Edge Rushers to Watch
The performance of Yannick Ngakoue, unfortunately, saw a downturn last season. This comes after an impressive streak of seven seasons where he consistently registered 8+ sacks. Despite the recent dip, his track record suggests he could be a valuable asset to teams looking for experienced edge rushers.
On the other hand, Emmanuel Ogbah demonstrated his prowess on the field with a remarkable 13.9% pressure rate last season. Such statistics make Ogbah an attractive option for teams seeking to bolster their defensive lineup.
Carl Lawson is another name to watch, especially after bouncing back from an Achilles tear. Last season, he managed to amass 49 pressures and 7.0 sacks, highlighting his resilience and capability to impact games despite significant setbacks.
Interior Defensive Linemen to Keep an Eye On
Veteran Calais Campbell continues to impress, having delivered 42 pressures and maintained a 10.8% pressure rate in the last season. His consistency and ability to disrupt the opposition's play make him a valuable target for teams needing strength in the interior defensive line.
Hassan Ridgeway's potential contribution was unfortunately curtailed after just three games due to an early end to his season. Given his previous performances, Ridgeway could be a sleeper pick for teams willing to bet on his full recovery and return to form.
Bryan Mone's absence in the entire 2023 season was felt deeply, given the injuries that sidelined him. His return to fitness could spark interest from several teams looking for a stalwart defensive presence.
Off-Ball Linebackers on the Radar
Zach Cunningham's ability to notch 85 tackles in just 13 games last season showcases his effectiveness on the field. Such a performance earmarks him as a reliable off-ball linebacker, capable of elevating a team's defensive capabilities.
The duo of Kwon Alexander and Xavier Woods also deserves mention, given their contributions not just in tackling but also in special teams. Their versatility makes them valuable assets, particularly for teams aiming to strengthen their linebacker corps and special teams simultaneously.
Cornerbacks Who Can Shift the Momentum
Xavien Howard has solidified his reputation as a game-changer in the defensive backfield, with an impressive tally of 23 interceptions over four seasons. His ability to turn games with critical plays makes him a coveted player in the market.
Both Stephon Gilmore and Steven Nelson delivered strong performances last season, establishing themselves as reliable cornerbacks. Teams in need of experienced and steady hands in their secondary would do well to consider them.
Safeties Available for Acquisition
Justin Simmons is among the top safeties still available, having made 70 tackles and three interceptions last season. Simmons' knack for being in the right place at the right time to disrupt the opposition's plays makes him an outstanding candidate for teams seeking to shore up their secondary.
Despite recent injuries, both Micah Hyde and Jamal Adams have shown they can still be impactful on the field. Their ability to contribute significantly when fit could make them intriguing options for teams willing to invest in their recovery and subsequent contribution to the game.
In conclusion, the player market is replete with talent across various defensive positions. From edge rushers to safeties, the availability of seasoned veterans and promising talents offers teams ample opportunity to bolster their defenses ahead of the next season. With strategic acquisitions, teams can transform their defensive units into formidable forces capable of altering the course of games.