10 most underrated defensive players heading into 2020

EAST RUTHERFORD, NEW JERSEY - NOVEMBER 24: Defensive End Maxx Crosby #98 of the Oakland Raiders rushes the Quarterback against the New York Jets in the first half in the rain at MetLife Stadium on November 24, 2019 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. (Photo by Al Pereira/Getty Images). /

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Montez Sweat, Washington Redskins. (Photo by Jacob Kupferman/Getty Images) /

6. Montez Sweat

Redskins fans are understandably excited about what Chase Young can bring to their defense this season, but that doesn’t mean they should forget about Sweat. There’s a very real possibility that he will be Washington’s top sack artist in 2020.

The former Mississippi State star should thrive playing for Ron Rivera. He’s a head coach who has never been afraid to turn his edge rushers loose. Sweat has the speed to torment opposing tackles when he’s allowed to focus solely on rushing the passer.

It’s not as if Sweat wasn’t effective as a rookie. He gave his team seven sacks despite limited opportunities due to the team’s lack of competitiveness. If Washington can produce more obvious passing downs in 2020 it’s easy to see how his sack total could rise.

The real challenge for Sweat in year two will be to prove to Rivera and his staff that he can be a legitimate three-down player. His work setting the edge against the run does require work. That doesn’t change the fact that he’s already a dynamic pass rusher. Players of his ilk hold a ton of value around the league.

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