Danielle Hunter

Danielle Hunter Player Profile

Summary

Danielle Hunter was selected in the 3rd Round (#88 Overall) in the 2015 Draft out of LSU. Hunter is an elite pass-rushing defensive end with a rare combination of length, speed, and bend around the edge. Since entering the NFL in 2015, he has consistently produced double-digit sack seasons when healthy and is considered one of the most disruptive edge players in the league. While his pass-rush talent is undeniable, injuries and occasional run-defense lapses have tempered his impact. When fully healthy, Hunter is a cornerstone for any defensive front.

Strengths

  • Elite pass-rushing ability: Hunter excels with a variety of pass-rush moves, including speed rush, bull rush, and spin moves. He has consistently been among league leaders in pressures and sacks when healthy.

  • Length and athleticism: At 6′5″ with long arms and fluid athleticism, he can disengage from blockers, bat passes, and extend the field.

  • Edge-setting and pursuit: His speed and closing ability allow him to chase down quarterbacks and running backs effectively from the edge.

  • Versatility in defensive schemes: Hunter can play as a stand-up edge rusher in 3-4 schemes or as a hand-in-the-dirt 4-3 defensive end, making him adaptable to multiple defensive fronts.

  • Consistent production: When healthy, he has multiple seasons with 10+ sacks and over 40 quarterback pressures.

Weaknesses

  • Injury history: Hunter has suffered significant injuries, including shoulder and biceps issues, which have limited his availability and raised concerns about durability.

  • Run-defense consistency: While dominant as a pass rusher, he can be neutralized in the run game, particularly when blockers get inside leverage.

  • Occasional over-pursuit: His aggressiveness off the edge can sometimes leave cutback lanes open for ball carriers.

  • Needs high snap count to maximize impact: Hunter’s value is maximized in schemes that rotate him frequently to keep him fresh; heavy workloads without rotation may diminish his effectiveness.

Fit & Outlook

Hunter best fits a team that employs a rotation of pass rushers to keep him fresh, with schemes that allow him to attack edges and maximize his speed/length advantage. Hunter is a primary edge rusher, often leading the defensive front in sacks and pressures. Can serve as a situational pass rusher if health is a concern. Hunter was operated as an elite edge rusher capable of 15+ sacks and Pro Bowl-caliber impact for quite some time with no signs of slowing down any time soon.