WHO YOU GOT TAGGING IN?
The WWE hosts an annual Royal Rumble highlighting current/former WWE and celebrity wrestlers. These rumbles are staged, obviously (or maybe not!), but that does not lessen the entertainment value. Over the years, some NFL players, such as Marshawn Lynch, Pat McAffe, and Gronk, have participated in these events.
Which five players would you pick to hit the top rope and don some flashy lycra?
1. Mekhi Becton
Becton is a literal giant – standing at 6’ 10’’ and weighing nearly 400lbs. His size alone would be nightmarish in the ring. Just imagine trying to take him down! Becton could smother opponents with his sheer body weight. Not only is he a big guy, he also posts a 4:7 speed – pretty fast for an offense tackle.
2. Aaron Donald
Donald is no stranger to brawls! Remember those ejections due to post-play scrums? Donald, a three-time DPOY and several All-Pro selections, is a force on the field and would certainly be formidable in the ring. He is probably the second strongest player in NFL history (Larry Allen). I trust he could suplex anyone in his path. Ask a few opposing linemen.
3. D.K. Metcalf
Metcalf is a specimen – completely ripped and just a beast on the deep ball and contested catches. He may be only 6’3″ and undersized in comparision, but Metcalf is faster and more agile than the rest of my squad. I believe he would be the needed change of pace and athleticism.
4. Derrick Henry
Henry is a literal monster when it comes to size and speed. He can benchpress 400 pounds and squat 350 and those are just his off field stats. On the field, Henry can stiffarm defenders into the 4th dimension and run over linebackers like a MACK truck. Imagine facing this freight train between the ropes.
5. Rodrigo Blankenship
Yes, this pick is an entertaining one. Blankenship is possibly one of the most unathletic players you will ever see in the NFL. The man may look like a broomstick with glasses, but he is a highly-respected top 10 kicker. Blankenship isn’t sizable given he’s only 185 pounds. But he brings a loyal fan-base, heart, and you can’t count someone nicknamed Hot Rod out of the match!
I’m going to have to go old school on you as I’m not up to speed on the current crop of NFL players. Anyway, here’s my list:
1. Mean Joe Greene – he mixed in some wrestling on the gridiron if you watch his tape
2. Conrad Dobler – the dirtiest player in the NFL during his day, an OL
3. Ndamukong Suh – OK, I’ll include one present day player.
4. Dick Butkus – most feared player. Ever.
5. Dick Night Trane Lane – look him up. The NFL had to change the rules about tackling because he was so ferocious.
I agree with the dirty players, but you did exclude Dan Diedorf and Bill Romanowski, he was so brutal that the NFL banned him from playing for two years.
Whistleblower, this is a great article. I love how you mixed the two sports together. For active players I would have Miles Garrett as long as he had a helmet at all times to use.
I like your Blankenship pick. I feel he could be the Nacho Libre wrestler of your crew.
Who do you have as your last man standing from your team and why?
The last man standing for me would be Aaron Donald, just due to his ability to play through injuries.