All articles tagged with #pass rushers
The upcoming Packers-Lions game features key defensive players Micah Parsons and Aidan Hutchinson, both of whom are expected to impact the game significantly. Parsons' participation is uncertain due to injury, but he remains a high-impact player, while Hutchinson returns from injury to bolster the Lions' defense. The matchup is highly anticipated with star pass rushers on both sides.
The Denver Broncos are delaying extending outside linebacker Nik Bonitto's contract, influenced by recent high-profile deals for other pass rushers like Trey Hendrickson and Micah Parsons, which could raise Bonitto's market value. Despite some concerns about his run defense and his role on a crowded defense, Bonitto is expected to receive a significant raise, and negotiations are likely to conclude successfully.
Micah Parsons praises Buccaneers tackle Tristan Wirfs for his versatility and excellence, highlighting his high ranking in the NFL Top 100 Players of 2025 and his impact on the field, while noting Wirfs's expected absence due to injury.
The article provides an overview of the Carolina Panthers' training camp, highlighting the light practice days, returning players like Derrick Brown, a deep wide receiver group with many contenders, promising pass-rushing rookies, a plentiful offensive line, and a cautious approach to linebacker signings, emphasizing roster versatility and development.
The Detroit Lions acquired veteran pass rusher Za'Darius Smith from the Cleveland Browns at the NFL trade deadline, addressing their need for defensive line reinforcements after losing several key players to injuries. Head coach Dan Campbell emphasized the difficulty of finding quality pass rushers mid-season, highlighting Smith's experience and ability to enhance both the run defense and pass rush. Smith, who has 65 career sacks, is expected to play a significant role in the Lions' defense as they prepare for a playoff push.
Chicago Bears head coach Matt Eberflus is keen on bolstering the team's pass rush and sees it as crucial to have a 1-2 punch alongside Montez Sweat. Eberflus emphasized the importance of adding more oomph to their pass rush and mentioned that they are open to considering both inside and outside pass rushers. The team's desire for pass rush help may influence their decision in the upcoming NFL draft, where they hold the ninth overall pick.
Josh Sweat has agreed to a restructured contract with the Philadelphia Eagles, ensuring his presence for the upcoming season. The restructured deal guarantees him $10 million in 2024 with potential incentives that could raise the total value to $13 million. This move resolves the uncertainty surrounding Sweat's future with the team, as he was entering the final year of his contract. The Eagles' significant investment in pass rushers, including Bryce Huff, raises questions about the future of Haason Reddick, who also faces a contract year with a substantial cap hit. Despite a challenging 2022 season, the Eagles are optimistic that Sweat, with his impressive track record, will regain his form under the new defensive staff.
Free agent linebacker Shaquil Barrett has signed a one-year deal with the Miami Dolphins worth up to $9 million after being released by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. The Dolphins, in need of pass rushers due to injuries, see Barrett as a key addition to their defense. Barrett, a two-time Pro Bowl selection, brings experience and talent to the team, having recorded 59 career sacks in nine seasons. His signing comes after the tragic loss of his daughter in 2023, and he looks to make an impact with the Dolphins in the upcoming season.
Micah Parsons, in response to T.J. Watt narrowly missing out on the Defensive Player of the Year Award, claims that Watt is not a top-five pass rusher, citing stats such as pass rush win rates and double team rates. However, Parsons' argument overlooks many of Watt's dominant statistical achievements. Despite emphasizing the importance of stats, Parsons' list of top-five pass rushers does not align with the measurable stats that Watt tends to dominate.
In a new 2-round mock draft, the Chicago Bears are projected to select USC quarterback Caleb Williams at No. 1, while the Washington Commanders are expected to pick North Carolina quarterback Drake Maye at No. 2. Additionally, the Commanders are predicted to replenish their pass rush by selecting Alabama defensive end Chris Braswell at No. 36 and Penn State defensive end Chop Robinson at No. 40, following a trade that sent defensive end Montez Sweat to the Bears.
The Miami Dolphins have signed Justin Houston, Bruce Irvin, and Malik Reed to bolster their pass rush ahead of their playoff game against the Kansas City Chiefs, with all four of their top edge rushers injured. Houston, a four-time Pro Bowler, joins the Dolphins after a stint with the Panthers, while Irvin and Reed bring their experience to the team as well.
The San Francisco 49ers expressed interest in trading for Carolina Panthers outside linebacker Brian Burns before acquiring Chase Young, but the Panthers shut down any trade discussions. Burns, who is in the final year of his rookie contract, has been a standout player with five sacks, 10 quarterback hits, and eight tackles for loss this season. Despite missing out on Burns, the 49ers strengthened their defensive line with the addition of Young and reigning Defensive Player of the Year Nick Bosa.
With the NFL trade deadline approaching, the Jacksonville Jaguars are rumored to be targeting pass rushers to bolster their defense. Players like Danielle Hunter, Chase Young, Montez Sweat, Brian Burns, and Jalen Mills have been mentioned as potential trade options. The Jaguars have struggled in the pass-rush department this season and adding a capable edge rusher could greatly improve their defense.
Minnesota Vikings outside linebacker Marcus Davenport is expected to be out for four weeks due to a high ankle sprain, potentially leading to him being placed on injured reserve. The Vikings may look to sign another pass rusher to fill the void, with three-time Pro Bowler Frank Clark being a potential option after his recent release from the Denver Broncos. The decision will depend on the cost of signing Clark.
A preliminary ranking of the top 50 NFL free agents in 2024 includes players like Tee Higgins, Nick Bosa, Quinnen Williams, Christian Wilkins, and Danielle Hunter. The list takes into account factors such as positional value, market dynamics, and the potential impact of the 2023 season.