2012 NFL Free Agents: A Look at the Top 3 Pass-Rushers

Never have pass-rushers been more integral to a team's success than now, amid the passing renaissance in today's NFL.  

Who are the best, most ferocious pass-rushers available in the 2012 free-agency class? 

Let's take a look.

Robert Mathis, Indianapolis Colts

While Dwight Freeney is the pass-rushing headliner in Indianapolis, his defensive line buddy Robert Mathis has been a terrorizing force for the last nine years, totaling 83.5 sacks in that time frame.

He'll be 31 on February 26th, but still has a lot left in the tank.

The Colts are going through a massive rebuilding project, so there's a chance Mathis hits the open market, unless he's willing to take a hometown discount.

His tenacity and pure power off the edge would greatly benefit any NFL team.

Mario Williams, Houston Texans 

Williams was flourishing in Wade Phillips' 3-4 defensive scheme before a bicep tear ended his 2011 season. Through five games, the former No. 1 overall pick had five sacks. However, questions have arose surrounding his future with the Texans, following rookie Brooks Reed's six-sack season as Williams' replacement. 

His price tag will be a hefty one, but there's a chance his injury could drive down his contract demands a little. 

Teams that run the 3-4 looking for a menacing outside linebacker/defensive end that can consistently get to the passer, will be targeting Williams in March.

Cliff Avril, Detroit Lions

Yes, the Atlanta Falcons' John Abraham is also a free agent, but my guess is they retain him, and allow him to finish out his career in the ATL. Also, he'll be 34 before the start of next season, so there most likely won't be a huge faction of teams going after him.

That leaves Avril, the emerging star for the Lions in 2011. This Purdue product has increased his sack total in each of his four seasons with the team and had 11.5 quarterback takedowns this season.

At 25-years-old, he'll be one of the hottest defensive commodities during this free-agency period.

He's got a tremendous burst off the edge and is powerful at 6'3'' and 260 pounds.

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