Best NFL Defense Rankings 2024: Who is the Best Defense in NFL?
The value of defense in the NFL cannot be overstated. If teams are going to contend for championships, it’s not simply a matter of getting a great quarterback and believing that he will lead a team to a title. The ability of a defense to stop an opponent and control the pace of the game is at least as important as offensive productivity and perhaps even more important.
In this piece, we will provide a detailed look at NFL defenses for the upcoming season. In addition to looking at past performances and achievements, we look at power rankings, defensive statistics, NFL draft selections, personnel and coaching changes along with the skill level of defenses for all 32 teams. Let’s take a look at how these defenses stack up throughout the entire NFL schedule.
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Top NFL Defense Rankings 2023
1. Cleveland Browns
- DE Myles Garrett, 14 sacks; LB Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah, 98 tackles; DB Martin Emerson, 4 interceptions.
- The Browns ranked first in total defense and pass defense last year.
- Browns have plenty of speed and power on defense, so they should be at or near the top again this season. Any team with Garrett has a chance to dominate.
2. Kansas City Chiefs
- DL Chris Jones, 10.5 sacks; DE George Karlaftis, 10.5 sacks; S Justin Reid, 95 tackles.
- The Chiefs relied on their defense more in 2023 than they had in previous championship runs. That ranked 2nd in overall defense and 2nd in scoring defense.
- The Chiefs are powerful on defense, but they lost CB L’Jarius Sneed to free agency. Trent McDuffie should step into his position and perform well.
3. New York Jets
- MLB C.J. Mosley, 152 tackles; DE Jermaine Johnson, 7.5 sacks.
- The Jets turned the corner on defense a year ago and ranked 3rd in overall defense and 2nd in pass defense.
- The Jets lost leading sacker Bruce Huff (10.0 sacks), but they replaced him with former Eagles DE Haason Reddick,who has since asked to be traded. The pass defense should be a going concern for the Jets.
4. Dallas Cowboys
- Edge rusher Micah Parson, 14.0 sacks; OLB Damone Clark, 115 tackles, CB DaRon Bland, 9 interceptions, 5 TDs.
- Cowboys ranked 5th in total defense and 5th in scoring defense.
- While Bland had a once-in-a-career type of performance with 5 interceptions returned for touchdowns, Parsons is a dominant leader who will ensure that Cowboys defense stands tall.
5. Baltimore Ravens
- DL Justin Madubuike, 13.0 sacks; ILB Roquan Smith 158 tackles; S Kyle Hamilton, 4 interceptions.
- 6th in total defense, 1st in points allowed and 1st in sacks.
- The Ravens are always going to be prepared on defense and special teams. The presence of Smith at linebacker ensures that the Ravens will be hard hitting and well-positioned.
6. New England Patriots
- MLB Ja’Whaun Bentley, 114 tackles; DT Christian Barmore, 8.5 sacks; OLB Jahlani Tavai, 107 tackles.
- Despite almost no help from the offense, the Patriots ranked 7th in total defense and 4th against the run.
- Unless the offense can play more efficiently, the defense will be forced to carry the Patriots.
7. San Francisco 49ers
- DE Nick Bosa, 10.5 sacks; MLB Fred Warner, 132 tackles; CB Charvarius Ward, 5 interceptions.
- 8th in total defense, 3rd against the run, tied for 1st in interceptions.
- Even though this team has explosive stars like Christian McCaffrey on offense, the Niners defense is a stand-out group that can win games with its big-play ability.
8. Buffalo Bills
- MLB Terrel Bernard, 143 tackles; DT Ed Oliver, 9.5 sacks; DB Rasul Douglas, 5 interceptions.
- 9th in total defense, 4th in points allowed, 4th in sacks.
- Loss of DE Leonard Floyd (10.5 sacks) is likely to hurt, but ball-hawking defense should create big plays.
9. Miami Dolphins
- OLB Bradley Chubb, 11.0 sacks; ILB David Long 110 tackles; CB Jalen Ramsey, 5 interceptions; CB Kader Kohou, 10 passes defensed.
- 10th in total defense, 3rd in sacks.
- Secondary looks strong, but can pass rush provide enough pressure?
10. Houston Texans
- DE Danielle Hunter, 16.5 sacks (with Vikings); OLB Christian Harris, 100 tackles; DB Derek Stingley, Jr., 5 interceptions.
- 14th in total defense, tied for 5th in turnover differential, 6th against the run.
- Presence of Hunter will make an improving defense very dangerous and potentially ferocious.
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Top Picks For The Week
Top Predictions: NFL Defenses Rankings for 2024
1. Cleveland Browns
The Browns have the best defensive lineman in the NFL in Myles Garrett. If any team wants to dominate, it must have a player who comes to assert his will on every single snap he is on the field. That is Garrett, and he has plenty of help on the defensive line.
