Ranking the top 10 defensive players in NFL history…
Drafted 186th overall in the 14th round by the Los Angeles Rams in the 1961 NFL Draft out of South Carolina State and Mississippi Vocational, Jones quickly established himself as a dominant defensive end, forming part of the legendary “Fearsome Foursome” alongside Merlin Olsen, Rosey Grier, and Lamar Lundy.
Over 11 seasons with the Rams, Jones revolutionized the pass rush, coining the term “sack” and unofficially amassing 159.5 sacks with the team, including back-to-back 22-sack seasons in 1964 and 1968.
He earned five consecutive consensus All-Pro selections from 1965 to 1969 and led the league in sacks multiple times, though the stat wasn’t officially tracked until 1982. Traded to the San Diego Chargers in 1972, he added 26 sacks over two years, earning another Pro Bowl nod.
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He concluded his career with the Washington Redskins in 1974, retiring with an unofficial total of 173.5 sacks, which would rank him among the all-time leaders.
Jones’s career totals include 191 games played, two interceptions and remarkable durability, missing just six games in his career. He was named AP NFL Defensive Player of the Week four times between 1967 and 1970 and ranked 13th on The Sporting News’ list of the 100 Greatest Football Players in 1999.
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Jones’s standout attributes were his exceptional speed for a lineman, quick hands and relentless motor, allowing him to pursue quarterbacks and runners sideline-to-sideline. He was known for his signature head slap technique, which was later banned.
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Jones’s playing style was aggressive and violent, embodying a ferocious pursuit that intimidated offenses and redefined the defensive end position.
[He was inducted](https://www.profootballhof.com/photos/gallery/deacon-jones,-class-of-1980/) into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1980.
Featured image via David Boss/USA TODAY Sports