Power ranking the top 10 NFL defensive tackles

There is almost nothing more valuable to an NFL defense than interior pressure. Not only are disruptive defensive tackles a rare commodity, they can ruin an offense’s day single-handedly, so let’s take a look at the best defensive tackles in the NFL. All stats provided by Pro Football Reference unless otherwise stated.

Nnamdi (formerly Justin) Madubuike is a force in the middle of the Ravens defense, with 13 sacks in 2023 alongide 2 forced fumbles. This year, he has been less productive as the Ravens have taken some time to adjust following Mike Macdonald’s departure. Still, he’s one of the best players on what will be one of the best defenses in the NFL.

Simmons has been one of the better defensive tackles in the NFL for some time, he has just never been able to consistently find himself amongst the elites. Jeremy Fowler for ESPN recently ranked Simmons as the fourth best at his position, which we feel is a little high, but it isn’t too far-fetched.

Want to see more like this? Follow us here for daily sports news, profiles and analysis!

Wilkins had a breakout year in 2023, recording 65 tackles, nine sacks, and a forced fumble in Vic Fangio’s system. The former Dolphin earned himself a four-year, $110 million contract with the Las Vegas Raiders and has already been impactful this season.

Buckner has been a force in the middle of the Colts defensive line for years, racking up 62.5 sacks during his career. This year has been no different, with two sacks in the two games he’s played so far.

At 35, Heyward may not be the unstoppable force he once was, but his play is still a significant reason behind the Steelers having one of, if no the best defense in football in 2024. It’s not out of the question Heyward will have some Hall of Fame buzz when he retires.

Brown has never put up the gaudy numbers of others on this list, however, there is no denying his game-wrecking ability when he's on the field. One veteran NFL scout told ESPN, “When you play him and watch him, he's really good. Wouldn't surprise me if he has more sacks in the future. Carolina is always losing in games, so teams don't throw the ball as much on them late.”

This is part reality, part projection, as Carter needs to consistently string elite performances together for this ranking to be justified. His game against the Saints in week three showcased how good he can be, as the former Georgia player was unblockable as he shut down Derek Carr and Alvin Kamara almost by himself.

Williams is a remarkable player, recording 12 sacks in 2022 and another 5.5 in 2023. Even when he’s not putting up numbers, he is in the backfield blowing up run plays or pressurizing the QB. The Jets have an elite defense, and Williams is a huge part of that.

Pro Football Focus has this remarkable statistic about Lawrence, “Lawrence has 81 total pressures over the past two seasons when lined up as a nose tackle. No other player has more than 16.” That’s ridiculous considering most nose tackles are essentially used as space-fillers, Lawrence has made the position his own and is changing the game.

Jones has a pass-rush win rate of 19.6% per ESPN, which puts him way out in front of the chasing pack as a DT. The Chiefs have been the best team in football for some time, and Jones’ play is a huge part of that. He’s a stud and now Aaron Donald has retired, the best defensive tackle in football.

Want to see more like this? Follow us here for daily sports news, profiles and analysis!