The defense was solid last year, but there was some vulnerability against the run – at least compared to their stellar pass defense. This is an area that needs to improve, and defensive coordinator Jim Schwartz must make sure this happens. There are a number of young players that are likely to be in the rotation, and if players like DTs Mike Hall and Siaki Ika can step up, the defense could be the best in the league.
2. New York Jets
The combination of DE Jermaine Johnson and DT Quinnen Williams form the foundation of the defensive line that should be sensational this season. Johnson should reach double-digit sacks this season while Williams is far more athletic than the interior offensive linemen attempting to block him. Veteran linebacker C.J. Mosley is a nine-year veteran who has a coach’s understanding of how opposing offenses will attack. Will struggle in pass coverage from time to time.
The overall play of the defense may be dependent on the health of Aaron Rodgers. If the quarterback can stay healthy, the defense may not be required to dominate on an every-game basis. The offense needs to hold up its end this season.
3. Kansas City Chiefs
The combination of Chris Jones and George Karlaftis is the foundation of a defense that was a shutdown unit last year and should be close to that again. Safety Justin Reid has excellent range and can set the tone with his hitting from the back
Cornerback Trent McDuffie is always around the ball and he delivered 5 forced fumbles last season. He should be even better this year. If Nazeeh Johnson can make it all the way back from ACL surgery without any setbacks, the other CB slot could be set. The Chiefs traded L’Jarius Sneed to the Tennessee Titans, and the defense could suffer without him.
4. San Francisco 49ers
Nick Bosa is the engine for the 49ers pass rush, but they are looking for more than 10.5 sacks this season. In an attempt to increase the danger factor for opposing quarterbacks, the Niners brought in Leonard Floyd from the Bills. The results could be dramatic.
The linebacker position is led by Fred Warner, who led the team in tackles last year. Dre Greenlaw suffered a torn Achilles in the Super Bowl and will miss at least the first four games. Former Packer De’Vondre Campbell must show he can step in and make key plays on a consistent basis.
The 49ers have a new defensive coordinator in Nick Sorensen, and the 49ers could be more efficient in pass coverage than they were a year ago when they ranked 14th in yards allowed.
5. Baltimore Ravens
The Ravens have one of the best individual defensive players in the league in ILB Roquan Smith. He is smart, aggressive and fast, and that’s why he is the team’s best tackler. OLB Kyle Van Noy has shown he can get to the quarterback and create big plays. The Ravens were first in the league in fewest points allowed, and that’s the standard that the team must live up to if it truly has Super Bowl aspirations in 2024.
Zach Orr is the team’s new defensive coordinator, and this will be a major test. Orr has never made the defensive calls at any level, so there’s no track record to look back at. He will depend on safety Kyle Hamilton (81 tackles, 4 interceptions) to provide stability on the back end.
6. Dallas Cowboys
The Cowboys have one of the most impactful players in the league in Micah Parsons. He can play end or outside linebacker, and he has dramatic, game-changing speed when he rushes the quarterback and sets his mind on destroying a play. The Cowboys received record-setting play from cornerback DaRon Bland. Bland was an incredible ball hawk who had nine interceptions last season, and he returned five of them for touchdowns. No defensive back had ever returned that many interceptions for scores.
Mike Zimmer is the team’s new defensive coordinator, and this represents his return to the NFL after he was fired from his position as head coach of the Minnesota Vikings at the end of the 2021 season. Zimmer is clearly an old-school coach and he will not mince his words when he looks at film and makes his adjustments.
7. New England Patriots
While most observers look at the Patriots as a last-place team in the AFC East and one of the worst teams in the NFL, the defense is solid. Not only did that unit hold up last year and rank 7th in yards allowed, they have standout players in DT Christian Barmore, MLB Ja’Whaun Bentley and S Jabrill Peppers.
The return of second-year CB Christian Gonzalez from his season-ending shoulder injury could have a dramatic impact. He has demonstrated that he is capable of taking on the No. 1 receivers and holding them in check.
Under new head coach Jerod Mayo, the Patriots could play a more aggressive brand of defense this year than they did under Bill Belichick. The former coach made players pay for mistakes while Mayo may be more forgiving.
8. Houston Texans
The shocking success that the Texans had on offense last year was not matched by the defense. That unit had its moments, but it lacked consistency and finished 14th in yards allowed and 23rd against the pass. Newcomer Danielle Hunter (16.5 sacks with Vikings) could transform the pass rush into a very dangerous unit.
