By Jeff Paur
Senior Fantasy Writer
Realtime Fantasy Sports
Def / STs:The big thing with the defense/special teams position is knowing your rules. Some leagues really reward defenses for sacks, turnovers and points allowed while others just give points for touchdowns scored by your defense/special teams. This is quite a different approach, so before ranking or picking a defense during your draft, know what your league favors. Your rules will dictate the value the position in your league.
With that said, the Steelers are our top selection this season. They are coming off a dominant season defensively, limiting yards, racking up sacks and causing turnovers. After them, we have several solid choices, though. The Eagles, Giants, Vikings and Jets should be among the top fantasy defense before the season is over. You can't go wrong with any of them. And mainstays like the Ravens, Bucs and Patriots remain solid choices, but might not provide as much upside as some other options. This just goes to show you don't always have to stay with the proven commodities at this position.
And there are a couple different approaches to taking a defense. If you want to use a mid-round pick on a defense/special teams, take the Eagles, Steelers or whoever you have rated high. But if you want to wait until the later rounds, grab two defenses you think you can platoon based on matchups. This is a good strategy to use if you want to wait a while before taking a defense and use that mid-round pick on another position. Getting two teams like the Redskins and Dolphins could do just as well as taking the Eagles with a higher pick. It is just something to think about heading into your draft. Updated: 06/29/09 | |
| # 1 | Pittsburgh Steelers (Def) $3 | | Pittsburgh | | | Player News:
The Steelers had a dominate defense last season, ranking first overall (second against the rush, first against the pass). Pittsburgh also recorded 51 sacks and had 20 interceptions. This unit did it all last season. James Harrison is one of the premier linebackers in the league. And safety Troy Polamalu is great in run support and making plays in the secondary. The Steelers should once again be a top defensive team with these two anchors leading the way. If the Steelers have a weakness, it is the return game. They got little last season in both the punt and kick return games. Rookie Mike Wallace could give the return game a boost. Wallace is a top playmaker that should get his chances on special teams.
Fantasy Outlook:
A top-five fantasy unit. The Steelers are as good as it gets, causing turnovers and getting after the quarterback. They won't do much with special teams, but you can overlook that when they are getting 50-plus sacks and holding opponents to low yardage and point totals. | | # 2 | Philadelphia Eagles (Def) $3 | | Philadelphia | | | Player News:
The Eagles boasted the top defense in many fantasy leagues last season. They had 29 turnovers, 48 sacks and scored seven defensive/special teams touchdowns. This unit did it all last season. And much of the core unit of this defense returns this season. Trent Cole is the top rusher off the end, but the Eagles create pressure will many of their options because of all the blitzes they throw at the opposition. The Eagles secondary can shutdown an opposition with Asante Samuel and Sheldon Brown as their starting corners. And the addition of Sean Jones at safety bolsters the pass defense even more. Philly also does a good job of stuffing the run with tackles Brodrick Bunkley and Mike Patterson clogging up the middle. The Eagles special teams do a great job on returns. Quintin Demps averaged over 25 yards per kick return and scored a touchdown. And DeSean Jackson held down the punt return duties, averaging 8.8 yards per kick while scoring a touchdown. And this unit could get even better with Jeremy Maclin in the mix. Maclin was an electric return man in college and should get his chances on punt and kick returns for the Eagles this season.
Fantasy Outlook: 
The Eagles are an elite fantasy defense. They do a good job of pressuring the quarterback and causing turnovers. Expect them to be near the top of the league in both categories this season. The Eagles also limit yards and points, and their return game is top notch. They should be on of the first three defenses off the board come draft day. | | # 3 | New York Giants (Def) $2 | | New York Giants | | | Player News:
The Giants were solid defensively last season, but probably not as good as expected. They recorded 42 sacks, but the loss of Osi Umenyiora knocked down their total some. Umenyiora should be healthy for the start of this season, though. Pair him with Justin Tuck and you have one of the best one-two pass rushers in the game. Plus, the Giants have an emerging secondary with Aaron Ross and Corey Webster becoming shutdown corners. Ahmad Bradshaw and Domenik Hixon give the Giants special teams a boost. Both do a better than average job on punt and kick returns.
