3 free agent edge rusher targets if Commanders trade Montez Sweat

2. Jerry Hughes

A former first-round pick of the Colts back in 2010, Hughes has played the last nine seasons in Buffalo. He isn’t a household name by any stretch, but he’s one of the most consistent pass rushers nobody talks about.

That probably has something to do with the fact that Hughes’ numbers aren’t anything special. He hasn’t posted double-digit sacks since 2013 and 2014, and has just 11 QB takedowns over the last three seasons combined.

You know the old saying don’t judge a book by it’s cover? Well, that applies to Hughes’ stats, which don’t always tell the full story in the NFL. Since 2019, the 33-year-old owns an 87.4 pass-rush grade from Pro Football Focus.

That ranks as the 10th-best among edge rushers, which is mind-blowing given how many dominant DEs are in the game today. Hughes has struggled against the run as he’s gotten older, but teams will always fork over money for someone who can pressure opposing quarterbacks at a consistent rate.

Having just wrapped his 12th season in the league, Hughes does that better than some players who are still in their prime. His age might be a red flag for some fans, but he’s played at least 15 games every year dating back to 2012.