Top 5 Defensive Players from 2011: Number 1

Here we are, the top defensive player from the 2011 season. The Bulls had plenty of outstanding players.  Names like Michael Lanaris, Quenton Washington, and Mark Joyce came up big for the unit all season, but there is one player that takes the top spot in this countdown.

At number one on the countdown is linebacker DeDe Lattimore. Lattimore finished the 2011 season with 94 tackles (career high), 13 tackles for loss, 7 sacks, and 1 interception.

Lining up at the outside (WILL linebacker), Lattimore proved to be one of the most sure-handed tacklers on the defense, wrapping anyone up that came near him.  He set a new mark in sacks as defensive coordinator Mark Snyder sent him on more blitzes than normal, allowing him to use his aggressive nature and speed to get to the passer.  Lattimore led the team in tackling and will look to do the same again this year.

So there you have it.  Lattimore ranks as the best defensive player from 2011.  While everyone on defense played their hearts out, these are the top players.  Agree with the picks or think someone else should have been included on the list. Leave your thoughts!