In addition to Hunter, Will Anderson was the NFL’s Defensive Rookie of the Year and he has a non-stop motor. A double-digit sack season is the least that can be expected. Suddenly, expectations for the Texans are huge and they are considered a team that could be the biggest challenger to Kansas City in the AFC. The offense is certainly on track, but can the defense step up this year for head coach DeMeco Ryans and defensive coordinator Matt Burke?
9. Pittsburgh Steelers
It may be hard to evaluate the Steelers defensive performance. While they gave up a ton of yards between the 20s, they did a solid job of keeping opponents off the scoreboard. The Steelers tied for 6th in points allowed, a repeat performance would be acceptable.
OLB T.J. Watt may very well be the best defensive player in the league after a brilliant season in 2023 that included 19.0 sacks, 68 tackles and a multitude of big plays. Adding former Raven LB Patrick Queen will be a boon to Watt.
Defensive coordinator Teryl Austin would like to see the Steelers get more from their interior pass rush. Defensive tackles had just 7.5 sacks last year. Safety Minkah Fitzpatrick needs to stay on the field after missing seven games due to injury.
10. Dallas Cowboys
Strange offseason and start to training camp with Jerry Jones not handling contract negotiations with urgency for several key players. This could have an impact on the motivation of the defense, but superstar Micah Parsons is capable of taking over any game with his superior athleticism and aggressiveness.
Parsons (14.0 sacks) is a pass rushing machine, while Damone Clark should be even more effective at the OLB slot than he was on the interior. Cornerback DaRon Bland may not be able to match his nine interceptions that included five TD returns, but he is a major weapon. If Trevon Diggs returns healthy from a torn ACL, the CB duo could be special.
Best NFL Run Defense
1. San Francisco 49ers
This is one of the best tackling defenses in the NFL, and that was underscored by their ranking as the No. 3 rush defense team. The presence of Fred Warner cannot be overstated since he is a three-time All-Pro and his teammates feed off of his success.
If Talanoa Hufanga returns from his ACL tear and can get to top form by midseason, it will only solidify this unit.
2. New England Patriots
The New England defense is still a prideful unit, and their ability to stop the run (ranked 4th in fewest yards allowed) is the thing that they do best. The team’s overall lack of offense wore down the defense in 2023, but the Patriots have excellent depth on the defensive line’s interior.
Christian Barmore had 64 tackles and 13 tackles for loss, and he should be hitting his prime as he goes into his fourth season with the team. OLB Jahlani Tavai is going into a contract season and is coming off a 107-tackle season.
3. Tampa Bay Buccaneers
The Bucs did a solid job of defending the run last year, finishing fifth in that category a year ago. They still follow the lead of 34-year-old ILB Lavonte David. He is still effective as he enters his 13th season.
Safety Antoine Winfield struggled in 2022 but he bounced back with a sensational season that included 122 tackles and 6 forced fumbles last year. He will be joined by fellow safety Jordan Whitehead, who was signed as a free agent after playing with the Jets.
4. Miami Dolphins
The Dolphins showed quite a bit of improvement on defense last year, and there was quite a bit of aggressiveness shown against the run. They finished 7th in stopping the opponents’ ground game, thanks in large part to ILB David Long. He finished with a team-best 110 tackles.
The Dolphins will get even better next season if Pro Bowler Bradley Chubb comes all the way back from ACL surgery. The addition of safety Jordan Poyer from the Buffalo Bills will give this defense even more juice.
5. Cleveland Browns
If the Browns are not a dominant team in 2024, it will not be the fault of the defense. This unit excels in all areas, including against the run. The numbers say they were 11th in stopping the run in 2023, but that’s only because they were so good against the pass.
LB Jeremiah Owusu-Korahmoah excels at wrapping up ball carriers (98 tackles) and S Grant Delpit is the leader of the secondary and a huge hitter.
Best NFL Pass Defense
1. Cleveland Browns
The Browns arguably have the best defensive lineman in the NFL and the presence of Myles Garrett at defensive end means that opponents know they are up against it every time they are forced to confront the Cleveland defense. He has speed, quickness, strength, technique and a brutal mean streak on the field and finished with 14.0 sacks a year ago.
Cornerback Martin Emerson has been a great find for the organization and he is a shutdown cover man who had 4 interceptions a year ago. Delpit’s presence is as important against the pass as it is against the run.
2. New York Jets
The Jets should be able to push the Browns for the No. 1 spot against the pass. They ranked second in that category a year ago and they added Haason Reddick from the Eagles to improve the pass rush. He has had double-digit sack totals each of the last four years, and he will play on the same line for athletic DT Quinnen Williams. Reddick was looking for a new contract extension and has since asked to be traded.
Sauce Gardner is the best cornerback in the league as he combines rare size – 6-3 and 190 – with excellent cover skills. He had 11 passes defensed last year after registering 20 as a rookie in 2022. The downturn came because opponents avoided throwing in his direction.
