As rule changes have placed a premium on the offensive side of the football, defensive players have had to adapt in order to be successful in today’s NFL. The following players are the best Defensive athletes in the league and should be considered for the Defensive Player of the Year award.
J.J. Watt-Just before the start of the season Watt signed a six year contract extension worth $100 million, he would go on to prove that he deserved every single penny. Watt’s presence helped the Texans squeak out nine wins after finishing 2013 with only two. He would finish the season with 78 tackles, 20.5 sacks, four forced fumbles, five fumble recoveries, an interception, and 2 defensive touchdowns (he also had three offensive touchdowns but that’s another conversation). His 20.5 sacks accounted for fifty four percent of the Texans sacks this season.
Justin Houston-Houston did his best Michael Strahan impression as he played himself into his third straight Pro Bowl selection this season. Houston was terrific against the run and the pass as he dominated opposing offenses. He finished the season with 47 tackles, 22 sacks, and three forced fumbles. Aside from winning the NFL’s sack title Houston was awarded the Deacon Jones award and set the Kansas City single season sack record.
Richard ShermanWhen he is on the field Sherman makes it possible for his team to do so much more strategically. This never more evident than in week one when the Packers played Seattle and didn’t throw the ball to his side of the field the entire game. He finished the season with 57 tackles, eight pass defenses, four interceptions, and a forced fumble. Sherman’s play is one of the main reasons Seattle has been so dominant down the stretch. Sherman earned player of the week honors in week thirteen on Thanksgiving for his two interception performance against San Francisco.
Darrelle Revis-After getting off to a slow start things on Revis island are picking up for the Patriots’ star as he has helped lock down the secondary. Due to his early season struggle Revis’ ability came into question, however he would put doubters to bed by locking down his half of the field for the Patriots’ defense. Revis island would finish the season with 47 tackles, 14 pass defenses, 2 interceptions, and a fumble recovery. As the Patriots continue in the playoffs look for Revis’ continued impact on the field.
Gerald McCoy-Despite playing on a struggling team and for his third head coach in five seasons, McCoy was dominant all season. His strong play and leadership earned him a seven year contract extension worth $98 million, the largest contract for a defensive tackle in league history. He recorded 35 tackles, 8.5 sacks, a forced fumble, and a trip to the Pro Bowl. All of these things are even more impressive considering he missed the final two games of the season due to injury.
With his total domination on the field this season its hard to see anyone edging out Watt for the award. His case for defensive player of the year is so complete he is in contention for MVP as well. Justin Houston might have the best chance to get by Watt considering his crazy sack total.
