2015 All-NFC North Team

Nov 27, 2014; Detroit, MI, USA; Chicago Bears quarterback Jay Cutler (6) is sacked by Detroit Lions defensive end

(94) during the fourth quarter against the at Ford Field. Mandatory Credit: Andrew Weber-USA TODAY Sports

DE: Ezekiel Ansah, DET

Showing huge upside as a pass rusher, and some-what surprising production as a run defender, Ziggy Ansah has become arguably the best defensive lineman in the NFC North. His 15.5 sacks through his first two seasons are impressive, but Ansah has the talent to do so much more. His upside as a pass rusher is truly elite. Ansah is arguably the most intriguing young pass rusher in the entire NFL.

DE: Mike Daniels, GB

While he may not be a well-known player, Mike Daniels is proving to be one of the best 3-4 defensive ends in the entire league. He is a very high motor player with great strength and surprising quickness. He is a great run defender, and has also shown the ability to rush the passer. Daniels certainly deserves his spot on the defensive line.

DT: Haloti Ngata, DET

There were not a lot of great choices on the defensive line, with Ansah, Daniels and newcomer Haloti Ngata clearly standing out. Because of this, I decided to go with three defensive lineman and four linebackers.

Filling the shoes of Ndamukong Suh is going to be impossible, but Ngata is a very good player in his own right. The Lions’ defense really should not miss a beat with Ngata stepping in on the inside. He is a very strong player who excels in run defense. While his athleticism is fairly limited these days, Ngata still has the quickness to make a play behind the line of scrimmage as well. He is a great player who is entering a fantastic situation in Detroit.

Next: Linebackers