2013 NFL Predictions: Top 5 Defensive Ends – Watt, Peppers, J. Smith the Best NFL DE’s

2013 NFL Predictions: Top 5 Defensive Ends – Watt, Peppers, J. Smith the Best NFL DE’s: With NFL offenses becoming more and more pass oriented, defenses have had to adjust. While several strategies exist for trying to slow down opposing passing attacks, the simplest and most effective method remains getting pressure on the quarterback. Even the best QBs in the game struggle when they don’t have the proper time to throw the ball. As a result, pass-rushers are in high demand, and players that can provide consistent pressure from the defensive end spot are especially valuable because it allows linebackers to remain in coverage, and it is no coincidence that the defending Defensive Player of the Year happens to be a defensive end. With that in mind, here is a closer look at the top defensive ends in the NFL heading into the 2013 season.

1.      J.J. Watt, Houston Texans

He won the Defensive Player of the Year Award in just his second season in the NFL, and Watt can impact the game in a variety of ways. Last year, he led the NFL with 20.5 sacks, and he also added 81 tackles, including 24 for loss. Even when he wasn’t blowing up plays in the backfield, Watt still caused issues by knocking down 16 passes. Those numbers are impressive for a defensive end, and they are incredible when you consider that Houston uses a 3-4 base. He has the motor, the strength and the skills to continue to be a star for years to come.

2.      Julius Peppers, Chicago Bears

For anyone thought that Peppers’ days as a dominant pass-rusher were over when he arrived in Chicago, his back-to-back 11-plus sack seasons say otherwise. He is still one of the most athletic players at the position, and with his freakish wingspan, Peppers always knocks down a few passes and forces a few fumbles when he isn’t busy sacking opposing quarterbacks. He has 111.5 sacks since entering the league in 2002, and Peppers isn’t done adding to that total.

3.      Justin Smith, San Francisco 49ers

Smith is one of the premier all-around playmakers at the defensive end spot. Thanks in large part to his relentless motor and top-level strength, he is makes a ton of solo tackles despite playing mainly in a 3-4 base. Not to mention the fact that he constantly engages multiple blockers, opening lanes for San Francisco’s elite group of linebackers. In fact, Aldon Smith didn’t manage a single sack last year while Smith was sidelined with an injury but had 19.5 when Smith was on the field. Whether he is making life easier for his teammates or making plays himself, Smith is the total package at defensive end.

4.      Jason Pierre-Paul, New York Giants

Blessed with a rare combination of size, speed and athleticism, Pierre-Paul had a monster 2011 campaign, finishing with 86 tackles and 16.5 sacks. Last year, he still managed 66 tackles, but with defenses focusing more on him, he was limited to just 6.5sacks. Pierre-Paul is probably the most athletically gifted player at the defensive end spot, but what separates the good players from the great players is their ability to remain productive despite facing constant double teams. Pierre-Paul will have to prove he can do just that in 2013.

5.      Jared Allen, Minnesota Vikings

While he may not have the speed and range to make as much of an impact against opposing ground games as some of the other top defensive ends, Allen is as good as they get when it comes to rushing the passer. He has 117.0 in nine seasons in the NFL, and he has managed at least 11.0 sacks in six straight years. Allen is one of the strongest players at the position, and he has an extensive list pass-rushing moves. With 34.0 sacks in the past two years alone, he isn’t slowing down one bit.

Check the odds to win 2014 Super Bowl XLVIII plus daily NFL vegas odds and lines updated daily throughout the year at NSAwins.com!

Need Expert Winning NFL Predictions and Picks? Be sure to check out NSAwins.com’s award-winning NFL Football Season Picks Packages for expert winners against the vegas spreads and totals in NFL Football this season including 2013 NFL Football Picks and Predictions to beat the vegas point spreads and totals!