I’ve noticed that in the NFL, defensive ends can range in size, strength and speed. Although they are typically tall and well-built, there are exceptions to the rule.Whether it’s an undersized, speedy player or a hulking defensive tackle, these players often fit the mold of different teams’ defensive schemes.
It’s no surprise that the bigger the defensive end, the more intimidating and intimidating he’s likely to be on the field. When you have someone standing 6’5″ and weighing close to 300 pounds, you know they’re going to command the respecto of their opponents. It makes it all the more difficult to try and run the ball past them when they come with strength and speed.
But, not all defensive ends have to be that size. There have been plenty of talented pass rushers and run stoppers who weren’t that big, but that didn’t stop them from making big plays and earning the respect of their opponents. Height, weight, and size don’t always have to be the biggest asset of a defensive end.
At the same time, however, there are advantages to being big for defensive ends in the NFL. For instance, a bigger defensive end is going to have the physical presence of ousting a blocker from the line of scrimmage, and that can open up a lane for the pass rusher. They can also absorb more contact from blockers, which can make it difficult for opposing teams to run the ball against them.
From my experience, a big defensive end is one of the most important players on a defensive team. He may not always be the tallest or the widest, but he should always have the strength and power to take on a blocker. He should also be able to move quickly and cover a lot of ground, making it difficult for ball carriers to get past him.
I understand, it’s hard to find the perfect defensive end who is both tall and powerful. That’s why teams must do their research and look for guys that have the strength, power, and agility to really excel at their position. It’s all about finding the complete package.
For the second article I would like to begin by addressing the advantage of having a tall and powerful defensive end. A tall and powerful defensive end is going to be great at getting off the line quickly and remaining stout against the run. He may not be the fastest or the quickest, but since he can keep blockers away from the ball carrier, he will be successful. For those who are able to keep up with the speed of the game and offer pressure on the quarterback, this is a great advantage over smaller players.
Moreover, height and power are two big advantages when it comes to being an effective defensive end. Whenever there is a pass play called, heights come into play. Tall ends are able to occupy more space on the line of scrimmage and are able to knock the ball down more often than a shorter end. In addition, height provides a defensive end with a great platform to push against opposing blockers. Lastly, height gives them an advantage when it comes to pushing the pocket back and getting to the quarterback.
However, despite the advantages of height and power, there is more to being an effective defensive end than those two traits. Fundamentals are just as important, if not more so, than size. Things like hand placement and timing are just as important as speed and strength. Without good technique, size does not mean much.
The third article will begin by talking about the importance of technique when it comes to being an effective defensive end. As I’ve said before, just having height and power is not enough. Technique is crucial and it happens to be an area where smaller defensive ends can excel. By being quicker and more agile, a smaller defensive end can win the one-on-one battle on the line of scrimmage.
Good technique starts with hand placement, finding the right way to hit and lock up a blockers arms. Additionally, learning how to stay low when rushing the quarterback is something that needs to be mastered in order to be an effective defensive end. A defensive end needs to be able to get off the line quickly and stay low in order to prevent the blocker from getting underneath and driving them backwards.
Moreover, another fundamental that needs to be mastered is timing. Great defensive ends need to be able to anticipate when a play is about to happen and get into position quickly. Since they cannot depend on their size, they need to use their speed and knowledge of the game to consistently beat their opponent to the spot and make a play.
Lastly, fundamental technique is important because it increases the effectiveness of the physical gifts an individual possesses. For example, a defensive end might have good size, but if they do not use proper technique, they are not going to be able to use that size and strength the way they should. Additionally, great technique increases the likelihood of making plays, as opposed to relying on pure speed and athleticism.
The fourth article will address how important size is when it comes to defensive ends in the NFL. While it is true that size is not always the most crucial aspect of the job, it still matters a great deal and is a big part of what makes a defensive end successful.
This is because tall defensive ends have the advantage of being able to stay low and occupy more line of scrimmage. Being able to occupy the line of scrimmage at all times makes it difficult for there to be running lanes and pass lanes that an offense can take advantage of.
Additionally, size also helps when it comes to pushing back blockers and creating an easier path for pass rushers to get after the quarterback. Bigger defensive ends, when used properly, can push back the pocket and open up lanes for pass rushers to get to the quarterback.
Size also helps with the intimidation factor. A big defensive end on the field is intimidating to opposing offenses, and can cause levels of hesitation. How often do quarterbacks see a 6’5” 300 pound player coming at them ready to wreak havoc? Not often, and that’s why intimidation is so important for defensive ends.
Lastly, size helps with ball carriers, as it gives defensive ends the physical presence to tackle the ball carrier and prevent them from getting to the second and third level of the defense. It is much easier for a tall defensive end to stop the ball carrier and keep them from gaining more yards.
In conclusion, size is important when it comes to defensive ends because it can provide a great advantage in terms of preventing running lanes and pushing back blockers. On top of that, size also brings an intimidation factor and helps defensive ends throw ball carriers for a loss. Although it isn’t the only aspect of the job, size can certainly help a defensive end become more effective.