NFL Power Rankings: 30 Greatest Defensive Players Of All-Time
By Robby Sabo
10. Deacon Jones, DE
- Los Angeles Rams (1961-71), San Diego Chargers (1972-73), Washington Redskins (1974)
- 5-Time 1st Team All-Pro
One of the guys Merlin Olsen helped spring to so many unofficial sacks was Deacon Jones – who by many accounts was the best pure pass rusher in the history of football.
Jones had it all. He had size, explosiveness, attitude and a mind for the game.
Because sacks weren’t recorded during his day, many speculate that Jones would be the all-time leader in the category if they had been. The number that’s often thrown around is 179.5 sacks during his 14 seasons.
Although it’s unofficial, that would place him third all-time if accurate.
Next: Number 9