Eric Allen gives Dawk props

Updated: April 16, 2007

The List: Top 5 ferocious hitters

By Eric Allen ESPN.com
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Big-time hitters make their presence felt almost every time they take the field. They play with a controlled aggression and have little regard for their own welfare. Here are my top five ferocious hitters in the league.
Sean Taylor, FS, Washington Redskins: He's reckless and plays with no regard for his body. A great hitter has to have no fear of hurting himself and that's the way Taylor plays. He's a physically dominant football player and brings that Ronnie Lott type of aura.
Troy Polamalu, SS, Pittsburgh Steelers: He's an impact player and brings the heat while playing at all three levels of the field. He's like a tiger on the field, but will miss tackles because he goes all out with his body.

Brian
Dawkins, FS, Philadelphia Eagles:
He's another hitter who wreaks havoc on all three levels and absolutely destroys
people.

Rodney Harrison, FS, New England Patriots: He's known around the league for being a devastating tackler. After he delivers a big hit there are normally some flags and fines.
Julius Peppers, DE, Carolina Panthers: He's a physical freak, and when he comes off the corner he hurts people. You can't say he's just a defensive end because unlike a lot of ends he delivers a blow that is remembered.
http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/columns/story?columnist=allen_eric&id=2839329

It's great to see Dawkins get his respect. He has been one of the best safeties in the game for years now, and is overlooked a lot nationally.When you need a big play Weapon X gets you one. He is just a beast, and even if he never makes the NFL Hall of Fame, he will always be an Eagles legend.

As far as other hard hitters in the NFL today, I'd like to give some other names. Takeo Spikes, Donovin Darius, Adrian Wilson, Roy Williams, Sheldon Brown, Chris McCalister, Al Wilson, Keith Bulluck, Brian Urlacher, Ken Hamlin, Simeon Rice, Teddy Bruschi, Richard Seymour, Derrick Johnson, Shawne Merriman, Demarcus Ware, Joey Porter, Jeremiah Trotter, and Derrick Brooks. I can't beleive I actually just listed 3 Cowboys!