Fantasy Outlook:
The Giants sack total should be near 50 this season, which makes them a top-five defense. The special teams also is better than average and the secondary can make plays, grabbing 17 interceptions last season. Giants should be one of the first defense/special teams off the board this season. | | # 4 | Minnesota Vikings (Def) $2 | | Minnesota | | | Player News:
The Vikings continue to be a shutdown rush defense. Tackles Pat and Kevin Williams form a wall, which is hard to penetrate for opposing running backs. Minnesota also really improved their pass rush last season, totaling 45 sacks. This was mainly due to the addition of Jared Allen, one of the premier pass rushers in the game. The secondary was a bit of an issue for the Vikings, though. They had just 12 interceptions and ranked 18th against the pass. If you want to beat the Vikings, it is through the air. The Vikings are an opportunistic defense/special teams unit. Minnesota scored four touchdowns and always seem to be near the top of the league in defense/special teams touchdowns. The return game is just so-so with Bernard Berrian the top threat to break a big play on punt returns. Rookie Percy Harvin could give this unit a lift this year, though.
Fantasy Outlook:
The Vikes are a solid fantasy defense. They will limit points and yards, and are usually good for a few scores per season. And their sack total will be among the best in the league as long as Allen is around. Consider them a top-five fantasy defense/special teams. | | # 5 | Baltimore Ravens (Def) $2 | | Baltimore | | | Player News:
The Ravens defense continues to be one of the top in all of football. The ranked second in overall defense last season and allowed just 15 points per game. They also scored six defensive touchdowns and led the league in interceptions with 26. Ed Reed is getting older, but continues to make a ton of plays in the secondary and is a threat to score every time he gets the ball. Ray Lewis is another aging defensive player, but Lewis managed 117 tackles last season, showing he isn't slowing down just yet. The Ravens did lose a key defensive member in Bart Scott, though, so this could set back the unit a bit. If the Ravens have a flaw defensively, it is getting after the quarterback. They are just middle of the pack with Terrell Suggs serving as the top pass rusher. The special teams aren't outstanding, but better than average. Yamon Figurs gives the Ravens a solid return man. He is usually near the top of the league in both kick and punt returns. He has big-time speed and a few return scores under his belt.
Fantasy Outlook:
The loss of Scott stings, but this defense remains one of the top in all of fantasy football. They are tough to run and pass against, limiting points and yards. The Ravens also do a good job of making big plays and causing turnovers. Expect more of the same from this unit. | | # 6 | New York Jets (Def) $2 | | New York Jets | | | Player News:
The Jets defense was solid last season and could improve even more with defensive minded coach Rex Ryan now at the helm. Ryan was a highly productive coach for the Ravens defense the last several seasons. He should dial up the pressure for the Jets, who could improve on last season's 40 sacks. The Jets don't have a dominant pass rusher, but a lot of capable options. And the addition of linebacker Bart Scott gives this unit another top playmaker on the defensive side of the ball. Scott should be the anchor of the defense for years to come. Kerry Rhodes is the top playmaker in the secondary. Rhodes is a top safety capable of breaking up the run or pass. He just makes plays. The Jets also added top cover corner Lito Sheppard during the offseason, giving them another playmaker in the secondary. Leon Washington gives the Jets a big-time threat on special teams. He had a kick return touchdown last season and averaged 25.6 yards per kick return. Washington is an electric return man with big-play ability.
