Talk about a rise! Danielle Hunter isn’t just on the NFL Top 100, he’s shot up to No. 25! The Arizona Cardinals have managed to dodge this defensive force for two seasons, but their luck is about to run out. Are their tackles ready for what’s coming in Week 15?

The annual “NFL Top 100” list has once again captivated the attention of American football enthusiasts, revealing the sport’s elite talents as voted by their peers, with the latest segment highlighting several prominent figures and a significant jump for one particular defensive force.

This year’s highly anticipated rankings have brought to light the continued ascent of key players, including linebacker Josh Sweat, who secured the No. 95 spot, and tight end Trey McBride, recognized at No. 65, solidifying their positions among the league’s best.

Veteran safety Budda Baker of the Arizona Cardinals further cemented his legacy by making the prestigious list for an impressive sixth consecutive year, landing at No. 34, a testament to his consistent high-level performance and impact on the field.

However, it was the reveal of players ranked between No. 30 and No. 21 that truly caught the eye of Houston Texans and Arizona Cardinals fans alike. Among this elite group, Houston Texans defensive end Danielle Hunter dramatically improved his standing, climbing to No. 25 after being ranked No. 68 in the previous year’s assessment.

Hunter’s significant leap in the “NFL Top 100” underscores his exceptional talent and disruptive presence as a premier defensive end. His ability to consistently pressure quarterbacks and impact opposing offenses has made him one of the most feared pass rushers in American football.

For the Arizona Cardinals, Hunter’s new ranking carries particular weight. They managed to avoid facing the formidable defensive end in the last two seasons, primarily due to his team affiliations. In 2023, the Cardinals played the Texans while Hunter was still a standout for the Minnesota Vikings, and last season, they faced the Vikings after Hunter had been traded to Houston.

This season, however, the Cardinals’ avoidance streak will come to an end. A pivotal Week 15 road game against the Houston Texans means the Arizona offensive line will have to contend directly with the highly-ranked Danielle Hunter. This matchup presents a significant test for the team’s tackles, specifically Paris Johnson and Jonah Williams.

The impending clash raises critical questions about whether the Cardinals’ offensive tackles are adequately prepared to neutralize Hunter’s relentless pass-rushing skills. Their performance against such an elite defensive end will undoubtedly be a crucial factor in the outcome of the game and a key indicator of their readiness for top-tier competition in the NFL.