4. Linval Joseph
One of the most dominating defensive tackles in the NFL, Joseph eats up the middle of the offensive line and makes it hard for opposing offenses to open up running lanes up the middle of the field.
But what makes Joseph even more dangerous is that he is not only big, but powerful and athletic for his size. He gets pressure up the gut that can not only intimidate quarterbacks and force them out of the pocket, but can also result in sacks.
Joseph always seems to make some big plays during games to stop other teams in their tracks, which should continue to be the case going forward.
3. Xavier Rhodes
The Vikings had gone a long time without having a true shutdown corner until they drafted Xavier Rhodes. The physical cornerback has found a way to stop some of the highest profile pass catchers in the NFL while earning a lot of respect from experts and fans.
The impact that Rhodes makes on a game can be difficult to see on a stat sheet. Since quarterbacks will sometimes avoid throwing the ball his direction and opt for a different target to pick on, he won’t get a lot of interceptions or pass defenses.
Still, even with passes not always getting thrown his way, Rhodes managed to snag a pair of interceptions last season and have 56 total tackles. He will be tested again this season by some of the best offenses in the NFL, but he should prove more than capable of keeping the “Rhodes Closed”.
2. Everson Griffen
Until he suffered a foot injury, Griffen had a great streak going last season where he was getting at least one sack per week. While that streak did end, the high-motor and toughness of the defensive end kept him on the field.
Even hurt, Griffen had an amazing season. 13 sacks and 4 forced fumbles are more than impressive enough for a healthy pass rusher, but to do so while hampered is even better.
With Griffen coming back healthy and the acquisition of Sheldon Richardson to help the already amazing defensive line, Griffen could be in line for a career year…and left tackles around the NFL should be more than afraid.