I would be quick to argue that the most important defensive position on a football field is pass-rusher. Whether operating from a traditional 4-3 base or odd-man front, the pass-rusher continues to be the most valued position in today’s NFL.
Think of it this way. A good pass-rushing team makes life exponentially easier for their secondary. Why? Because the quarterback has less time to go through his progressions, despite receivers being open.
Did you know? OLB Aaron Lynch is one of only 3 49ers since 2000 to register at least 6 sacks in each of his first two NFL seasons… #49ers
— Ryan Sakamoto (@SakamotoRyan) November 19, 2015
A good cornerback can essentially take away half the field initially, but due to a lack of a solid pass-rush, the receiver will often times get open.