The list of the top 25 players under 25 was released by Pro Football Focus and it included Minnesota Vikings young defensive end Danielle Hunter.
Expectations for the pass rush specialist Danielle Hunter were low when the athletic and talented, but raw defensive end was drafted by the Minnesota Vikings in the third round of the 2015 NFL Draft.
Hunter put together an impressive rookie campaign, flashing the skills needed to be a successful defensive end in the National Football League. Those skills got more refined as he earned more playing time, as he ended the year as the leader in sacks for Minnesota.
At only 22 years old, there are many great years left in the tank of Hunter. His accomplishments and potential haven’t gone unnoticed by Pro Football Focus, who included the pass rusher in their list of the top 25 players under the age of 25.
Here is what PFF had to say about Hunter in the article:
"“Hunter is still just 22 years old, and he only turned 22 in late October. He is younger than most of the rookie class that has just completed its first season in the league, and Hunter has just played his second, posting 13 sacks and 55 total pressures despite not being a full-time starter. If he were a rookie we would be tipping that performance as a sign of greatness, so year three could be something truly impressive.”"
Hunter should continue to challenge veteran Brian Robison for the starting defensive end position opposite Everson Griffen. Based on his performance during the first two seasons, it would be foolish not to find more playing time for this young pass rushing talent.
Next: Danielle Hunter has earned a shot at starting
Congratulations to Danielle Hunter for being named to the PFF “Top 25 under 25” list and the Minnesota Vikings for bringing out his talent. If he keeps up his fantastic work, he could find himself on this list for 2 more years, truly showing his accomplishments at such a young age.