3. Kansas City Chiefs
The Chiefs did not have their usual brilliant season on offense, but they earned the top spot in the AFC West during the regular season largely because of their defense. Usually known for their NFL offensive rankings, they ranked 4th against the pass as they had a pair of sensational pass rushers in Chris Jones and George Karlaftis. Both defensive linemen had 10.5 sacks.
Defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo will have to negotiate the loss of L’Jarius Sneed to free agency but 3rd-year CB Trent McDuffie has a nose for the ball and can create havoc from the back end.
4. Dallas Cowboys
It will be interesting to observe the impact of veteran defensive coordinator Mike Zimmer as he returns to the NFL after getting fired from the Vikings’ head coaching slot following the 2021 season. He has a brilliant pass rusher at his disposal in Micah Parsons (14.0) sacks.
The Cowboys were 5th against the pass last year as they received a freakish performance from CB DaRon Bland who registered a league-leading 9 interceptions and he returned 5 of those picks for touchdowns. That was a record-setting performance and he is clearly dangerous with the ball in his hands.
5. Buffalo Bills
The Bills have played solid defense for several years and they ranked 7th against the pass a year ago. However, the loss of safety Jordan Poyer is going to cause some level of stress.
The Bills are hoping DE DaQuan Jones can return to top form after suffering a torn pectoral muscle last year. MLB Terrel Bernard is the best at his position in the league against the pass. He had 3 interceptions and 2 passes defensed in addition to his 143 tackles last season.
Best Defense for Fantasy Football
1. N.Y. Jets
Head coach Robert Saleh and defensive coordinator Jeff Ulbrich have built a top-flight defense that should allow the Jets to rise to the top of the heap of fantasy defenses. Sauce Gardner, D.J. Reed and Michael Carter give this team exceptional cornerback play, while Quinnen Williams has the ability to dominate on the defensive line. The LB play with C.J. Mosley and Quincy Williams is also exceptional..
2. Dallas Cowboys
The Cowboys are an excellent choice for any fantasy league that prioritizes defensive play. Individual defensive players like Micah Parsons and DaRon Bland are sure to be top choices in most leagues, and defensive coordinator Mike Zimmer should be able to get the most out of this unit. If DL DeMarcus Lawrence and CB Trevon Diggs can stay healthy and productive, the results will be exceptional.
3. Cleveland Browns
The Browns have the machine-like Myles Garrett as the leader of this defense and he is one of the meanest players in the league at the snap of the ball. That is a major asset in fantasy football, as he lives to pile up the stats that help his team win. The Browns added Quinton Jefferson to line up opposite Garrett, and he should have plenty of steam left as he enters his ninth year.
The X-factor is CB Denzel Ward, who can be special but never seems to remain healthy for a full season. He has never had more than 3 interceptions in a season, but he regularly gets his hands on the football and could jump up in the interception category.
4. San Francisco 49ers
New defensive coordinator Nick Sorenson has a great opportunity on his hands, and he could put together one of the most productive defenses in the league. There’s little doubt that Nick Bosa can take over any game, and he should go from 10.5 sacks to 15 or more based on his superior first step and his relentlessness. If safety Talanoa Hufanga (ACL) and linebacker Dre Greenlaw (Achilles) can return from their injuries at a high level, this unit will be a fantasy player’s dream.
5. Pittsburgh Steelers
While arguments can be made for Myles Garrett of the Browns, Micah Parsons of the Cowboys, Maxx Crosby of the Raiders and Roquan Smith of the Ravens are the best defensive players in the NFL, no player was more productive last year than OLB T.J. Watt. He has proven to be an unstoppable force after recording 19.0 sacks, 68 tackles, 19 tackles for loss, 8 passes defensed, 4 forced fumbles and 3 fumble recoveries in 2023.
Safety Minkah Fitzpatrick had 64 tackles in just 10 games, and he could have a big year if he can stay healthy. The presence of ILB Patrick Queen – a Steelers nemesis in previous years with the Ravens – is a key addition. He is coming off a 133-tackle season.
Defensive Statistics and Metrics
There are multiple factors that go into the assessment of NFL defenses. Many of the key performance indicators are measured by statistics and metrics. However, the eye test is also important. Brilliant defensive players often stand out because they intimidate opponents – and that does not always show up in the number.
- Yards allowed is a vital factor when assessing defenses. Many coaches who lack great defensive players will often down play yards allowed and say that points allowed is the only important factor. However, teams that give up a lot of yardage but somehow find success at keeping opponents from scoring usually pay a price later in the season when the defense breaks down..
- Points allowed may be the most important factor. Keeping opponents from scoring touchdowns and keeping them to field goals has a dramatic impact. As noted above, giving up yards but limiting points will only work for so long in a particular game or season.
