The NFL season is coming to a close, the penultimate week is almost upon us and so is the end of the year. While the offensive stars get most of the attention, the defensive players are also making their impact felt on the field.

A strong defense wins the game more often than not. From containing a flashy QB to getting nasty when required, the defensive masterminds know it all. So, without further ado, here are the top 5 defenders this season.

NFL 2023 Season: Smooth defensive operators

Though stats play an increasingly important role in judging a player’s ability. One must not forget the leadership and strength of a good defensive-minded player. Often they are the ones to rally the team in tough situations with a slim lead. So here are the top 5 D-Linemen:

Nick Bosa–DE 49ers

Nick Bosa is the reigning Defensive Player of the Year from last season. And he has not slowed down in this season as well. The DE for the San Francisco 49ers has made the team a fort at the backend. The 26-year-old has 49 tackles with 17 assists and has been responsible for 10.5 sacks this season.

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With the 49ers already in the playoffs, we are sure to get more defensive masterclasses from Bosa going forward.

Myles Garrett–DE Browns

Garret has been a solid rock for the Cleveland Browns all season long. His penchant for stopping the plays before they take dangerous routes is bar none. Garrett has registered 42 tackles this season with 9 assists. He also has 14 sacks to his name.

The Browns have also qualified for the playoffs and the 28-year-old will look to earn some jewellery at the end of the season.

Aaron Donald–DT Rams

Donald is the best defensive tackle in the game. And arguably one of the best defensive players of his generation. The three-time Defensive Player of the Year has been dominant once again, with 48 tackles to his name and assisting on 23 more. His 6 sacks this season are the cherry on the top.

The Los Angeles Rams are still on the hunt for a playoff spot. A win in their next matchup against the Giants will balloon their chances of doing so to 88%. The 32-year-old has his work cut out for him in the upcoming games.

TJ Watt–LB Steelers

He is the younger brother of J.J. Watt, but TJ Watt has emerged as a star in his own right. The outside linebacker leads the league with 17 sacks. Not only that, but he has 48 tackles and 23 assists in his name to boot.

The playoff road for the Pittsburgh Steelers is a tough one. They face the Seahawks next; it is a must-win game for Watt and Co. to keep the playoff dream alive.

Micah Parsons–LB Cowboys

The Cowboys’ first-round pick of the 2021 NFL Draft has been a revelation for their defense. Parsons’ speed, power, and instincts have been on display this season with 53 tackles and 26 assists. The 24-year-old also has 13 sacks this season.

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The Dallas Cowboys have slain some of the big-name teams this season and are already qualified for the playoffs. The squad will look to be defensively solid under Parsons’ leadership and take home the Lombardi trophy.

What players would you include in your top 5 D-Linemen of 2023? Let us know in the comments.

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