasons) continued to be one of the best run-stopping defensive ends in the game in 2014. A stout anchor, Tuck consistently holds his ground whether he is playing outside or inside. He is good at working his way inside to crash in on runs, and he is a strong tackler. Tuck is not very nimble in pursuit, especially now in the back end of his career, but he continues to be highly disruptive between the tackles.
Pass Rush
Four of Tuck’s five sacks last season came from interior defensive line positions, where Tuck does his best work as a pass-rusher. Rushing from the defensive tackle spot enables Tuck to play to his strengths. He has good straight-line acceleration and some lateral agility, and he is strong and physical with his hands. He’s not very effective as an outside rusher, however, because of his diminishing ability to turn the corner with flexibility and speed.
Starter
At 32 years old, Tuck is on the back end of his career, but he is still able to provide high-quality play when utilized to his strengths as an edge-setting run defender and interior pass-rusher.
Overall
24. Jeremy Mincey, Dallas Cowboys
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Run Defense
When he is able to get his arms locked out on his opponent and set his anchor, Jeremy Mincey (6’4”, 280 lbs, seven seasons) can impose his size and be a stout edge-setter. He also has a rapid burst, which enables him to dart around offensive linemen and get into the backfield to attack a run quickly. The problem for Mincey is that he does not always play to his strengths and is prone to letting blockers get into his pads and turn him away from runs. He does not have great pursuit speed, despite his quick start, and his tackling can be sketchy.
Pass Rush
Mincey has a very good combination of size and first-step quickness that makes him dangerous. When he gets a good start off the snap, he can throw his length and momentum into a blocker and rock his opponent backward toward the quarterback. He’s not too flexible around the corner, but his ability to bull-rush and work off blocks with his hands makes up for it. In addition to rushing from the outside, Mincey also shows the ability to bring pressure from the defensive tackle spot, where he lines up in some pass-rushing situations.
Starter
Mincey’s NFL career has been a roller coaster that has bounced between starting gigs and being unable to get on the field at all. The 2014 season was a high, as he started all 16 games for the Dallas Cowboys, but he’ll have stiff competition to keep his starting job in 2015 with their offseason additions of Greg Hardy and Randy Gregory.
Overall
23. Jared Allen, Chicago Bears
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Run Defense
Jared Allen (6’6”, 270 lbs, 11 seasons) was one of the NFL’s most productive run defenders in 2014. He recorded 28 run stops, the fourth most among 4-3 defensive ends, and 56 total tackles. Allen’s success against the run comes as a result of his instincts and strength. He is quick to diagnose a play and move toward the direction of a runner, while he is also very good at anchoring and holding his ground on the edge.
Pass Rush
At 32 years old last season, Allen did not exhibit the same burst and agility as a pass-rusher that he had earlier in his career. He recorded only 5.5 sacks, the lowest single-season total of his career. Allen still has an excellent motor—that might be the best quality of his game—and he has strong arms that he can use to tear his way off blocks. Even so, it’s reasonable to think that Allen’s days of being a star pass-rusher might be over.
Starter
Allen’s career appears to be on its decline. The Chicago Bears’ switch to a 3-4 defense, which will have him playing outside linebacker for the first time in his career, likely won’t help matters. Allen’s fading athleticism will be a hindrance in that transition, and he could soon end up being a rotational player rather than an every-down starter.
Overall
22. Osi Umenyiora, Free Agent
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Run Defense
Utilized primarily as a situational pass-rusher last season, Osi Umenyiora (6’3”, 255 lbs, 11 seasons) played only 51 snaps of run defense. Holding the edge has never been a strength of Umenyiora’s game, but he is an efficient tackler who has remained athletic enough to chase runners out to the perimeter.
Pass Rush
Even though his playing time was cut significantly this past season, Umenyiora continued to put pressure on quarterbacks when he had opportunities. His stamina to string together moves and work his way off blockers has diminished, but he still exhibits good speed around the edge and the quick-twitch movements to dart his way past blockers. He recorded 35 total pressures in 2014.
Starter
As he is 33 years old and currently an unsigned free agent, Umenyiora’s career could be coming to an end. He has the tools to be productive in a situational pass-rushing role, but his days as an every-down player are over.
