Top NFL Defensive Linemen with the Most Interceptions

Interceptions are a significant statistic in the world of professional football, often associated with defensive backs due to their proximity to the quarterback. However, defensive linemen can also be responsible for impressive interceptions. This article delves into the history of defensive linemen who have achieved the most interceptions in their NFL careers, highlighting notable players and providing an overview of how these stats are recorded and verified.

Notable Interceptions by Defensive Linemen

Defensive linemen, despite their primary role being a disruptor of the offensive line, occasionally find themselves in the position to intercept opposing quarterback throws. While it's less common compared to linebackers and defensive backs, defensive linemen have managed to intercept passes and have their names etched in football history.

According to recent records, the standing top defensive linemen with the most interceptions are:

Ted Hendricks

Ted Hendricks is a legendary figure in the NFL, known for his impressive career and an outstanding 26 interceptions. Despite the majority of his interceptions coming as a linebacker, he is frequently discussed in the context of defensive players due to his exceptional skills on the field.

Jim Marshall

Jim Marshall, a legendary defensive end for the Minnesota Vikings, has a remarkable 30 interceptions during his career. His ability to get into the end zone and make plays speaks volumes about the defensive prowess of the Vikings during his tenure.

Alan Page

Alan Page, another famous member of the Vikings, contributed to the team's defensive successes with 25 interceptions. His presence on the defensive line added another layer of intimidation to the Vikings' defense, making them one of the most formidable teams of the era.

Ron McDole

Ron McDole, also known as “The Dancing Bear,” had a significant 12 interceptions over his 18-season career with the Buffalo Bills and Washington Redskins. Despite not playing exclusively as a defensive lineman, his skill set and impact were undeniable, making him a standout player.

Julius Peppers

Julius Peppers, though he mainly played as defensive end and defensive tackle, achieved 11 interceptions during his career, with the Panthers, Bears, and Packers. He is the highest active defensive lineman in terms of interceptions.

Other Notable Defensive Linemen with Multiple Interceptions

Richard Dent, Jason Taylor, and Chris Doleman are tied for third place with 8 interceptions each. Their versatility and impact on the field have made them standout players in the league, despite not primarily being known for their interception skills.

How to Verify and Stay Informed

To stay up-to-date with the latest statistics on defensive linemen with the most interceptions, it's essential to consult the most recent NFL records or databases. Verification can be complex, requiring meticulous record-keeping and analysis of game data. Using advanced search engines and tools can help in obtaining accurate and recent information.

For example, recent records show that:

Ron McDole with 12 interceptions over 18 seasons with Buffalo and Washington. Julius Peppers with 11 interceptions across the Panthers, Bears, and Packers. Richard Dent, Jason Taylor, and Chris Doleman with 8 interceptions each.

Conclusion

While interceptions are more commonly associated with defensive backs and linebackers, defensive linemen have occasionally made significant contributions in this category. Players like Ted Hendricks, Jim Marshall, and Ron McDole stand out as hallmarks of this impressive achievement. As the NFL continues to evolve, it will be interesting to see which defensive linemen rise to the top and add to this elite group of players.