Top 10 Best Edge Rushers in the NFL Today 2023

These are the top 10 best edge rushers going into week 17. This list is based on overall talent, production so far, and projected production going forward. It does not include players currently injured and expected out for this current week.

#10 – Bradley Chubb

Bradley Chubb’s impressive revival under DC Vic Fangio, alongside Miami LB Andrew Van Ginkel’s standout performance, hints at a potentially fearsome pass rush for Miami when LB Jaelan Phillips returns to full health. Despite not having elite bend or explosiveness, Chubb’s precise, powerful hands and adequate speed make him a significant edge threat.

Bradley Chubb’s (Miami Dolphins) 2023-24 Season Defensive Stats

Bradley Chubb’s Career Defensive Stats

#9 – Josh Allen

With good length and explosive athleticism, Allen effectively utilizes speed-to-power conversion. While his sack production dipped from his rookie year, he has evolved into a more skilled pass rusher. Notably, Allen’s significant progress as a run defender, along with improved sack numbers in 2023, has greatly benefited the Jaguars’ defense, aligning with enhanced performance from their EDGE unit.

Josh Allen’s (Jacksonville Jaguars) 2023-24 Season Defensive Stats

Josh Allen’s Career Defensive Stats

#8 – Trey Hendrickson

Trey Hendrickson’s unconventional appearance, with no gloves, wearing No. 91, and matching uniform sleeves, may defy aesthetics, but his performance as a pure pass rusher is undeniably smooth and impressive. He has proven his pass-rushing ability, even in contrast to the team’s defensive struggles. “Look good, feel good, play good” doesn’t apply to him, as he excels despite his unique style.

Trey Hendrickson’s (Cincinnati Bengals) 2023 Season Defensive Stats

Trey Hendrickson’s Career Defensive Stats

#7 – Danielle Hunter

While college production doesn’t always directly translate to NFL success. Danielle Hunter is proof of that statement. Despite recording only 4.5 sacks in college, he excelled with 12.5 sacks in his age-22 NFL season. Hunter has reemerged as a top-10 conversation-worthy player in 2023, consistently demonstrating high productivity.

Danielle Hunter’s (Minnesota Vikings) 2023 Season Defensive Stats

Danielle Hunter’s Career Defensive Stats

#6 – Khalil Mack

Mack stands out as both a technically skilled and athletically gifted edge rusher in the NFL. Despite a slow start in terms of sacks, he made a remarkable comeback with six sacks in a single game against the Las Vegas Raiders. His league-leading sack total might overstate his pass-rushing prowess, but his elite run-defense skills and consistent pass-rushing production, even on a struggling defense, remain highly impressive.

Khalil Mack’s (Los Angeles Chargers) 2023 Season Defensive Stats

Khalil Mack’s Career Defensive Stats

#5 – Maxx Crosby

Maxx Crosby’s unique style as an arc-rushing specialist makes him one of the most exciting pass rushers to watch in the NFL. His ability to navigate the outside with precision, explosive bursts, and technical prowess sets him apart. Despite being a lower draft pick, Crosby has emerged as one of the top pass rushers due to his unlimited motor. He’s now firmly in the conversation for defensive player of the year.

Maxx Crosby’s (Las Vegas Raiders) 2023 Season Defensive Stats

Maxx Crosby’s Career Defensive Stats

#4 – Nick Bosa

The top-five ranking for the reigning Defensive Player of the Year reflects the incredible talent in this position group. Nick Bosa, who dominated in sacks and pressures, had a straightforward draft evaluation and has continued to shine this season, despite slightly lower sack numbers. This underscores the unpredictability of sack production as Nick Bosa is still a menace up front.

Nick Bosa’s (San Francisco 49ers) 2023 Season Defensive Stats

Nick Bosa’s Career Defensive Stats

#3 – Micah Parsons

While Micah Parsons may be considered the best defensive player in the world, but he faces difficulties winning the Defensive Player of the Year (DPOY) award, which typically goes to the most traditionally productive defender. This highlights the distinction between production and value, similar to the OPOY and league MVP awards often having different recipients. Parsons’ significant -0.43 EPA difference when on vs. off the field in 2022 sets him apart from others on the list, showcasing his impact.

Micah Parsons’ (Dallas Cowboys) 2023 Season Defensive Stats

Micah Parsons’ Career Defensive Stats

#2 – Myles Garrett

The debate for the top pass rusher often centers around Micah Parsons, J.J. Watt, Nick Bosa, and Maxx Crosby, with each having their supporters. Myles Garrett has accumulated the most sacks over the past three seasons, but Watt has the edge when looking back four seasons. Sacks are significant, but style, impressiveness in victories, and quality of sacks matter more than sheer numbers. Garrett’s combination of size, explosiveness, and flexibility defies expectations, proving that being big doesn’t equate to stiffness, and he’s often regarded as a uniquely engineered pass rusher.

Myles Garrett’s (Cleveland Browns) 2023 Season Defensive Stats

Myles Garrett’s Career Defensive Stats

#1 – T.J. Watt

Known for his consistent and unquestionable production, T.J. Watt continues to record historic numbers. While he’s outproduced Myles Garrett in the past, Garrett is closing the gap, with his recent success not solely reliant on pass-rushing ability. Watt has evolved into one of the most reliable run defenders despite not having elite size. He started the season with high-pressure performances and a fortunate streak, making him a potential Defensive Player of the Year candidate.

T.J. Watt’s (Pittsburgh Steelers) 2023 Season Defensive Stats

T.J. Watt’s Career Defensive Stats

Top 10 Best Edge Rushers in the NFL Today 2023-24

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