New York Giants: Top 10 Defensive Linemen Of All Time
By Eric Mollo
Oct 21, 2013; East Rutherford, NJ, USA; New York Giants defensive end Justin Tuck (91) sacks Minnesota Vikings quarterback Josh Freeman (12) during the second half at MetLife Stadium. New York Giants defeat the Minnesota Vikings 23-7. Mandatory Credit: Jim O
- Justin Tuck
From a statistical standpoint, Osi is the more productive end, but I put Tuck one spot ahead because when he was healthy and on the field he did everything. Overall, Tuck was as rock-solid a defensive end as you’d find. A strong run-defender and consistent pass rusher, at his peak he was arguably the best left end in the NFL. His ability to kick inside and play some defensive tackle, while not dominant, added an extra look offenses had to account for—Tuck just made the defense more dynamic in so many ways. And, he was a team captain for a few years. His production reflected his ability to lead, which made him a cornerstone player on the Giants defense.
I’m reluctant to call Tuck a Hall of Famer because his production doesn’t reflect those in Canton, but he earned an eventual call to the Giants Ring of Honor.
Next: 5. Justin Tuck