We have moved to the defensive side of the ball with our NFC West ranking series. Today we look at the best interior defenders in the division. Obviously, Aaron Donald is at the top of the list, as he is one of the very best players in the NFL, regardless of position.
Here are the top six, where two are on the Cardinals.
No. 6: Corey Peters, Cardinals
Peters is one of the steadiest, most consistent performers you never hear about outside of his team’s market. He has been that way ever since he came into the league. He is good against the run. He had 2.5 sacks last year and he is bright and a leader. No team would regret having him.
No. 5: Darius Philon, Cardinals
Philon is in the NFC West for the first time after signing with the Cardinals this offseason. Each of the last two years he got significant playing time, he was steady and productive. He had 33 tackles in 2018 with seven for loss and four sacks.
No. 4: Michael Brockers, Rams
Brockers’ production declined in 2018 from a pass-rushing standpoint, but he still gives the Rams solid production up front overall. He is the top of the solid players at the position.
No. 3: Jarran Reed, Seahawks
Reed turned out to be much more than just a run-stuffing, one-dimensional DT. He was solid his first two seasons and then exploded for 10.5 sacks last year after combining for three his first two years. He is the force on the interior of Seattle’s defensive line.
No. 2: DeForest Buckner, 49ers
Buckner was great in 2018 and could break out and be even more productive this coming season. He, like Reed, exploded as a pass rusher. He had nine combined in 2016 and 2017 then had 12 last year. He would top the list of DTs in almost any division, but the problem is the guy who dominates the entire league at No. 1. But No. 2 isn’t bad.
No. 1: Aaron Donald, Rams
Donald is simply extraordinary. He was already incredible before last year and then he got even better, leading the league with 20.5 sacks, which is ridiculous for anyone and even more so for someone playing inside.
He is well on his way to the Hall of Fame and he has been with the team for offseason work for the first time in a couple of years.
Is it possible for him to be even better?
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