ESPN NFL

Once considered NFL misfits, tweener defensive end/outside linebacker prospects have become coveted commodities in today's NFL. The increased number of teams going to the 3-4 defense is a big reason for the change in philosophy. However, even teams that employ 4-3 defensive alignments, such as the Colts and Buccaneers, are finding ways to get production out of these undersized, but explosive pass-rushing types.

The bottom line is that many of the NFL's best defensive playmakers right now fit the rush linebacker mold, including Jason Taylor (Dolphins), John Abraham (Jets), Derrick Burgess (Raiders), Rosevelt Colvin (Patriots), Robert Mathis (Colts), Dwight Freeney (Colts), Simeon Rice (Buccaneers) and Joey Porter (Steelers).

Last year's class has already produced a couple of instant impact players in Shawne Merriman (Chargers) and DeMarcus Ware (Cowboys), as well as a couple of potential rising stars in David Pollack (Bengals) and Justin Tuck (NY Giants).

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