Game-changing defensive players are an absolute thrill. They can intercept a pass and return it 83 yards for a touchdown, sack the quarterback, force a fumble, recover it, and run 25 yards to secure excellent field position. Even a linebacker who restricts the opponent’s running back to a mere 38 yards on 20 carries can make a huge impact. The best defensive players are often the most transformative ones.
The following is a compilation of the top game-changing defensive players in the history of the National Football League. Given the limited nature of a list like this, not all remarkable players like Bob Lilly, Merlin Olsen, Rod Woodson, and Mike Singletary cut.
H2 Best NFL Players in Defensive Positions
H3 #1 Deacon Jones
Deacon Jones, the former defensive end for the Rams, claimed the term “sack” for himself and allegedly accumulated a stunning 194.5 sacks throughout his career. This included an unofficial count of 26 sacks in 1967 and an additional 24 sacks in 1968.
H3 #2 Deion Sanders
Sanders showcased a blend of confidence, talent, and determination every time he took the field. Although he wasn’t consistently tested by opposing quarterbacks, he managed to accumulate an impressive 53 interceptions throughout his career. Even at the age of 38, in his final season, Sanders managed to secure two interceptions. It’s worth noting that these interception numbers were influenced by a three-year retirement from 2001 to 2003. During his sole season with the 49ers in 1994, Sanders intercepted six passes, three of which he returned for touchdowns. Additionally, it’s worth highlighting that Sanders enjoyed a successful Major League Baseball career, participating in 641 games for four teams and leading the league in triples in 1992.
If you’re inspired to watch their games when you hear about the greatest NFL players, you’re like me. You can watch NFL games online from any region of the world, but only if you use a VPN. To watch beIN Sports, use VeePN and change your region to USA. A VPN can also provide online security, but you can also use it to save on online subscriptions. Moreover, VeePN offers a free trial period.
H3 #3 Lawrence Taylor
Taylor, the NFL’s unmatched defensive player in history, single-handedly disrupted offenses like no other. Redskins head coach Joe Gibbs devised the two-tight end offense and the h-back position to counter Taylor’s dominance. In addition, Taylor pioneered the concept of pass-rushing linebackers and the sack fumble.
Undoubtedly, Taylor’s 1986 season stands as the epitome of defensive greatness in NFL history. With a record-breaking 20.5 sacks, he rightfully earned the title of the league’s Most Valuable Player. Powered by Taylor’s brilliance, the Giants secured a Super Bowl title, the first of his remarkable two championships.
H3 #4 Mean Joe Greene
Mean Joe Greene, a pivotal defensive player, played a significant role in one of the league’s finest dynasties. He aided the Steelers in clinching four Super Bowl victories within six seasons. In a crucial game versus the Houston Oilers in 1972, Greene exhibited exceptional performance, achieving five sacks, forcing and recovering a fumble, and blocking a field goal. His disruptive tactic involved strategically positioning himself between the guard and center, allowing him to deter the offensive line and draw the attention of two to three blockers. Known for his relentless intensity and unmatched competitiveness, Greene appeared in 181 out of 190 possible regular season games throughout his remarkable career.
H3 #5 Ronnie Lott
As a safety, Lott initially started his career as one of the hardest-hitting cornerbacks, leaving a lasting impression on league executives. He spent his first five pro seasons as a cornerback before transitioning to safety. In 1986, he led the league in interceptions with 10 and achieved at least four interceptions in a season nine times. In his 20 playoff games, Lott made nine interceptions and scored two touchdowns.
By the way, if you like to watch NFL games in sports bars, be sure to think about your protection. Public networks are a very risky and dangerous place. You can install the application on your smartphone and VPN extension in your browser. If you are interested in a VPN for Edge, find the extension now here and stay protected. The extension will be useful to you in other places, for example, on public transport or at home to unblock streaming platforms.
H3 #6 Devin Hester
Hall of Fame coach Tony Dungy became well-known for admitting, “Yes, I decided to kick off to Devin Hester in a Super Bowl,” owning up to the mistake after witnessing a touchdown return in the opening of Super Bowl XLI. Hester showcased his exceptional talent throughout his career, leading the league in punt-return average twice, punt-return touchdowns three times, and sharing the top spot in kickoff-return touchdowns twice. He achieved at least one return touchdown in six seasons. Given the current trends in the kicking game, it is unlikely that anyone will be able to replicate Hester’s remarkable ability to convert touches into scores.
H3 #7 Night Train Lane
Lane’s interception ability and bone-crushing hits place him in the same league as Ronnie Lott. Throughout his 14-season career, Lane intercepted an impressive 68 passes for 1,207 yards and scored five touchdowns. Notably, Lane holds the record for the most interceptions in a single season with 14, achieved during a 12-game season in his rookie year in 1952.
Playing for the Los Angeles Rams, Chicago Cardinals, and Detroit Lions, Lane earned seven Pro Bowl selections. He gained a reputation as one of the most feared hitters in the game, often targeting opponents’ necks, utilizing legal moves of the 1950s and 1960s.
H2 Conclusion
NFL history boasts a multitude of outstanding defensive players who have made their mark with remarkable talent and incredible achievements. From Sanders’ electrifying plays to Lane’s hard-hitting hits, these players have inspired generations of fans and continue to be celebrated as legends in the sport. As the NFL continues to evolve, it will undoubtedly witness more exceptional talents rise to greatness and join this esteemed club.