Overall
21. Olivier Vernon, Miami Dolphins
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Run Defense
Olivier Vernon (6’2”, 268 lbs, three seasons) has made steady improvements so far in his career as a run defender. Getting off blocks can be a struggle, but he is good at sustaining his ground on the edge and keeping linemen off his body. When he is able to turn in on a blocker, he has the power to drive his opponent toward a run and make a play. He also has the speed to chase the ball down in pursuit, though he is not a great finisher of tackles.
Pass Rush
Vernon has the tools to be a great NFL pass-rusher, but his technique can still stand to improve. He has a very quick first step off the snap and can turn the corner with good speed and flexibility. He shows the ability to carry his burst into a blocker, get into his opponent’s chest and drive his man back toward the quarterback. He can be effective with his spin move but is overly reliant on it, and he does not consistently use his hands to disengage from protection.
Starter
A 16-game starter for the Miami Dolphins in 2014, Vernon was solid but not spectacular in both the pass and run games. Physically gifted and only 24 years old, Vernon enters the final year of his rookie contract with a chance to earn a big pay raise next offseason if he can take his game to the next level in 2015.
Overall
20. DeMarcus Ware, Denver Broncos
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Run Defense
Having played 3-4 outside linebacker for most of his NFL career, DeMarcus Ware (6’4”, 258 lbs, 10 seasons) is still very good at maneuvering in space and making plays on ball-carriers in pursuit. He is a strong, consistent tackler who can make plays all over the field. He’s not stout enough to stand up offensive tackles at the point of attack, but his ability to get off blocks with his hand skills and quickness enables him to still make plays around the line of scrimmage.
Pass Rush
Ware is no longer as explosive as he was during the prime of his career, but he is still great at dipping around an offensive tackle’s outside shoulder and turning the corner with speed. Skilled with his hands, Ware continues to deploy a wide variety of pass-rushing moves. With 10 quarterback takedowns in 2014, Ware recorded the eighth double-digit-sack season of his career.
Starter
Ware’s years of being an All-Pro candidate are likely over, but the 32-year-old is still capable of being a productive every-down edge defender in the NFL. As it will likely take Denver Broncos first-round pick Shane Ray some time to adjust to the team’s new 3-4 defensive scheme, Ware should continue to see a great deal of playing time in 2015 as a starting outside linebacker.
Overall
19. Carlos Dunlap, Cincinnati Bengals
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Run Defense
The sheer length and size of Carlos Dunlap (6’6”, 280 lbs, five seasons) make him a tough matchup in the run game. He does allow blockers to get into his body at times, which can make him movable, but he exhibits great strength when he is able to lock out his long arms on his opponent. A great athlete for his size, Dunlap can make plays all over the line of scrimmage and is a consistent tackler.
Pass Rush
Dunlap lacks the explosive burst and outside speed to be an elite pass-rusher, but he has a well-rounded skill set that makes up for it. At his best as a bull-rusher, Dunlap shows consistent ability to push offensive tackles back toward the quarterback. He also has very good lateral agility, which enables him to sidestep across blockers and beat them inside. Combining his power and quickness with his length enables Dunlap to wear opponents down and work his way to the quarterback.
Starter
Signed to the Cincinnati Bengals through the 2018 season, Dunlap continues to be a cornerstone of their defensive line. He played 964 snaps in 2014, the fourth most of all 4-3 defensive ends, and is able to provide quality play in all situations as both a pass and run defender.
Overall
18. Damontre Moore, New York Giants
23 of 40
Run Defense
A lean defensive end with limited upper-body strength, Damontre Moore (6’5”, 250 lbs, two seasons) is too prone to allowing blockers to get into his body and drive him off the line of scrimmage. Most of Moore’s plays against the run come in pursuit, as he is a good athlete who consistently hustles. He played only 90 snaps of run defense in 2014.
Pass Rush
Moore began to break out as a pass-rusher in his sophomore season, registering the first 5.5 sacks of his career. From a technical standpoint, his game is still developing. Nonetheless, he was productive in limited action this past season because he is fast and fluid around the corner, while he is also good at getting leverage on blockers and working through them on the bull rush.
Starter
At only 22 years old, Moore has the potential to keep getting better. He will need to be at his best to see significant playing time in 2015, as the New York Giants’ defensive end rotation looks to be as deep as ever.
