The progression of NFL passing attacks has increased the value of edge rushers to NFL defenses, and the players below are the college pass-rushing prospects I feel project best to the next level.
Yes, there are players who have gotten to the quarterback more often -- one player on our list does not have a sack this season -- and one of the players below has not seen the field in 2010. However, based on mitigating factors such as supporting cast, level of competition and scheme these are the three outside rushers in this year's class.
Which Big Ten defensive end leads this year's crop of pass rushers? Which teammates rank among the best despite having not played yet in 2010? And why does a lack of production fail to knock a talented hybrid DE/OLB off the list? Become an ESPN Insider to find out. 
Steve Muench
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Todd McShay (left) is the director of college scouting for Scouts Inc. McShay, who played quarterback at Richmond, has been evaluating NFL prospects since 1998. Follow Todd on Twitter: @McShay13
Steve Muench (middle) played guard at Richmond and worked in the athletic department there and at Boston College before joining Scouts Inc. in 2002. Follow Steve on Twitter: @SteveMuenchESPN
Kevin Weidl (right) is a former quarterback for Indiana (Pa.) University who worked in the pro scouting department for the New York Jets before joining Scouts Inc. in 2007. Follow Kevin on Twitter: @Kevin_Weidl
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