#36 Geno Atkins

NFL Network continued their countdown of the Top 100 Players in the league. Last week, #40-31 was unveiled. Three San Francisco 49ers players were among the ten with tight end Vernon Davis, linebacker NaVorro Bowman, and running back Frank Gore. The 49ers are one of the most talented teams in the league so it's no real surprise that they have a bunch in the countdown. If my vote counted, I would have Bowman higher on the list. It should be illegal for one team to have two players like Bowman and Patrick Willis at inside linebacker. But, that's another story. One of my favorite players in the league popped up at #36. There was never a doubt that Cincinnati Bengals defensive tackle Geno Atkins would be on the list. He's very much an ascending player. He'll likely be even higher next year. Haloti Ngata of the Baltimore Ravens and Vince Wilfork of the New England Patriots might get much more attention among interior defensive linemen, but Atkins might be the best in the league right now. He's certainly the best interior pass rusher. 12.5 sacks doesn't happen often from this position. Atkins did just that. His pass rushing, quickness and especially his size reminds me of Minnesota Vikings Hall of Fame defensive tackle John Randle. Minus the crazy. Atkins takes apart offensive lines with strength and quickness rather than size. Ngata and Wilfork push the scale at around 350lbs. Randle and Atkins did their damage up the middle south of 300lbs. It was amazing to see with Randle. Loved seeing it with Randle. I'm really enjoying seeing it with Atkins. He's a fun player to watch.

While I consider Geno Atkins underrated he's certainly not an unknown. In his three year career he's made the Pro Bowl twice. More importantly, he's been named All-Pro twice. He's definitely known and respected around the league. Maybe playing for Cincinnati keeps him from becoming a household name. That should change. The Bengals are a team that's been on the rise with two straight playoff appearances. The offense is getting better quickly behind quarterback Andy Dalton. The defense has been terrific. Atkins is a huge reason for that. He's a star but he doesn't seek being a star. Always refreshing. He's one of the best football players in the league and he carries himself as if he's looking for a tryout. I like this kid. He's fast become one of my favorite non-Minnesota Vikings players.