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By Anne Erickson
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ESPN's annual NFL rankings are always good for a few arguments, and frankly, that's half the fun.
This year's list of edge rushers gets most of it right. There isn't much to complain about when Myles Garrett sits comfortably at No. 1 because, at this point, what exactly is the case against him? There isn't one. So, I like that pick for No. 1.
Garrett has turned impossible expectations into the very possible. Twenty-three sacks. Thirty-three tackles for loss. Offensive coordinators lose sleep over players like Garrett.
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Let's dig deeper into ESPN's ranking, released on Wednesday, July 8, ahead of the new season. They have Garrett at No. 1, which makes sense, but what about the rest?
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Micah Parsons of the Green Bay Packers belongs right behind him, and he's No. 2 on the tally. Even with the ACL injury hanging over the conversation, his power still jumps off the screen. He's the kind of defender who changes the feel of the play before the ball is even snapped. That's a different level of respect.
After that, though, I'd shuffle the order just a bit.
Maxx Crosby deserves to be a spot higher. He's No. 4, but I'd put him at No. 3. Nobody plays harder, but his injury and failing the Ravens' physical likely made him lower on their list. Still, he's a legend and should be around No. 3.
I'd also bump Aidan Hutchinson up a notch. He's No. 5, and I'd place him at No. 4. The production speaks for itself, but it's the way he gets there that stands out. His hands are polished, his power keeps tackles guessing and his motor never seems to have an off switch. He's also held up the Lions' defense without much help. Detroit asks a lot from him, and he answers almost every week without much fanfare.
Will Anderson Jr. falls at No. 3 on the tally. He absolutely belongs in this conversation, and his ceiling still feels ridiculous. But if we're talking right now, Crosby and Hutchinson have earned just a little more love, so I'd put Anderson at No. 5.
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Check out ESPN's full tally of the best edge rushers in the league here.
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