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30 greatest NFL defensive players of all-time

By Daniel Tran

Nov 3, 2014; East Rutherford, NJ, USA; New York Giants former players Lawrence Taylor and Harry Carson listen to Michael Strahan (left) speak to fans after receiving his NFL Hall of Fame ring during half time ceremony at MetLife Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Noah K. Murray-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 3, 2014; East Rutherford, NJ, USA; New York Giants former players Lawrence Taylor and Harry Carson listen to Michael Strahan (left) speak to fans after receiving his NFL Hall of Fame ring during half time ceremony at MetLife Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Noah K. Murray-USA TODAY Sports /
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20. Derrick Thomas, Linebacker

When Lawrence Taylor’s career was beginning to wind down, a lot of NFL fans were wondering who was going to be the next pass rushing star in the League. Enter Derrick Thomas.

In the first round of the 1989 NFL Draft, the Kansas City Chiefs drafted Derrick Thomas. Thomas’ impact was felt immediately.

Using incredible explosiveness and speed, Thomas recorded 10 sacks, three forced fumbles, and a Pro Bowl selection during his rook campaign. The next season, Thomas exploded for 20 sacks and 6 forced fumbles and established himself as the next big thing in terms of pass rushing in the NFL.

Though his career was tragically cut short by complications resulting from an automobile accident, Thomas still accumulated 126.5 sacks and recorded 41 forced fumbles in his 11-year career. He was also selected to nine Pro Bowls and six All-Pro teams.

Thomas was elected to the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2009.

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