NFL Sack Leaders 2007

Nothing disrupts a nice, methodical scoring drive quite like the sight of your quarterback getting his teeth rattled by a defensive end, a blitzing linebacker, or a defensive back sneaking in from the backside.

Sacks change the complexion of a possession. They leave quarterbacks with jitters and happy feet. They make so-so defensive backs look better than they really are.

They make young men rich, famous, and very valuable. (Witness: 2007 NFL sacks leader Jared Allen left Kansas City in a trade to the Vikings, who gave up four draft picks in the deal.) They even inspire cab drivers from the Bronx to learn how to spell “Osi Umenyiora.”

Who caused the most havoc in NFL backfield in 2007?

Here’s the list:

1. Jared Allen, Kansas City — 15.5

2. Patrick Kerney, Seattle — 14.5

3. DeMarcus Ware, Dallas — 14.0

T3. Mario Williams, Houston — 14.0

5. Osi Umenyiora, NY Giants — 13.0

6. Trent Cole, Philadelphia — 12.5

T6. Elvis Dumervil, Denver — 12.5

T6. Greg Ellis, Dallas — 12.5

T6. Shawne Merriman, San Diego — 12.5

T6. Mike Vrabel, New England — 12.5

Source: NFL.com