Overall
17. Kroy Biermann, Atlanta Falcons
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Run Defense
Kroy Biermann (6’3”, 255 lbs, seven seasons) plays run defense on the edge the way it would be taught in a textbook. Consistently able to keep blockers off his pads and hold his ground at the line of scrimmage, Biermann is also able to use his strength and hand technique to work his way through blockers and make tackles. He had the most run stops among all 4-3 defensive ends in 2014.
Pass Rush
The Atlanta Falcons had one of the NFL’s worst pass-rush units in 2014, and Biermann’s mediocrity in that regard was one reason why. When a play takes time to develop, Biermann can be effective; he is good at using his hands to work off blocks and can change directions fluidly to pursue a scrambling quarterback. He is not a player who can bring quick pressure, however, because he lacks forward explosiveness off the snap.
Starter
As good as Biermann is against the run, his value is limited by the reality that putting pressure on the passer is what makes edge defenders money in today’s NFL. The 29-year-old was re-signed by the Falcons for less than $2 million this offseason.
Overall
16. George Johnson, Tampa Bay Buccaneers
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Run Defense
A significant player within a defensive line rotation for the first time in his NFL career in 2014, George Johnson (6’4”, 263 lbs, three seasons) demonstrated adequate ability as a run defender. He won't overpower any offensive linemen, but he is good at using his length to keep blockers off his frame and hold his ground at the line of scrimmage. He has the athleticism to chase down runs in pursuit and is a solid tackler.
Pass Rush
Johnson recorded the first six sacks of his career this past season and was a regular source of pressure off the bench for the Detroit Lions. He is a nimble athlete with good length and the ability to bend. To take his game to the next level, Johnson must continue to work on developing his pass-rushing moves.
Starter
Johnson has never started a game in the NFL, but that is set to change in 2015. Acquired by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers this offseason, Johnson is expected to graduate to a starring role for his new team’s pass rush.
Overall
15. Charles Johnson, Carolina Panthers
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Run Defense
Despite being a big defensive end with good strength, Charles Johnson (6’2”, 285 lbs, eight seasons) is not a regular impact player against the run. When he has room to run toward a ball-carrier, he has the closing burst to get there and is a solid tackler. Around the line of scrimmage, however, he too often allows blockers to lock their hands on him and reposition him away from runs.
Pass Rush
Johnson has a combination of physical tools and technical skill that enables him to wreak havoc. He can't simply win with his speed around the edge, but he has a quick first step, bull-rush power and quick hands. Employing a diverse array of pass-rushing moves and a relentless motor, Johnson typically takes advantage when an opposing blocker makes a mistake. He had 72 total pressures in 2014, which tied him for the most among all 4-3 defensive ends.
Starter
He does not get the recognition of some of his more heralded counterparts at the position, but Johnson has consistently been one of the NFL’s best pass-rushers over the past half-decade. As Greg Hardy is no longer with the Carolina Panthers, they will continue to depend on Johnson to play a starring role.
Overall
14. William Hayes, St. Louis Rams
27 of 40
Run Defense
A nine-game starter for the St. Louis Rams after Chris Long went down with an injury last season, William Hayes (6’3”, 278 lbs, seven seasons) had the second-best run-stop percentage among 4-3 defensive ends who played at least 50 percent of their teams’ snaps against the run in 2014. Physically strong, Hayes is skilled at working his way inside to get in on run stops up the middle. He is good at keeping blockers off his frame and consistently holds his ground at the line of scrimmage.
Pass Rush
Despite seeing an increase in snaps from his first two seasons in St. Louis, Hayes’ sack production dropped to just four quarterback takedowns in 2014. Hayes does not have great explosiveness for an edge-rusher and cannot win with his speed alone, but he is strong and violent with his hands, enabling him to fight his way through blockers and toward opposing quarterbacks.
Starter
Overshadowed by his teammates on the Rams’ star-studded defensive line, Hayes has quietly emerged as a very good player in his own right. He is set to return to a backup role in 2015, with Long back in the lineup and healthy, but should continue to provide quality play, especially against the run, as a rotational player.
Overall
13. Cliff Avril, Seattle Seahawks
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Run Defense
The Seattle Seahawks made Cliff Avril (6’3”, 260 lbs, seven seasons) a 16-game starter in 2014—but not because of anything he does as a run defender. Not strong at the point of attack, Avril also takes sloppy angles to the ball and is an inefficient tackler. His speed enables him to chase down ball-carriers in pursuit, but he does not frequently make run stops around the line of scrimmage.