Fantasy Outlook: 
The Jets have become a top fantasy defense/special team. They have a lot of sack potential, especially with Scott now on board. And the secondary is more than capable of shutting down a defense with Rhodes, Sheppard and Darrelle Revis causing havoc. And the return game makes this unit a elite option for fantasy teams. | | # 7 | Tennessee Titans (Def) $2 | | Tennessee | | | Player News:
The Titans have a huge hole to fill with the loss of tackle Albert Haynesworth. He was the heart and soul of their top defense last season. A dropoff in production defensively wouldn't be a surprise with Haynesworth gone. But the Titans still have some talent on the defensive side of the ball. Linebacker Keith Bulluck is a top playmaker that becomes the anchor of the Titans defense. Tackles Tony Brown and Jovan Haye are better than average at the position and should do well in stuffing the run and getting some pressure on the quarterback. Cornerback Cortland Finnegan seems to get better and better every season, turning into a legit No. 1 cornerback. Veteran Nick Harper is the starter opposite Finnegan and more than holds his own in pass coverage. Michael Griffin has become a ball hawk in the secondary, grabbing seven interceptions last season, giving the Titans another weapon defensively. The Titans will be looking for someone to take over the return duties with Chris Carr gone. Rookie Kenny Britt or Chris Davis could be in the mix.
Fantasy Outlook:
The loss of Haynesworth makes this a platoon unit more than a starter. They'll get some sacks and turnovers but won't be among the league leaders. Tennessee also will do a solid job of limiting points and yards most weeks. | | # 8 | Tampa Bay Buccaneers (Def) $1 | | Tampa Bay | | | Player News:
The Bucs defense continues to play at a high level, especially the secondary. The Bucs ranked ninth overall defensively, but the pass defense notched 22 interceptions. Tampa has an emerging star in corner Aqib Talib, but still have shutdown corner Ronde Barber to pair with Talib. This tandem is as good as any in the league. Linebacker Barrett Ruud has become a star, getting 137 tackles and three sacks last season. If the Bucs have a weakness defensively, it is pressuring the quarterback. Gaines Adams led the team with six and a half sacks last season, so they'll need to get some more production from Adams and Greg White at the end spots. Neither are outstanding pass rushers, though. The Bucs seem to have found an answer on special teams. Clifton Smith handled both the punt and kick return duties last season and did well, scoring two return touchdowns.
Fantasy Outlook:
The Bucs have an above-average defense and a newfound return game makes this unit starter worthy for fantasy teams. Don't expect many sacks, but their secondary can create turnovers and make big plays. Plus, their special teams are improving. | | # 9 | Arizona Cardinals (Def) $1 | | Arizona | | | Player News:
The Cardinals defense didn't finish with a great ranking, but played at a high level near the end of the season, which helped fuel the Cardinals Super Bowl run. Arizona was an opportunistic defense, getting 13 interceptions and 17 fumble recoveries. This made up for a lot of the yards and points they allowed throughout the season. The secondary made plays, but could get better with the addition of Bryant McFadden to start alongside Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie. And Adrian Wilson remains a top safety, doing well in run support and coverage. The secondary has a lot of potential. The Cardinals do a decent job of pressuring the quarterback with a lot of different options. They aren't afraid to blitz the quarterback. Steve Breaston should get both the punt and kick return duties with J.J. Arrington gone. Breaston is a better receiver than return man, but does an average job as a return specialist.
Fantasy Outlook:
The Cardinals are a decent platoon team. Their secondary has some potential and they'll get some sacks. But we wouldn't use them against a great offensive team. Arizona is capable of allowing some big point and yardage totals. | | # 10 | Dallas Cowboys (Def) $1 | | Dallas | | | Player News:
The Cowboys defense might have allowed a few more points than normal last season (23 points per game), but they led the league in sacks (59). DeMarcus Ware has become one of the top pass rushers in the game and should be for years to come. The entire unit did a great job getting after the passer, which was needed since the secondary disappointed (eight interceptions). The secondary didn't make many improvements during the offseason, so this could be a concern once again this season. The special teams could get a boost with a healthy Felix Jones back. He scored a return touchdown in his limited action last season.
