Do You Really Need a Premier Pass-Rusher To Be Successful in the NFL?

It’s no surprise that effectively putting pressure on the opposing team’s quarterback is an essential ingredient to success.

Of course, this doesn’t mean that every team needs to have their version of Lawrence Taylor.

If you take a look at the stingy defenses in recent history, it is evident that teams have found ways to generate a pass rush without having a single dominating force off the edge.

For example, last year, the Saints’ defensive coordinator, Gregg Williams, found ways to dial up creative blitzes that attacked the quarterback from various angles. Coincidentally, they ended up taking home the Lombardi Trophy.

Moreover, the Miami Dolphins didn’t have a single player register double-digit sacks. Nonetheless, they ranked tied for third best in the league, along with the Philadelphia Eagles and San Francisco 49ers.

The 49ers, too, failed to have a sole player record gaudy numbers. In fact, their sack leader, Manny Lawson, only had a mediocre 6.5 sacks.

Instead, they found production from several different players as seven players had 3.0 or more sacks, topping the league in that category.

Obviously, the hypothetical scenario of having a player like DeMarcus Ware or Dwight Freeney is enticing. However, it has been proved on numerous accounts, that, that is not the only method of success.

In my mind, I would rather have a defense with versatility and depth because it allows opportunities to create confusion, as well as maintain a rotation and keep players energized and fresh.

Not to mention it adds constructive competition within the team since each player is fighting for not only playing time, but a roster spot.

Moreover, for an offense it’s much easier to stop one player, as opposed to several. This theory was proven when Jared Allen’s usually high impact was completely negated by LT Joe Thomas.

It’s apparent that the league is quickly evolving in many senses. One element I expect to change is team’s philosophies regarding pass-rushers.

While the value of a solid pass-rusher is still there, I think the emphasis on addressing the position early with a big-name player will reduce in the near future. Organizations are realizing that they can utilize the “more the merrier” approach to their advantage.

Just last month, during the draft, we witnessed this process in action. Unlike previous years, the first pass-rusher taken wasn’t until the 15th overall selection. On the other hand, multiple were taken in later rounds.

That said, I’m confident that teams like the 49ers will continue to have one of the most feared pass rushes in the league. Not only is it more effective, but I believe it’s more efficient too. The NFL is changing before our eyes. It’s going to be very interesting to see how things all pan out moving forward.