Pass Rush
With a quick burst off the snap and good flexibility to bend, Avril can beat offensive tackles around the outside with his speed alone. Complementing that, Avril is also a strong bull-rusher: By establishing a low center of gravity and sending power through his arms into his opponents’ pads, Avril can obtain leverage against taller offensive tackles and push them backward. Consistently disruptive off the edge, Avril had 64 total pressures in 2014, tied for the fifth most among 4-3 defensive ends.
Starter
Although Avril is truly best suited for a situational pass-rushing role, his explosiveness makes him tough to keep off the field. He is set to continue in a starting capacity for the Seahawks in 2015.
Overall
12. Cameron Jordan, New Orleans Saints
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Run Defense
Since entering the NFL in 2011, Cameron Jordan (6’4”, 287 lbs, four seasons) has consistently been one of the league’s best run-stopping defensive ends. Able to consistently hold his ground at the point of attack, Jordan is also powerful and violent with his hands, allowing him to stack and shed blocks and penetrate the backfield. He has enough agility to chase down runners and is a sound tackler.
Pass Rush
Utilized as both an interior and exterior defensive lineman in the New Orleans Saints’ hybrid defensive front, Jordan is most effective as a pass-rusher when he is lined up inside. Between the tackles, Jordan has the linear burst and hand strength to challenge blockers and the power to push opponents backward. Outside, Jordan lacks the bendability to effectively rush around offensive tackles on the edge.
Starter
Able to line up as a 4-3 defensive end, 3-4 defensive end or 4-3 defensive tackle, Jordan is at his best as a 5-technique, but his value is in his versatility. Productive throughout his first contract with the Saints, the 25-year-old was rewarded this offseason with a five-year, $55 million contract extension that confirms his standing as one of the NFL’s top defensive linemen.
Overall
11. Jerry Hughes, Buffalo Bills
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Run Defense
For a relatively small defensive end, Jerry Hughes (6’2”, 254 pounds, five seasons) proved to be surprisingly stout against the run in 2015. While Hughes won't overpower blockers into the backfield, he has exhibited the strength and block-shedding ability to hold his ground at the line of scrimmage and make stops. Where Hughes can be really dangerous as a run defender, however, is in pursuit. He has great speed and is often able to cut off runners before they can turn the corner on his side.
Pass Rush
Hughes possesses a tremendous ability to accelerate off the snap. He shows great flexibility when bending around the edge, which enables him to win as an outside speed-rusher, while he also possesses the lateral agility to cut across blockers’ faces and beat them inside. Hughes’ all-around athleticism is his greatest asset, and it enables him to take advantage of even the smallest mistakes offensive linemen make. In two seasons with the Bills, Hughes has recorded 10 sacks each year.
Starter
Labeled as a bust after three disappointing seasons with the Indianapolis Colts, Hughes began making good on his potential as soon as he was traded to Buffalo in 2013. A dangerous speed-rusher who has performed well as both a 4-3 defensive end last year and as a 3-4 outside linebacker in 2013, Hughes cashed in on his improvement this offseason, when the Bills signed him to a five-year, $45 million contract extension.
Overall
10. Malik Jackson, Denver Broncos
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Run Defense
The best run-defending 4-3 end during the 2014 season, Malik Jackson (three seasons) is the total package on the edge. At 6’5” and 293 pounds, he’s able to stand up against left or right tackles and not surrender his spot. He’s also long enough to keep those blockers off his frame, which allows him to make plays behind the line or off the edge.
Pass Rush
Jackson isn’t a great pass-rusher yet, but the potential is there. In 2014, he notched just four sacks but added 11 quarterback hits and 29 hurries in the regular season. Jackson lacks the pure speed to bend the edge but has the power to push blockers off their spots and enough quickness to counter and close on the quarterback. If his playoff performance is any indicator of what’s to come—two hits and four hurries on Andrew Luck—Jackson is about to take off.
Starter
Jackson emerged on the scene in 2014 as a starter late in the year, but early in the season he was invaluable as a role player. Regardless of his snap count, when Jackson was on the field, he was among the best defensive ends in the game.
Overall
9. Mario Williams, Buffalo Bills
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Run Defense
Mario Williams (6’6”, 292 lbs, nine seasons) is one of the biggest 4-3 defensive ends in the league, and he uses his size to his advantage. Strong at the point of attack, Williams is able to consistently hold his ground against right tackles and set the edge. He has never posted huge tackling numbers, but he is rarely driven off the line of scrimmage, while he also has enough speed to chase runners out to the perimeter in pursuit.
