What is an NFL Edge Defender?
Is it a traditional defensive end? Is it an outside linebacker? The answer doesn’t really matter, as a good edge defender is someone who lines up outside the formation, is stout against the run, and is effective as a pass rusher. And, especially in today’s NFL, they must set a strong edge and stay disciplined against athletic quarterbacks.
NFL EDGE Rankings
With free agency and the 2024 NFL Draft both in the rearview mirror, we’ve updated our NFL EDGE rankings. Here are some of the top edge defenders in the league:
- Micah Parsons, Dallas Cowboys
- T.J. Watt, Pittsburgh Steelers
- Myles Garrett, Cleveland Browns
- Maxx Crosby, Las Vegas Raiders
- Nick Bosa, San Francisco 49ers
- Aidan Hutchinson, Detroit Lions
- Trey Hendrickson, Cincinnati Bengals
- Josh Allen, Jacksonville Jaguars
- Matthew Judon, New England Patriots
- Khalil Mack, Los Angeles Chargers
And here are a few notable rookies from the 2024 NFL Draft who could make an impact:
- Haason Reddick, New York Jets
- Jonathan Greenard, Minnesota Vikings
- Samson Ebukam, Indianapolis Colts
- Joey Bosa, Los Angeles Chargers
- Montez Sweat, Chicago Bears
1) Micah Parsons, Dallas Cowboys
Micah Parsons is one of those generational talents who, from year to year, might not have the top stats or win the top awards at his position. Parsons’ career-high 14 sacks were tied for the seventh-most in football last season. However, he posted the league’s highest pass-rush win rate despite facing the highest percentage of double teams.
2) T.J. Watt, Pittsburgh Steelers
Watt’s production is too impressive. He led the NFL in sacks in three of the last four seasons, including a 19-sack campaign in 2023. Watt has 96.5 sacks in seven seasons, good for an average of 13.8. That’s ridiculous.
3) Myles Garrett, Cleveland Browns
Garrett does everything. He defends the run at a high level and is among the NFL’s best pass rushers. If you’re into Pro Football Focus rankings, which should be taken with a grain of salt, Garrett was PFF’s highest-graded EDGE in each of the last three seasons.
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