- Winning the turnover/takeaway battle is normally a key factor for season-long success. However, that was not the case last year as three of the top five teams in turnover differential failed to make the playoffs.
- Playing defense in the NFL is primarily about pressuring the opposing quarterback. Teams that can bat down passes at the line of scrimmage and register sacks have the best chance of winning key games. T. J. Watt of the Steelers led the league last year with 19.0 sacks, followed by Trey Hendrickson of the Bengals with 17.5, Josh Hines-Allen of the Jaguars with 17.5, Khalil Mack of the Chargers with 17.0 and Danielle Hunter of the Vikings (now with the Texans) with 16.5.
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NFL Defense Statistical Leaders in 2024
- Yards allowed, Cleveland Browns, 270.2 per game
- Passing yards allowed, Cleveland Browns, 164.7 per game
- Rushing yards allowed, Chicago Bears, 86.4 per game
- Points allowed, Baltimore Ravens, 16.5 per game
- Touchdowns allowed, Baltimore Ravens, 26
- Takeaways, Baltimore Ravens and New York Giants (tie), 31
- Sacks, Baltimore Ravens, 60.0
Key Defensive Players to Watch
T.J. Watt, Pittsburgh Steelers, Linebacker
Watt led the NFL in sacks with 19.0, and since the quarterback situation is less than ideal, similar output is demanded this season. If the Steelers are going to make a run at the AFC North, it will almost certainly be the result of the defensive dominance. Watt is the key to everything the defense does.
Watt is a six-time Pro Bowler and a four-time All-Pro. He has had a minimum of 13.0 sacks in his last six seasons with the exception of his injury-plagued 2022 season.
Myles Garrett, Cleveland Browns, Defensive End
Garrett is a nightmare matchup for every team that lines up against the Browns. He has size, strength and speed, but it is the nasty intention that is apparent on every single play that makes him special. Garrett had 14.0 sacks last year and was the Defensive Player of the Year.
The 6-4, 272-pound Garrett is a five-time Pro Bowler and three-time All-Pro who has had double-digit sacks six years in a row. He forced four fumbles last year, and that is a figure he could reach again this year.
Khalil Mack, Los Angeles Chargers, Linebacker
The Chargers were one of the most disappointing teams in the NFL last year, but that description clearly does not apply to Mack. He had a career-best 17.0 sacks last year and he also forced five fumbles and was a one-man wrecking crew.
Mack should have an excellent partner in crime in Joey Bosa. However, Bosa has been plagued by injuries throughout his career. If he can stay healthy, the Chargers have a brilliant 1-2 punch on defense.
Micah Parsons, Dallas Cowboys, Linebacker
Parsons is the best player on a talented Dallas defense, and he is coming off a season with 14.0 sacks. New defensive coordinator Mike Zimmer should bring out the best in him and he has a chance to be the best defensive player in the league.
Parsons has been in the top three for defensive player of the year in each of his seasons with the Cowboys. His incredible quickness off the snap is his best quality, but he is tough, strong and nasty to go with his speed.
Sauce Gardner, N.Y. Jets, Cornerback
Gardner is an outstanding cover man who has the confidence to take on the best receivers in the game in one-on-one situations. He has the size to cover bigger receivers and the hips to stay with the smaller and quicker pass catchers.
Gardner is a two-time All-Pro performer and he was also Rookie of the Year in 2022. He is fully established as a game-changing player who had a league-best 20 passes defensed during his first year and 11 last year.
Danielle Hunter, Houston Texans, Defensive End
When Hunter has been healthy, he has been a game-changing player. After injury-plagued seasons in 2020 and 2021, he was able to play each of the last two years for the Vikings. He is coming off a 16.5-sack season, and there is an unstoppable quality to his game when he gets hot.
Hunter is one of the most intimidating players in the NFL, and he is a four-time Pro Bowl performer. In addition to his sack total, he led the NFL with 23 tackles for loss.
Justin Madubuike, Baltimore Ravens, Defensive Tackle
Madubuike is a dominant player from the defensive tackle spot, and that gives the Ravens a game-changing player. He had 13.0 sacks last year and the Ravens rewarded him with a four-year, $98 million contract.
Madubuike plays with tremendous self-confidence and he can wreck the opponent’s backfield with his strength, quickness and superior instincts. He was a good-but-not-great player prior to last season, but now he is clearly elite.
Geno Stone, Cincinnati Bengals, Safety
After four seasons with the Ravens, Stone moves to the Bengals and he represents a tremendous upgrade for the Cincinnati secondary. He had seven interceptions a year ago, and he is also a big hitter from either the free or strong safety position.