Pass Rush
Williams, who tied for fourth in the NFL with a career-high 14.5 sacks in 2014, is one of the most complete pass-rushers in the league. A tremendous athlete for his size, Williams can win with his speed around the edge, while he is also strong enough to overpower blockers and highly skilled at using his hands to shed blocks. Virtually always lined up against the right tackle in Buffalo’s defense, Williams is often able to overmatch his opponent.
Starter
Three years into a six-year, $96 million contract with the Bills, Williams has played up to his high price tag thus far. Entering the 2015 season at 30 years old, Williams has shown no signs of slowing down and continues to be among the NFL’s elite edge defenders.
Overall
8. Junior Galette, New Orleans Saints
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Run Defense
A smaller (6’2”, 258 lbs, five seasons) rush end built more like a linebacker, Junior Galette can get moved around in the run game. When met head-to-head, he’ll surrender his ground but does fight through contact, and he can shed blockers off his frame to make plays in the backfield. With 27 solo tackles in 2014, Galette turned in his most balanced performance yet.
Pass Rush
Galette bounced between left and right defensive end—and sometimes outside linebacker—in Rob Ryan’s defensive scheme, and it paid off, as offensive linemen were confused and thrown off guard. Galette produced with his shoulder dip and ability to drive through contact with his legs, turning in 10 sacks, 13 hits and 45 hurries in 16 games. His natural leverage, due to his size, allows Galette to enjoy a nice advantage over taller, longer blockers who struggle to get their hands under his pads.
Starter
A versatile pass-rusher with the ability to stand up or put his hand in the dirt, Galette has worked his tail off to crack the top 10. Talent-wise, he should stay here, but 2015 could be different after video surfaced of Galette striking a woman with a belt in a beach brawl.
Overall
7. Jason Pierre-Paul, New York Giants
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Run Defense
A stout run defender with the awareness, power and length to stuff the run, Jason Pierre-Paul (6'5", 278 lbs, five seasons) had the second-most solo tackles among 4-3 defensive ends in 2014. Closing down on backside runs has become his specialty, but Pierre-Paul can also line up inside the tackle and shoot gaps to take away rushing lanes. He’s a big, strong tackler, though he did miss 11 tackles in 2014—something that kept his score down.
Pass Rush
The 2014 season was another big one for Pierre-Paul, as he notched 13 sacks, nine quarterback hits and an impressive 38 hurries. Put it all together, and JPP was frustrating quarterbacks on 60 snaps in total. With his first-step quickness and ability to convert speed to power, offensive tackles are constantly left guessing on how to stop the oversized athlete.
Starter
Injuries slowed JPP down in previous seasons, but a healthy 2014 saw him return to an elite level as a pass-rusher and run-stuffer. He’s among the most balanced defensive ends in football.
Overall
6. Everson Griffen, Minnesota Vikings
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Run Defense
At 6’3” and 273 pounds, Everson Griffen (five seasons) has the power to lock horns with offensive tackles and stop the run on the edge. Playing right defensive end, he’s often on the backside of the run, but Griffen does an excellent job of pursuing down the line and squeezing down on cutback lanes. His 44 solo tackles in 2014 were among the best for 4-3 defensive ends.
Pass Rush
Griffen isn’t the super-twitchy edge-rusher you’ll see at right end for other teams, but he’s a good mix of power, speed, length and technique. Griffen won’t give up if turned down on his first effort and has the lower-body strength to bull-rush through left tackles. He combined for an impressive 11 sacks, 13 hits and 40 quarterback hurries last year.
Starter
Griffen might not be an elite pass-rusher, but his three-down ability makes him a no-brainer as a starter and building block along the defensive line.
Overall
5. Cameron Wake, Miami Dolphins
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Run Defense
At 6’3” and 262 pounds, Cameron Wake (six seasons) isn’t built to be a great run-stuffer. Playing left defensive end means he’s often put in position to set the edge against right-handed running teams. That’s how Wake accumulated 23 solo tackles in 2014, but his impact and consistency in engaging blockers and getting to the ball-carrier were merely average. Without great power or bulk, he’s too easily moved around.
