3. Khalil Mack– It’s all beginning to wind down. For a while, I didn’t think this guy would play football last season. I felt he was disrespected by the Oakland Raiders with how they didn’t extend his contract because he’s been nothing but productive since being drafted in 2014. I’ll never forget the morning of September 1st, 2018. I was getting ready for a full day of college football when the news broke about the Chicago Bears making a trade for an all-pro defensive player, something they haven’t had since the days of Brian Urlacher. Khalil Mack chimes in as my third best player in the league and my second-ranked defensive player.
This guy has been nothing but stellar since he was drafted, I can’t say enough about him. I look at the motor he plays with every Sunday. He’s revved up and ready to go on every single play. He’s talented, explosive and strong. There are many football players who possess those qualities and Khalil is one of them but what stands out is how he takes those traits and tries to outwork everybody around him. The one thing he doesn’t get credit for is how intelligent he is as a football player. Normally, defensive players that call out plays and know what’s about to happen come from middle linebackers, Khalil does that as a defensive end. He knows every formation, what the other team will do, then he gets there to stop it. When it comes to rushing the passer, he’s been one of the best in the league and it isn’t just getting to the quarterback, it’s how he does it. I’ve seen this guy single-handedly throw people like they’re rag dolls with one hand and push them to get to the quarterback. One guy can’t block, neither can two and I’ve seen him beat two blockers. What can’t he do? He has unique power that you need to be aware of as an offensive lineman, he plays with a great low center of gravity when an offensive lineman is peddling back and gets high up in his stance, Khalil always has the advantage because he’s always low.
Number 52 is the reason why the Bears defense was the best in the league last year. Isn’t it incredible that one guy can make all the difference? He was my pick to win defensive MVP until he injured his ankle and missed some time. I can’t wait to see what he does in Chicago this season.
