Cowboys outside linebacker turned defensive end DeMarcus Ware fell out of the Top 10 in this year’s edition of the NFL Network’s Top 100, a list of the 100 best players in the NFL as voted on by the players, but he remains the highest ranking member of “America’s Team” at No. 12.
Last year, Ware ranked No. 6, but had a bit of a rough season, playing through a hyperextended elbow and a shoulder injury that would eventually require offseason surgery. (Of course, “rough” is a relative term: Ware still recorded 11.5 sacks and five forced fumbles).
“Let’s not be so quick to anoint (Houston Texans defensive end) J.J. Watt the best pass rusher in the state of Texas just yet,” Hall of Fame defensive tackle/NFL Network analyst Warren Sapp said, via the Dallas Morning News. “When you get to triple digits [in sacks] … and they’re still getting double digits every year, I’m going to wait until he is thrown off the throne and not just dethroned. J.J. Watt’s good but he’s no DeMarcus Ware going after the quarterback, yet.”
Sapp wasn't limited to effusive praise for Ware, though. The former Buccaneer and Raider went on to question Ware’s leadership aloud, saying he’d like to see more from the veteran.
“The most important question for me with Ware is leading this ballclub,” Sapp said. “I want to see him more demonstrative, more ‘Fellas! We’re going this way. And you’re going behind me.’ That’s my biggest question I have for him is his leadership ability.
“Sometimes, you got to grab the bull by the horns, and I don’t think he’s done that in Dallas.”
Ware was only one of three Cowboys to crack the Top 100. Tight end Jason Witten came in at No. 41 and receiver Dez Bryant was six spots ahead of that, at No. 35.
Stay on top of the latest Dallas Cowboys news with NBCDFW.com. Follow NBC DFW on Facebook or have breaking Cowboys news sent directly to your phone with Blue Star SMS alerts. Text "bluestar" to 622339 (NBCDFW) to subscribe, text HELP for more info, and text STOP to end the subscription. Message and data rates may apply.Read more about it here.
