40 Athletes from Other Sports Who Could Be NHL Enforcers

Nicholas GossApr 30, 2012

Being an NHL enforcer is not an easy job, and not many athletes, regardless of the sport, have what it takes to play the role.

However, there are a number of athletes in sports outside of hockey who could play the role well. Let's look at 40 players from other sports who could be NHL enforcers.

If you have a suggestion not included in this list, please mention it in the comment section.

Metta World Peace, NBA

1 of 40

We've seen Metta World Peace fight before and we have seen him elbow people. He doesn't shy away from contact.

He would also likely be a frequent visitor to Brendan Shanahan's office.

Jason Pierre-Paul, NFL

2 of 40

Jason Pierre-Paul plays a passionate game and isn't satisfied unless he's drilling the quarterback and making another big hit. He's a physical freak and a highly skilled player.

Steve Smith, NFL

3 of 40

Carolina Panthers wide receiver Steve Smith isn't a big guy, but his level of toughness is higher than most NFL players. He also doesn't shy away from physical play.

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Aaron Rowand, Baseball

4 of 40

Aaron Rowand has no fear when playing the game of baseball, especially on defense when he puts his body on the line to catch anything hit in his direction.

Ray Lewis, NFL

5 of 40

Baltimore Ravens linebacker Ray Lewis is one of the most passionate and physical football players ever. He's also one of the best leaders the game has today.

Vernon Davis, NFL

6 of 40

The San Francisco 49ers tight end is a very strong guy and never shies away from a big hit or contact in any way.

Patrick Willis, NFL

7 of 40

Patrick Willis of the San Francisco 49ers is the best linebacker in football and one guy you don't want hitting you.

Kenyon Martin, NBA

8 of 40

Kenyon Martin enjoys contact in the paint and always puts his body on the line for his team. He also has good size.

Didier Drogba, World Football

9 of 40

Didier Drogba has immense size and strength and he uses it to his advantage on the field all the time. He does dive a bit, but there's no doubting his physical attributes.

Clay Matthews, NFL

10 of 40

Green Bay Packers linebacker Clay Matthews is one of the most intense and physically gifted players in the NFL.

Steven Jackson, NFL

11 of 40

Steven Jackson is one of the toughest running backs in the NFL and loves contact. He breaks so many tackles and isn't afraid to hit defensive players, too.

Jon Jones, UFC

12 of 40

Jon Jones is an absolute beast and a star of UFC. He would be great in the NHL enforcer role.

Lucio, World Football

13 of 40

The Brazilian center back is a big, strong, and physical player who doesn't shy away from contact. He's a highly skilled player as well.

Blake Griffin, NBA

14 of 40

Los Angeles Clippers star Blake Griffin is a big, physical guy who loves to play a fast, up-tempo style of basketball.

Nemanja Vidic, World Football

15 of 40

Nemanja Vidic of Manchester United is a tall and physical player who loves to make hard tackles all over the field.

Nigel De Jong, World Football

16 of 40

Nigel De Jong of Manchester City isn't afraid to make big tackles and has injured several players throughout his career.

DeMarcus Ware, NFL

17 of 40

Not only is Dallas Cowboys pass rusher DeMarcus Ware a very strong player, he is quick and athletic, too.

LeBron James, NBA

18 of 40

Say what you want about Miami Heat star LeBron James, but he is a freight train with his combination of height, size and speed.

Someone that big on skates would be a heavy hitter for sure.

Terrell Suggs, NFL

19 of 40

If Baltimore Ravens defensive end Terrell Suggs is running at you, you turn around and run in the opposite syndrome.

Rajon Rondo, NBA

20 of 40

Boston Celtics point guard Rajon Rondo is not a big guy, but he has the attitude and temper needed to be an enforcer. He's one guy you don't want to mess with.

Jared Allen, NFL

21 of 40

Minnesota Vikings star defensive end Jared Allen doesn't stop working and is has amazing upper-body strength.

Yaya Toure, World Football

22 of 40

Yaya Toure is a physical player who can play multiple positions and defend guys bigger than he is with ease. He is also very durable and doesn't tire easily.