Stone had just one interception in his career prior to last year’s explosive showing. He appears to be hitting his prime and the Bengals will clearly be the beneficiary. In addition to his interception total, he had a career-best 68 tackles.
Roquan Smith, Baltimore Ravens, Linebacker
Smith is clearly one of the best tacklers in the league.He was the best defensive player for the Chicago Bears and he is clearly an elite player and leader on the Ravens. He is coming off a remarkable season that included 158 tackles and 8 passes defensed. Smith is a two-time Pro Bowler and a two-time first-team All-Pro.
Maxx Crosby, Las Vegas Raiders, Defensive End
When it comes to natural ability, Crosby does not have to take a back seat to many of his competitors. He is coming off a 14.5-sack season and he does it with passion and effort on every play. Suddenly, the Raiders have given Crosby some help by signing free agent defensive tackle Christian Wilkins. Instead of concentrating on Crosby, opponents must also contend with another potentially dominant defensive lineman in Wilkins.
Josh Hines-Allen, Jacksonville Jaguars, Defensive End
Known as the “other” Josh Allen for the first five years of his career because of the presence of the Buffalo Bills quarterback with the same name, he is now Josh Hines-Allen. No matter what his name is, he is a brilliant pass rusher who has the ability to take over a game. He did so last year with 17.5 sacks for the Jaguars.
There is an unstoppable characteristic to Hines-Allen’s game as he had 66 tackles and 33 quarterback hits in addition to his sack total. The presence of a healthy Trevor Lawrence at quarterback and Hines-Allen at defensive end could help the Jaguars to have a banner season.
How did free agency impact the NFL defense rankings for 2024?
- The Houston Texans had a brilliant 2023 season largely because of the play of rookie quarterback C.J. Stroud and a group of receivers who helped the team light up the scoreboard. The Texans made a huge free-agent signing in Danielle Hunter from the Minnesota Vikings. He had 16.5 sacks last year and is a transformative type of player who could turn the Texans into a much-improved defensive team
- The Steelers figure to be stronger on the defensive side of the ball than they are on offense, and they have a brilliant player in T.J. Watt. He will be joined by linebacker Patrick Queen, who comes over from the Ravens.
- The Ravens also lost Geno Stone to the Bengals. Stone is coming off his best season with the Ravens, and he should help the division rivals show quite a bit of improvement in 2024.
- The Raiders flashed their defensive strength in 2023, but they were not consistent in that area and ranked 15th in yards allowed. The addition of DT Christian Wilkins to play on the same line with Maxx Crosby could allow the Raiders to make a significant jump up the defensive rankings.
To NFL Defense Draft Picks
- Dallas Turner, Minnesota Vikings, Edge
- Laiatu Latu, Indianapolis Colts, Defensive End
- Quinyon Mitchell, Philadelphia Eagles, Cornerback
- Chop Robinson, Miami Dolphins, Linebacker
- Terrion Arnold, Detroit Lions, Cornerback
- Jared Verse. Los Angeles Rams, Linebacker
- Edgerrin Cooper, Green Bay Packers, Linebacker
- Byron Murphy, Seattle Seahawks, Defensive Tackle
- Cooper DeJean, Philadelphia Eagles, Cornerback
- Cole Bishop, Buffalo Bills, Safety
1985 Chicago Bears
The Bears have largely been one of the most disappointing teams in the NFL over the last 78 years. After winning their seventh NFL championship in 1946, they have won only two titles since then. The 1963 NFL champion Bears were a solid defensive team that had little in the way of offense. They won the title largely because Vince Lombardi’s Green Bay Packers had a disappointing year.
The 1985 Bears were a completely different story. Under head coach Mike Ditka and defensive coordinator Buddy Ryan, they arguably had the best defense the game has ever seen. The numbers were spectacular as they scored 456 points and gave up just 198. They held 7 regular-season opponents to single digits and they shut out both the New York Giants and Los Angeles Rams in the postseason.
The Bears played a scheme devised by Ryan known as the 46 defense, named after former Bears defensive back Doug Plank. The defense was an all-out attack on the opposing backfield. Not only did Chicago’s pass rushers outnumber the blockers that the opponent employed, the Bears had superior personnel and generally won nearly all one-on-one battles.
There were multiple superstars, but the two Bears at the heart of the defense were DL Dan Hampton and DT Steve McMichael. Both are Hall of Famers who understood technique and added incredible skill. However, both were simply relentless every time the ball was snapped and they inflicted massive punishment on an every-game basis.
