How Good is Defensive End Cameron Wake?

Both Pro Football Focus and the NFL Network released their own version of the Top 100 players in the NFL in 2012. There seemed to be a little dispute on how good Cameron Wake is. NFL Network ranked Wake the 89th best player while PFF ranked him number 8, including an honorable mention for defensive player of the year.

I thought it would be a good idea to look at Wake’s numbers to see which one of these rankings are more realistic.

Last year was Wake’s first year playing as a 4-3 defensive end. The change didn’t seem to bother him much, as he racked up 15 sacks, the 4th most in the NFL. He also forced three fumbles which placed him within the top 25 of the category. These numbers were good enough for Wake to be selected to go to the Pro Bowl for the second time in four years and was named a 1st Team all Pro in 2012.

Wake’s 15 sacks came in a total of 8 games which is pretty good, including a 4.5 sack performance against Arizona, and a 3 sack performance against San Fran. These are pretty solid stats seeing how there was never a consistent pass rusher lined up on the other side.

PFF also stated that Wake had 23 stops in the run game which was 8th most by a 4-3 defensive end. The Dolphins had the best defense on rushes to the right side, Wake being a key part of that stat.

It is clear that Cam can get to the QB, and he can play extremely well against the run. He is a nightmare for most tackles, exploding off the line and being able to get to the ball.

After sharing a few stats from the 2012 season which ranking seems more fitting for the 4 year player who came over from the CFL?

I believe Wake is a top 10 player, a true playmaker that every team worries about facing each Sunday. PFF seems to rank Wake a lot closer to where he belongs. 89 is way to low for someone with the Numbers Wake was able to put up in 2012.

What do you guys think???