Dwight Freeney, a former NFL player, discussed the toughest quarterbacks for him to sack during his 16-year career in a recent podcast with Keyshawn Johnson. He mentioned Tom Brady as one of the most challenging due to the Patriots’ quick passing game and Brady’s ability to get rid of the ball in under two seconds. Freeney also praised Brady’s awareness and how he aimed to avoid getting sacked at all costs. Freeney faced Brady and the Patriots multiple times during his career, highlighting the intense rivalry between the two teams and legendary quarterbacks like Peyton Manning as well.
The rivalry between Brady and Manning, both considered among the best NFL quarterbacks, was a significant part of Freeney’s career. From Brady’s first Super Bowl title in 2001 to Manning’s retirement in 2016, the two quarterbacks were often pitted against each other in high-stakes games. Brady went on to win three more Super Bowls, solidifying his status as the greatest NFL quarterback before retiring in 2023. Freeney praised Brady’s abilities on the field, acknowledging the challenges he faced when trying to sack him during their matchups.
Freeney’s history with Brady goes back to their college days when Freeney first faced Brady as the backup quarterback for the Michigan Wolverines. Despite their early encounter, Freeney continued to compete against Brady throughout their professional careers. Freeney also mentioned Steve McNair, the late Tennessee Titans quarterback, as another tough opponent to sack. Freeney described McNair as “country strong” and mobile, making him difficult to bring down and elusive on the field.
While Freeney found success in sacking numerous quarterbacks throughout his career, there were two quarterbacks he never had the opportunity to sack. One was Brett Favre, mostly due to Freeney’s limited opportunities to face the NFC quarterback. The other was his former Colts teammate Peyton Manning, who he was discouraged from sacking during practice to avoid injury. Freeney shared a humorous anecdote about his fellow teammate Robert Mathis sacking Manning after he left the Colts for the Denver Broncos, sending a picture of the moment to both Freeney and Manning to gloat.
Despite not being able to sack Manning himself, Freeney had a successful career in the NFL and made a significant impact as a pass-rusher. He reflected on his encounters with different quarterbacks, discussing the challenges and strategies he used to try and bring them down. Freeney’s insight into facing elite quarterbacks like Brady and McNair provides a unique perspective on the competitive nature of professional football and the skills required to succeed in a highly competitive environment. Overall, Freeney’s experiences highlight the intensity and excitement of competing against some of the best quarterbacks in NFL history.