Fantasy Outlook:
A top-ten fantasy defense as long as Ware is around. This unit will get a ton of sacks. And a healthy Jones gives them good TD potential in the return game. Now if they could just start making some plays in the secondary, the Cowboys might be the best fantasy defense in the game. | | # 11 | New England Patriots (Def) $1 | | New England | | | Player News:
The Patriots ranked 10th defensively last season, but weren't much of a factor for fantasy teams. They had just one defensive/special teams touchdown, 31 sacks and 14 interceptions. Those totals put them in the middle of the pack fantasy wise. The Patriots should be able to create more turnovers in the secondary, though, with the additions for Shawn Springs and Leigh Bodden. Linebacker Jerod Mayo is a star in the making and could have a big season this year. The Patriots linebackers are top notch with Mayo, Tedy Bruschi and Adalius Thomas leading the way. This defense should once again limit points and yards this season. The Patriots had just one special teams touchdown last season, but their return game is pretty good. Wes Welker and Ellis Hobbs are two of the better return men in the game, giving the Patriots a pretty good chance to break a big play every time they are on the field. Plus, rookie Brandon Tate could get his chances as a return man.
Fantasy Outlook:
The Patriots defense is always solid and this year should be no different. Expect a spike in sacks and interceptions, but don't overvalue this unit based on their name. New Englad is a solid No. 1 for fantasy team, but not an elite unit. | | # 12 | Indianapolis Colts (Def) $1 | | Indianapolis | | | Player News:
The Colts offense gets most of the press, but their defense isn't too shabby. The Colts ranked 12th defensively and allowed just 18.6 points per game. Indy always does a good job of causing turnovers and last year was no exception, getting 15 interceptions and 11 fumble recoveries. The Colts turned four of those turnovers into touchdowns. Their sack totals were down last season (31), but could go back up with Dwight Freeney and Raheem Brock starting at defensive end. Both do a great job of getting after the quarterback. Bob Sanders might be the top safety in the game. When he is healthy and playing, this defense is as good as any in the game. Sanders supports the run well and causes all sorts of problems in coverage, making the Colts a good team against the pass. The Colts continue to search for a return man on special teams. Their punt team really struggled last season and the kickoff team wasn't much better. Pierre Garcon is likely to get the first shot at return duties.
Fantasy Outlook:
The Colts remain a top-10 fantasy defense. They do a pretty good job of causing turnovers, but should pile up the sacks and limit yards for the most part. The special teams don't bring much to the table for fantasy teams, though. | | # 13 | San Diego Chargers (Def) | | San Diego | | | Player News:
The Chargers defense disappointed last season, ranking near the bottom of the league in nearly every defensive category. But the loss of Shawne Merriman before the season was huge. He gives the Chargers a top playmaker and rusher of the passer. The Chargers had just 28 sacks, which ranked near the bottom of the league. The return of Merriman should help, though, and Luis Castillo gives the Chargers a good push up the middle. Their secondary is fairly solid with Quentin Jammer and Antonio Cromartie giving the team a good one-two punch. Cromartie is capable of making a huge play every time a ball goes up in the air. And Darren Sproles gives the Chargers one of the most dynamic return men in the game. Cromartie also can be an asset on special teams.
Fantasy Outlook:
The Chargers should rebound after an awful season. They have good touchdown and sack potential. Consider them a borderline No. 1 defense for fantasy teams. San Diego had struggles stopping teams last year, though, so don't be surprised if they allow high yardage and point totals. Their haven't been many changes personnel wise. | | # 14 | Chicago Bears (Def) | | Chicago | | | Player News:
The Bears defense once again struggled last season, ranking 21st overall. The only thing that saved this unit was six defense/special teams touchdowns. But besides that, the Bears did little well last season. They had just 28 sacks, which was a disappointing, and allowed 22 points per game. The defense was hit by some injuries, though, which didn't help matters. A healthy Brian Urlacher for a full season would be a big boost for the Bears. The secondary does do a good job of making plays, a staple of any Lovie Smith defense. They had 22 interceptions, ranking near the top of the lead. The Bears always do a good job of causing turnovers. Devin Hester didn't have a return touchdown last season, but remains one of the best in the game. He is a home run threat every time the ball is in his hands. And Danieal Manning was very good on kick returns last season, scoring a touchdown while averaging just less than 30 yards per return.
