NFL analyst Byron Jones has released his much-anticipated 2025 Top 25 Edge Rushers, spotlighting the most dominant and disruptive pass rushers in today’s game. From seasoned veterans to rising stars, this year’s list reflects the shifting dynamics of NFL defenses and highlights the critical role edge rushers play in pressuring quarterbacks and anchoring front sevens.
Top 5 Edge Rushers of 2025
- Myles Garrett – Cleveland Browns Garrett retains the top spot with his unmatched combination of strength, speed, and technique. He continues to be the engine behind Cleveland’s defensive success.
- Micah Parsons – Dallas Cowboys Versatile and relentless, Parsons remains one of the most feared defenders in the NFL, capable of rushing from anywhere on the field.
- T.J. Watt – Pittsburgh Steelers The former Defensive Player of the Year still produces at an elite level, leading the Steelers with consistent sack production and game-changing plays.
- Maxx Crosby – Las Vegas Raiders Crosby’s motor and leadership make him the cornerstone of the Raiders’ defense. His presence off the edge has only grown more dominant with each season.
- Aidan Hutchinson – Detroit Lions The former No. 2 overall pick has blossomed into a premier pass rusher, helping the Lions’ defense become a force in the NFC.
Rising Stars and Breakthrough Performers
- Jared Verse (No. 7, LA Rams) and Will Anderson Jr. (No. 8, Houston Texans) represent the new wave of edge defenders taking over the league with explosiveness and poise well beyond their years.
- Josh Hines-Allen (No. 9, Jacksonville Jaguars) is a breakout name in 2025, climbing into the Top 10 with an impressive mix of size and speed.
- Andrew Van Ginkel (No. 12, Minnesota Vikings) and Jonathan Greenard (No. 16, Vikings) headline Minnesota’s revamped pass-rush unit after strong seasons in new roles.
Veteran Impact and Defensive Cornerstones
- Khalil Mack (No. 11, LA Chargers) remains a force well into his 30s, proving that experience and savvy still matter on the edge.
- Brian Burns (No. 14, NY Giants) and Rashan Gary (No. 13, Green Bay Packers) anchor their respective fronts, bringing consistent pressure and athleticism.
Late-Round Surprises and Young Guns
- Nik Bonitto (No. 17, Denver Broncos) and Greg Rosseau (No. 20, Buffalo Bills) are often overlooked but continue to deliver impactful performances.
- Abdul Carter (No. 22, NY Giants) and Chop Robinson (No. 24, Miami Dolphins) are two of the league’s most exciting young edge threats, poised for major breakout seasons.
- Josh Sweat (No. 25, Arizona Cardinals) rounds out the list after a strong transition season in the desert.
Full Top 25 Edge Rushers (2025)
| Rank | Player | Team |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Myles Garrett | Cleveland Browns |
| 2 | Micah Parsons | Dallas Cowboys |
| 3 | T.J. Watt | Pittsburgh Steelers |
| 4 | Maxx Crosby | Las Vegas Raiders |
| 5 | Aidan Hutchinson | Detroit Lions |
| 6 | Nick Bosa | San Francisco 49ers |
| 7 | Jared Verse | LA Rams |
| 8 | Will Anderson Jr. | Houston Texans |
| 9 | Josh Hines-Allen | Jacksonville Jaguars |
| 10 | Trey Hendrickson | Cincinnati Bengals |
| 11 | Khalil Mack | LA Chargers |
| 12 | Andrew Van Ginkel | Minnesota Vikings |
| 13 | Rashan Gary | Green Bay Packers |
| 14 | Brian Burns | NY Giants |
| 15 | Odafe Oweh | Baltimore Ravens |
| 16 | Jonathan Greenard | Minnesota Vikings |
| 17 | Nik Bonitto | Denver Broncos |
| 18 | Danielle Hunter | Houston Texans |
| 19 | Alex Highsmith | Pittsburgh Steelers |
| 20 | Greg Rosseau | Buffalo Bills |
| 21 | Kayvon Thibodeaux | NY Giants |
| 22 | Abdul Carter | NY Giants |
| 23 | Nolan Smith | Philadelphia Eagles |
| 24 | Chop Robinson | Miami Dolphins |
| 25 | Josh Sweat | Arizona Cardinals |
With edge rushers playing a pivotal role in shaping defenses, Byron Jones’ 2025 rankings provide valuable insight into who’s making the biggest impact in the trenches. As offensive lines scramble to adapt, expect these 25 names to be at the center of every game plan.