Pass Rush
Wake has consistently been one of the best pass-rushers in the NFL, and in 2014, he owned that status again with 12 sacks, 14 hits and 39 quarterback hurries. Wake is able to beat right tackles from his left end position with a deadly shoulder dip to get under the hands of a blocker, and from there, his acceleration to turn the corner and get to the quarterback is top-notch. From top to bottom, Wake is built to be a dominant pass-rusher. With great flexibility and awareness, Wake is rarely shut down.
Starter
Even as he ages, Wake is still a game-changer at defensive end. He’s a legitimate star and an All-Pro-caliber player.
Overall
4. Robert Quinn, St. Louis Rams
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Run Defense
People don’t look at Robert Quinn (four seasons) and think about his ability to stuff the run, but the same quickness and toughness that make him a feared pass-rusher also make him a threat to stop the run. Offensive tackles have a hard time getting their hands on Quinn and keeping him contained, given his quickness off the snap and his secondary moves. His 33 stops in 2014 show that when teams do run off his side, he’s able to stick his nose in and stop the ball.
Pass Rush
Quinn may be the prototypical right defensive end in the NFL today. At 6’4” and 264 pounds, he has power, speed and the length to keep blockers off his frame. Those tools combine to make him one of the most consistent producers in the game. That was the story in 2014, when he added 11 sacks, 15 hits and 27 hurries in what would be considered a down year statistically. Quinn’s ability to win with speed, power or technique makes him an almost-perfect pass-rusher.
Starter
A surefire starter and perennial All-Pro candidate, Quinn is making a name for himself as one of the best defensive ends in the NFL.
Overall
3. Ezekiel Ansah, Detroit Lions
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Run Defense
In his second season as a pro, Ezekiel Ansah (6’6”, 278 lbs) lived up to that No. 5 overall pick the Detroit Lions used on him in the 2013 draft. Ansah, with his length, size and ability to fight through blockers, improved his run defense tremendously. He added 34 solo tackles to his resume in 2014, and while his 10 missed tackles offer an area of improvement, Ansah really sparked the Lions defense from his right end position.
Pass Rush
The athleticism was always there for Ansah, but he needed time to mature as a player and learn some technique. He got that on-the-job training as a rookie and then exploded with 10 sacks, 20 hits and 34 quarterback hurries in his sophomore season. He has the quickness to loop around the edge and bend the corner, but he also has the strength to go right through a blocker.
Starter
Ansah may not get recognized among the best pass-rushers in the game, but that should be changing. At 26, he’s older than most third-year players, but Ansah’s potential is through the roof.
Overall
2. Robert Ayers, New York Giants
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Run Defense
A first-round pick out of Tennessee in 2009 by the Denver Broncos, Robert Ayers (6’3”, 275 lbs, six seasons) had the best year of his career in 2014 with the New York Giants. Playing as a rotational left end, Ayers was able to kick off right tackles and stop the outside run. He has the size and power to stand up against offensive tackles and the discipline to not get beat outside.
Pass Rush
A premier third-down pass-rusher, Ayers contributed five sacks, 12 hits and 29 hurries in his time on the field. He was consistently one of the most productive rush ends per snap, too. With good speed off the snap and the length to keep blockers off his body, Ayers is able to beat tackles with speed or power—and can convert one to the other on the go.
Starter
Some may not see it as fair to put a player this high who wasn’t an every-down starter, but Ayers’ talent and production warrant the ranking.
Overall
1. Michael Bennett, Seattle Seahawks
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Run Defense
With a defensive tackle’s build and the speed of a defensive end, Michael Bennett (6’4”, 274 lbs, six seasons) is able to stand up tall against the run and make plays. Bennett is a solid tackler, too, notching 31 stops and showing he can come off blockers to close on running backs. Offensive linemen can’t keep Bennett tied up consistently, and his signature quickness allows him to come off blocks to make tackles.
Pass Rush
Bennett is one of the most versatile players in the NFL—and his ability to rush the quarterback from the edge or inside is a huge asset. As seen in the Super Bowl, Bennett can line up as a 3-technique or true defensive end and get pressure. His combination of leverage, quickness and power makes him nearly unblockable for long stretches. In 2014, he had 53 quarterback hurries—tied for the most among 4-3 ends.
Starter
If you’re building a defensive line from scratch, Bennett may not be the first pick, but he is one of the first players you’re taking. His impact, production and versatility combined to make him the best 4-3 defensive end from the 2014 season.
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