KC Chiefs: The Top Ten Playmakers for 2015
Nov 16, 2014; Kansas City, MO, USA; Kansas City Chiefs nose tackle
Dontari Poe(92) sacks Seattle Seahawks quarterback
Russell Wilson(3) in the second half at Arrowhead Stadium. Kansas City won the game 24-20. Mandatory Credit: John Rieger-USA TODAY Sports
9. Dontari Poe – Defensive Tackle
Dontari Poe is developing into one of the best nose tackles in the entire league. Though his stats aren’t flashy like that of Justin Houston, Poe is a key player for Bob Sutton’s defense.
Poe’s inhuman-like combination of size and speed make him a nightmare for offensive linemen. According to his profile on NFL.com, Dontari Poe is listed at 346 lbs. At the 2012 Scouting Combine, Poe ran his 40-yard dash in 4.98 seconds and bench pressed 225 lbs a total of 44 times. Those are scary results for a man of Poe’s size.
His ability to disrupt the quarterback has been a big reason that the Chiefs have had success on defense. Last season, the Chiefs were ranked second in pass defense and second in scoring defense. This can be attributed to Poe bull-rushing the middle of the offensive line and making the opposing quarterback have to roll out of the pocket.
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Getting to the quarterback is another skill that Poe possesses. Each year that he’s been in the league, his sack total has increased.
What’s even better is that Poe is only entering his fourth season. He’s still a young player and has tons of potential to become an all-time great.
To make a long story short, the Chiefs’ defense wouldn’t be where it is today without the help of this man. He has a knack for pressuring the opposing quarterback which leads to either sacks or turnovers.
I think that this year will be another improved year for the nose tackle. Each year that passes is another year that Poe can develop his skills and become much more effective in Sutton’s defense.
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