In the modern era of the NFL, defensive performance has gone down while offensive performance has gone up. Rules could play a factor in this by making it hard to defend a pass catcher, or making it harder to hit a Quarterback without a 15 yard penalty. Nevertheless, having an elite level defense is a luxury. Let’s take a look at those elite defenses and the stars who are on them.
1. San Francisco 49ers
San Francisco is mainly talked about for their Kyle Shanahan scheme, or their electric play makers like Deebo Samuel, Christian McCaffrey and Brandon Aiyuk. But one of the big reasons they have made it back to the Super Bowl is the star studded defense.
A group led by Nick Bosa and Fred Warner has measured at the top of the league in nearly every important defensive statistic. With 48 sacks last year ranking 7th this group also has multiple playmakers in the secondary like Talanoa Hufanga. The combination of amazing scheme and even better talent makes this group the best in the league.
2. New York Jets
The Jets have had a good group for years but this one in particular could be great. Losing Bryce Huff hurts the pass rush but with Jermaine Johnson’s improvement and the secondary being at the top of the league, I wouldn’t be too worried. The main guys leading this defensive squad is cornerbacks D.J. Reed and Sauce Gardner.
3. Kansas City Chiefs
The reigning Super Bowl champions are once again projected to have an elite defense. Losing L’Jarius Sneed is a blow, but Trent McDuffie and company is more than enough to handle it. Not to mention Chris Jones was resigned and is more ready than ever to get to work.
This unit was dominant last year, losing Willie Gay Jr. and Sneed might lead to some growing pains. As long as Chris Jones and Trent Mcduffie remain on the field, this unit should be fine.
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