DE Richard Dent was a pass rusher supreme, while rookie DT William “The Refrigerator” Perry was a huge man with shocking quickness for his size. He became something of a cultural touchstone for his play and well-liked demeanor
The linebacking crew was among the best the sport has ever seen. Outside linebackers Wilber Marshall and Otis Wilson had overwhelming speed and combined that with a hunger to cause mayhem. MLB Mike Singletary was the leader and captain of the unit, calling out Ryan’s schemes with intensity and a demanding nature.
Safety Gary Fencik and CB Leslie Frazier were the best defensive backs. Fencik, a Yale graduate, was extremely physical while Frazier was a skilled cover man. The 1985 Bears intimidated opponents and played with a swagger that the game has rarely seen. They finished their brilliant season with a memorable 46-10 triumph over the New England Patriots in Super Bowl XX.
2000 Baltimore Ravens
The Ravens were very similar to the ‘85 Bears because they were an angry, hard-hitting unit that destroyed multiple opponents. The Ravens were deficient on offense – at one time going four games without an offensive touchdown – but the defense didn’t care. The Ravens held seven regular-season opponents to single-digit scores and did that twice more in the postseason.
Unlike Ryan of the Bears, defensive coordinator Marvin Lewis was a bit more cerebral and was not the type to coach Baltimore players to intimidate opponents. He did not have to, because they did that on their own. However, Marvin Lewis devised formations and schemes that allowed the talented Ravens to be at their best.
MLB Ray Lewis was a tough, violent and relentless leader who made big plays and had bad intentions on the field. He was joined by DTs Sam Adams and Tony Siragus along with LBs Jamie Sharper and Peter Boulware. The linebacking crew was fast and aggressive, while the defensive tackles completely shut down the opposing running game.
The Ravens secondary did not have to take a back seat to any other teams. CBs Chris McAlister and Duane Starks combined for 10 interceptions, while FS Rod Woodson was among the best at his position the game has ever seen.
The Baltimore defense was among the best ever, and their crowning glory came when they defeated the New York Giants 34-7 in Super Bowl XXXV.
1986 New York Giants
The Giants had an excellent defense in 1985, but they were not quite up to the standards of the Bears that season. Chicago blanked the Giants in the first round of the playoffs, and that defeat lit a fuse under the Giants for the ‘86 season.
Head coach Bill Parcells had an overpowering defense that year led by OLB Lawrence Taylor, who may have been the most intimidating defensive player in NFL history. That’s a huge claim considering the number of brilliant players in the Hall of Fame, but if Taylor is not the answer, he is clearly in the top 5. He had 20.5 sacks in the 1986 season. The Giants held five opponents to single digits in the regular season and two more in the postseason.
In addition to Taylor, the Giants had DEs Leonard Marshall and George Martin in their front four. OLB Carl Banks might have been the centerpiece of the defense if it were not for Taylor, and veteran Harry Carson manned one of the ILB slots and made sure all his teammates were positioned correctly. Defensive backs Perry Williams and Terry Kinard paced the secondary with four interceptions each. The Giants won Super Bowl XXI by beating the Broncos, 39-20.
1975 Pittsburgh Steelers
The Steelers won four Super Bowls in a six-year span in the 1970s, and their ‘75 team was the best of their brilliant defensive teams. The Steelers held seven opponents to single digits in the regular season, and they had a defense that was led by some of the greatest players the game has ever seen. Mean Joe Greene, L.C. Greenwood and Dwight White helped form one of the greatest defensive lines of all-time.
The linebacking unit of Jack Ham, Jack Lambert and Andy Russel were spectacular. Cornerback Mel Blount may be the best combination cover man and tackler ever at his position. He had 11 interceptions in the '75 season. SS Mike Wagner was also sensational with four interceptions and three fumble recoveries. The Steelers earned their second consecutive championship when they beat Roger Staubach and an upset-minded Dallas Cowboys team by a 21-17 score in Super Bowl X.
1972 Miami Dolphins
The ‘72 Dolphins were coached by Don Shula and they are the only team in NFL history to go undefeated for a full season and win the Super Bowl. Despite their perfect record, the Dolphins did not have legendary superstars on either side of the ball. Instead, they relied on team play and brilliant strategy. The Dolphins registered three shutouts during the regular season, and the “No Name” defense consistently made clutch plays that led to victories.
Perhaps the most well-known player on the defense was MLB Nick Buoniconti, who was an excellent player with the Patriots before he raised his level to Hall of Fame player with the Dolphins. He called defensive signals, but it was defensive tackle Manny Fernandez who destroyed plays in the offensive backfield. DEs Vern Den Herder and Bill Stanfill consistently pressured opposing quarterbacks.
FS Jake Scott and SS Dick Anderson formed one of the best safety duos in NFL history. Both were smart, tough and instinctive playmakers. The Dolphins came as close to playing mistake-free football as any team in NFL history. They earned their first championship by beating George Allen’s Washington Redskins 14-7 in Super Bowl VII..
