The nose tackle position is often overlooked. They generally don’t generate big plays or highlight reel moments, and they don’t often pressure passers. Nose tackles tend to play a thankless position — at least as far as observers on the outside are concerned.
But players like Arkansas’ John Ridgeway III are certainly appreciated by their teammates. Their ability to control the line of scrimmage, occupy double-teams, and control gaps make the lives of other linemen and linebackers much easier.
The New York Giants have invested heavily in their defensive line over the years, but their defense suffered after losing Dalvin Tomlinson to free agency.