NFL games are one of the most watched football tournaments worldwide due to several reasons. First, the rivalries. Second, the nail-biting events and passionate players. Third, the defense!

An NFL game is almost entirely incomplete without a good defensive player. They act as a power source for the team and can bring heat to the field.

Not just the field, they are also important for sportsbooks, as their performance has the potential to change the NFL week 12 odds. So, who are the top 5 greatest NFL defensive players of all time? Here’s the list:

Reggie White

Speaking of the best defensive players, we cannot forget about the legendary Reggie White. His big and strong structure with fast pace made him a player who could move in any direction. 

He was famous for his hump move, which he often used to get off sack quarterbacks and blockers. His speed has helped him make several plays on quarterbacks. White was an iconic player in the NFL who never slowed down easily. 

Aaron Donald

Aaron Donald plays for the Los Angeles Rams, where he was chosen in the first round of the 2014 NFL Draft. Donald has bagged AP Defensive Player of the Year (thrice) and has been selected seven times for Pro Bowl. With his 93 quarterback hits and 46.5 sacks, he is surely the best defensive player in NFL games. 

Wondering about the NFL Draft 2021? Check out who came after from pro football lineage.  

Lawrence Taylor

Lawrence Taylor was an absolute maniac on the ground who dealt with opponents fantastically. Although he was lined up as nose tackle in UNC at times, Taylor still managed to pull it off by handling the best offensive players on the opposite end. He may not have a heavy structure, but his strength was adequate to deal with 300+ pound guards easily. 

Deion Sanders

Whether it’s returning punts, kicking for TDs, or rushing through touchdowns, Deion Sanders is another outstanding defensive player to rule the NFL. Sanders had the potential to shut down a complete portion of the field through his defense. He has played for 14 years for five teams and has bagged eight Pro Bowl and All-Pro honors. 

Dick Butkus

Dick Butkus played as a linebacker for the Chicago Bears back in the 1960s. As a defense, he was known for his speed and agility, which helped him handle from sideline to sideline. His strength made him face the defense efficiently. 

Butkus has been listed as “The Most Feared Man in the Game” by Sports Illustrated. He was also given the title of “Most Feared Tackler in League History” by NFL.com.

So, that’s all! Does this list have your favorite defensive NFL player? If not, then which player do you think should be added to the list?