Getting Home: Ranking The Pass Rushes Of The NFC East -

Life on any NFL defense starts with the pass rush. In the NFC East, that fact does not change. Which team sits on top? Surprises abound.

In football’s most confusing division, the NFC East, only the pass rush remains constant. In fact, any of the four teams can lay a possible claim to the crown. However, if you look deeper, a few distinct differences will automatically order this line. Now, not every team runs the same scheme. As a result, you will see linebackers included in this article. With that said, let the arguments begin.

1. Washington Commanders

Despite an offseason filled with scandals and criticism, Washington’s pass rush could eventually carry them to playoff contention. If you look at the Commanders on defense, the front four stands out in the NFC East. First, the starting tackles, Daron Payne and Jonathan Allen combined for 13.5 sacks. You’d think that this duo would feature solely a power-based rush set. However, they each use quick hands and even foot movements to beat blockers as well. Meanwhile, on the outside, Washington spent high draft capital on edge rushers. In Montez Sweat, you see a quick first step, deceptive strength, and arms that will win with swims or rips. Additionally, Sweat preys on poor ball security, forcing seven fumbles over his first three seasons, along with twenty-one sacks. This lofty spot hinges on Chase Young returning from injury, showing the NFL what he brought to the table during his rookie season.

2. Philadelphia Eagles

Like the Commanders, the Eagles enjoy a healthy interior rush. Javon Hargrave and Fletcher Cox dominate on the inside, forcing the play wide where the ends will clean up. Now, that isn’t to say that Josh Sweat did not earn those seven-and-a-half sacks in 2021. Sweat’s ability to make tackles forget their footwork and lunge gains him the instant advantage. While Derek Barnett and Brandon Graham may not set the world ablaze, they do what’s asked of them. Although this appears to be true, the key cog in the Philly rush is the newly-signed Haason Reddick. Over the last two seasons, the former Cardinal and Panther tallied 23.5 sacks and forced eight fumbles. Reddick turns the corner and closes with burst and ugly intentions. If Philly makes a run, Reddick needs to notch another ten sacks.

Ep 113: The Patriots And The AFC East
by Full Press Coverage on March 17, 2023 at 2:14 pm

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3. New York Giants

How does a team that didn’t win five games last year sit ahead of a playoff team? For one, the hiring of Wink Martindale as defensive coordinator means one thing: obscene amounts of pressure. During his tenure in Baltimore, Martindale dialed up the heat, leading the league in blitzes and blitz percentage four of the last five seasons. Next, look at the talent, Upfront, Leonard Williams brings a rare mix of athleticism and dexterity for his size. Dexter Lawrence may lack a varied repertoire, he will absorb blockers, allowing his teammates to thrive. Speaking of, Azeez Ojulari, barring injury, should register a double-digit season. Ojulari loves the hand-fighting aspect and the ability to finish the play. Giants fans should be absolutely thrilled with the selection of Kayvon Thibodeaux from Oregon. The former Duck possesses the ability, more importantly, the mental preparedness to wreak havoc in the NFC East. New York’s defense needed to carry an offense that failed to score fifteen points a shameful ten times in 2021.

4. Dallas Cowboys

Granted, the best pass rusher in the NFC East plays for Dallas. Yet, name another rush threat on this defense. Micah Parsons bent the NFL to his will in 2021. With thirteen sacks and three forced fumbles, Parsons gave the Cowboys’ defense teeth. Now, about that other rusher? Randy Gregory left for Denver. DeMarcus Lawrence, over his last three years, posted only fourteen-and-a-half sacks over the past three seasons. Parsons will see doubles this year. Under those circumstances, who steps up? Dorrance Armstrong is the hope. However, he profiles as a situational pass rusher. The Cowboys climb out of fourth if players like Armstrong and rookie Sam Williams provide quality rush reps.

Overview

While the Commanders possess the best pass rush, the back of that defense looks rather unimpressive. The Eagles’ safeties do not inspire faith. The Giants, on the back end, lack gamechangers. On the other hand, the Cowboys boast a playmaking corner but lack a number of rushers outside of Parsons. People will complain. Yet, the NFC East cannot be won by one pass rusher alone.