There's little debate that Bengals defensive tackle Geno Atkins is the best interior pass-rusher in the AFC North. Picking out the best edge rusher is more difficult, especially after the Ravens' recent addition of Elvis Dumervil.
It was a tough enough decision narrowing the field to five rushers for the poll. That meant talented players such as Jabaal Sheard and Carlos Dunlap had to unfortunately be left off.
These are the five players I selected for the poll:
Elvis Dumervil, Ravens: His 11 sacks last year ranked sixth in the AFC. Dumervil totaled 37.5 sacks in his past three seasons.
Michael Johnson, Bengals: He enjoyed a breakout season in 2012, when he posted 11.5 sacks (fifth-most in the AFC). That led to the Bengals putting the franchise tag on him.
Paul Kruger, Browns: After leading the Ravens with nine sacks in the regular season, Kruger raised his game in the postseason, where he registered 4.5 sacks in four games.
Terrell Suggs, Ravens: He finished with a career-low two sacks in eight games last season. But Suggs totaled 25 sacks the past two seasons and was named NFL Defensive Player of the Year in 2011.
LaMarr Woodley, Steelers: It was a disappointing season last season, when he managed four sacks. Over the previous four seasons, Woodley was among the most consistent rushers with 44 sacks.
After you record your vote, tell me why you voted that way by dropping me a note into the AFC North mailbag. Your comment could be used for a post on this blog later in the week.
