J.J. Watt, defensive end, Houston Texans
If Watt can find a way to stay healthy, he will go down as one of the most dominant defensive players in the history of the game. Of course, that’s also dependent on him not pulling a Patrick Willis and calling it quits early. By any stretch of the imagination, this former collegiate walk-on is destined for Canton.
Prior to missing all but three games last season with a back injury, Watt put up the best four-year stretch for a defensive player in the modern history of the game. From 2012-15, he recorded 69 sacks, 15 forced fumbles, 10 fumble recoveries and an absurd 41 passes defended.
Any one of those numbers would be elite. Add all of them together, and we’re talking about a talent the NFL has not seen since Lawrence Taylor was in his prime.
Surely, we have to be concerned about Watt returning from back surgery. That could impact his get-off moving forward. But it’s important to note that Watt did play all 16 games in each of his first five seasons in the NFL. If he continues at this clip and remains healthy, Watt is sure-fire first ballot Hall of Famer. Amazing for someone that college teams wouldn’t offer a scholarship to.