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ESPN conducted a comprehensive poll involving executives, players, and coaches to determine the best Defensive Tackles in the NFL.
The survey, part of ESPN’s 2023 NFL season preview, was carried out by Jeremy Fowler and involved league executives, coaches, scouts, and players who contributed to ranking the top 10 players at each of the 11 different positions, spanning from quarterback to cornerback and all positions in between.
Rankings For: Off-the-ball Linebackers, Defensive Tackles, Edge Rushers, Cornerbacks, Safeties, Tight Ends, Running Backs, Offensive Tackles, Guards/Centers, Quarterbacks, Wide Receivers
Defensive tackles play a crucial role in disrupting opposing offenses, possessing the versatility to rush the passer, absorb double teams, and anchor the run defense.
Given the abundance of talent in this position, the poll generated significant interest among voters, resulting in a number of notable players finding themselves in the honorable mention category.
Here is the esteemed list of the top 10 defensive tackles in the NFL, as determined by the poll:
- Aaron Donald – Los Angeles Rams
- Chris Jones – Kansas City Chiefs
- Jeffery Simmons – Tennessee Titans
- Quinnen Williams – New York Jets
- Javon Hargrave – San Francisco 49ers
- Dexter Lawrence – New York Giants
- DeForest Buckner – Indianapolis Colts
- Daron Payne – Washington Commanders
- Cam Heyward – Pittsburgh Steelers
- Jonathan Allen – Washington Commanders
In addition to the top 10, several linebackers received honorable mentions for their exceptional performances:
- Christian Wilkins – Miami Dolphins
- Vita Vea – Tampa Bay Buccaneers
- Kenny Clark – Green Bay Packers
- Derrick Brown – Carolina Panthers
- Leonard Williams – New York Giants
Furthermore, several players received votes and were recognized for their skills and potential impact:
- Grady Jarrett – Atlanta Falcons
- Arik Armstead – San Francisco 49ers
- DJ Reader – Cincinnati Bengals
- Dre’Mont Jones – Seattle Seahawks
- Dalvin Tomlinson – Cleveland Browns
- Ed Oliver – Buffalo Bills
- Grover Stewart – Indianapolis Colts
With such an impressive pool of talent at the defensive tackle position, the 2023 NFL season promises to showcase intense competition and extraordinary performances from these top-ranked players.