Expert Opinions and Predictions
- Jamey Eisenberg, CBS Sports, Senior Fantasy Writer
- New York Jets, No. 1 fantasy defense
- Baltimore Ravens, No. 2 fantasy defense
- Dave Richard, CBS Sports, Senior Fantasy Writer.
- Dallas Cowboys, No. 1 fantasy defense
- Cleveland Browns, No. 2 fantasy defense
- Robert Mays, The Athletic
- Cleveland Browns and New York Jets have the top two defenses in the NFL. Jets run defense may be somewhat vulnerable.
- Derrik Klassen, 33rd Team
- Cleveland Browns and Baltimore Ravens have the top two defenses in the NFL.
- Andy Vasquez, Star-Ledger
- Sauce Gardner is a true leader for Jets
- Ian Rapoport, NFL.com
- Key NFL preseason developments
A Final Look at the Best NFL Defense Rankings
There is no overstating the importance of defense in the NFL. More than 75% of what you see and read about the NFL is usually about the offense in general and quarterbacks in particular, so defenses tend to get overlooked. Paying attention to defense will give fans and all NFL observers more depth of knowledge about the NFL than those concentrating on quarterback play.
It’s also about much more than the numbers. Great NFL defenses and NFL defensive players will have impressive statistics, but it is about the way they can lead their teammates. The best players demonstrate an indomitable presence on the field and in the locker room that scream leadership to their teammates. Players like T.J. Watt of the Steelers, Myles Garrett of the Browns and Roquan Smith of the Ravens have those characteristics and their teammates naturally follow.
Many of our rankings are based on statistical achievement and past performances. However, we also offer predictions for the upcoming 2024 season. While we have some insight and experience, we can’t know how the season will play out. We want to know what you think and understand your perspective.
Best NFL Defense Rankings Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How are NFL defense rankings determined?
There are multiple ways to measure NFL defenses. The first is fairly obvious and it is the number of points the defense allows. A team has to be able to keep opponents out of the end zone. A defense must be able to stop opponents when it gets inside the red zone. This can lead to victories and championships.
Defensive teams are also ranked by yards allowed. There are some observers that will say that a bend-but-don’t-break defense is very effective as long as it keeps opponents from scoring touchdowns. Those observers may be right – for a game or two. However, in the long run, a team that gives up yardage will eventually start giving up big plays and a substantial number of points.
This is particularly true when that defense starts playing elite opponents. Top offensive coordinators and quarterbacks can find weaknesses, diagnose them and exploit defensive shortcomings and turn them into big plays. A defense that gives up yards to a struggling team like the Washington Commanders, for example, but keeps them out of the endzone may give up touchdowns when facing more explosive teams like the Philadelphia Eagles or San Francisco 49ers.
Takeaways by the defense also provide vital ranking information. A team that concentrates on forcing turnovers due to interceptions or forced fumbles will always have a chance to get back in a game or dominate from the start. When looking for teams at the top of the takeaway/turnover table, concentrate on those leading in interceptions. Forcing fumbles can be a more random occurrence. A team that forces a lot of fumbles one season may not be as successful in this area in the following year.
What are the most important defensive stats?
The most important defensive stats follow in this order:
- Points allowed
- Passing yards allowed
- Rushing yards allowed
- Takeaways
- Sacks
Who has the Best Run Defense in the NFL?
The Chicago Bears gave up the fewest rushing yards per game (86.4 yards per game) in the NFL last season, but that may have had to do with the team being quite vulnerable for the majority of the season against the pass. The San Francisco 49ers (89.7 yards per game) had the best run defense overall in the NFL last year and have a chance to dominate in 2024.
Who has the Worst Run Defense in the NFL?
The Arizona Cardinals were weak against the run last year and ranked 32nd in that category (143.2 yards per game). They struggled to stop opponents from turning short-yardage plays into first downs and they gave up too many big plays.
Which NFL Teams Run a 3-4 Defense?
These teams have used the 3-4 defense as their primary formation:
Arizona Cardinals, Atlanta Falcons, Baltimore Ravens, Denver Broncos, Green Bay Packers, Jacksonville Jaguars, Los Angeles Chargers, Los Angeles Rams, Miami Dolphins, Minnesota Vikings, New England Patriots, New York Giants, Pittsburgh Steelers, Seattle Seahawks, Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Tennessee Titans.
Who has the Best Pass Defense in the NFL?
The Cleveland Browns (164.7 yards per game) and the New York Jets (168.3 YPG) gave up the fewest amount of yards through the air in 2023, and they both should be strong in 2024.
Who has the Worst Pass Defense in the NFL 2023?
The Washington Commanders ranked last, giving up 262.7 passing yards per game.
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