Ranking top-5 edge rushing duos after Chargers blockbuster trade for Khalil Mack
By Jason Reed
The LA Chargers made one of the biggest trades in franchise history on Thursday as the team traded a second and future sixth-round pick for All-Pro edge rusher, Khalil Mack. Mack has a history with Brandon Staley and reunites with his former linebackers coach to play alongside Joey Bosa.
This trade was unexpected and sent shockwaves through the Chargers' fanbase. The Bolts got a premier player at a premier position for the cost of a second-round and future sixth-round pick. The Chargers are absorbing Mack's contract, but with the salary cap going up, the team will likely be just fine.
The idea of Mack and Joey Bosa playing on the same defensive line is extremely exciting and with that in mind, we wanted to put to the test just how good they are as an edge-rushing duo. To make this list, both players have to play on the edge and have to be on their respective teams in 2022 already (so no Browns because of Jadeveon Clowney).
Ranking the top-5 edge rushing duos after monster Khalil Mack trade:
5. Harold Landry and Denico Autry, Tennessee Titans
Harold Landry and Denico Autry are not among the biggest names in the NFL at their position but they are among some of the best. Both Autry and Landry finished in the top-14 in pressures off the edge in 2021 (per PFF) with Landry being tied for ninth and Autry being tied for 14th.
The team may not have a top-five or so edge rusher on the roster but having two solid, consistent guys easily puts the Titans on this list. The Titans have one of the best defensive lines overall in football and that was on full display in their playoff loss to the Cincinnati Bengals.
Denico Autry is on his way down in the league at his age but it still a consistent player. However, Landry is on his way up entering his prime so any regression from Autry will likely be made up by progression from Landry.