2016 NFL Power Rankings: Top 20 Pass Rushers

Nov 22, 2015; Glendale, AZ, USA; Arizona Cardinals linebacker Dwight Freeney (54) sacks Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Andy Dalton (14) at University of Phoenix Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joe Camporeale-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 22, 2015; Glendale, AZ, USA; Arizona Cardinals linebacker Dwight Freeney (54) sacks Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Andy Dalton (14) at University of Phoenix Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joe Camporeale-USA TODAY Sports /
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Nov 12, 2015; East Rutherford, NJ, USA;New York Jets defensive end Muhammad Wilkerson (96) tackles Buffalo Bills quarterback Tyrod Taylor (5) in the second half at MetLife Stadium. The Bills defeated the Jets 22-17 Mandatory Credit: William Hauser-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 12, 2015; East Rutherford, NJ, USA;New York Jets defensive end Muhammad Wilkerson (96) tackles Buffalo Bills quarterback Tyrod Taylor (5) in the second half at MetLife Stadium. The Bills defeated the Jets 22-17 Mandatory Credit: William Hauser-USA TODAY Sports /

#5:  Muhammad Wilkerson

Being such a big man and so good at stopping the run, it’s easy to forget that Muhammad Wilkerson may actually be an even better pass rusher.  It wasn’t until the past three years that the light seemed to go on for him, but when it did the guy has been borderline unstoppable with 28.5 sacks in that span though he missed three games.  It makes one wonder why in the world rumors have persisted that the New York Jets are entertaining thoughts of trading him.

Guys of his physical skill set are rare.  A man that big and strong shouldn’t be able to move with that level of quickness and athleticism.  He had three games last season in which he posted at least two sacks.  That is the sign of a man who cannot and will not be stopped when the motor is running hot.  Time will tell how his broken leg suffered at the end of the year will impact his momentum, but as it stands he belongs in the top five.

Next: #4