Fantasy Outlook:
Even though they won't limit the yards and points as some of the top defenses in the game, the Bears still have a solid fantasy defense. They create turnovers and have a great return game. The Bears are capable of some big point totals for fantasy teams and should remain around a top 10 defense/special teams. | | # 15 | Miami Dolphins (Def) | | Miami | | | Player News:
The Dolphins defense played much better last season. They still allowed some big games, but were more consistent for most of the season. Miami totaled 39 sacks and collected 18 interceptions. Joey Porter was a big factor the Dolphins resurgence, though, getting 17.5 sacks. The Dolphins have some playmakers on the defensive side of the ball in linebacker Channing Crowder and cornerback Will Allen. This defense should get better their second year in the defensive system. Ted Ginn Jr. hasn't excelled in the return game as of yet, but is a talented player with big-play ability. He is a home run threat for the Dolphins return game. And Devone Bess proved to be a capable punt returner, averaging 11 yards per return.
Fantasy Outlook:
Don't consider them an every-week starter, but the Dolphins are a good platoon team. Miami has a lot of sack potential and do a good job of causing turnovers. Plus, the return game is solid with Ginn around. | | # 16 | Green Bay Packers (Def) | | Green Bay | | | Player News:
Green Bay ranked just 20th defensively, but managed a whooping nine defensive/special teams touchdowns. The Packers were a big play defense, getting 22 interceptions and six fumble recoveries. Their pass rush was lacking, though, and Green Bay struggled stopping the run all season long. The Packers hoped to address those deficiencies during the draft, taking tackle B.J. Raji and linebacker Clay Matthews. Both players are instant upgrades defensively and should provide this unit a lift. Aaron Kampman is the top pass rusher for the Packers off the end and one of the elite rushers in the game, but he needs some help. The Packers secondary is solid. Charles Woodson and Al Harris are getting older, but still do well in coverage and are capable of making big plays. Will Blackmon is the top return man for the Packers. He had two return scores last season and is an above average returner.
Fantasy Outlook:
Don't count on the Packers getting nine touchdowns again, but they have some potential. Their sack totals should increase and the secondary has upside for turnovers. The Packers will allow some yards and points, though, which hurt their value some. Consider them a marginal every-week starter for fantasy teams. | | # 17 | Washington Redskins (Def) | | Washington | | | Player News:
The Redskins defense was fourth overall defensively, but didn't do much for fantasy teams. They had just one defensive/special teams touchdown, 24 sacks and 13 interceptions. Washington limited points and yards, but did little else. They are capable of improving on last season, though, with the Albert Haynesworth on board. Haynesworth is a dominant defensive player that makes everyone around him better. The Redskins could be very hard to run on this season. Their secondary is above average with DeAngelo Hall, Carlos Rogers and Fred Smoot as the top three corners. These guys are capable of shutting down an opposing passing game as long as the Redskins are getting some pressure on the quarterback. The Redskins special teams are about average. Rock Cartwright and Antwaan Randle El should the return duties and do a pretty good job.
Fantasy Outlook:
The addition of Haynesworth makes the Redskins a good sleeper defense. They could really limit points and yards with this unit. And the sack potential goes up with Haynesworth drawing a lot of attention in the middle. Consider them a platoon option but could be an every-week starter before the end of the season. | | # 18 | Carolina Panthers (Def) | | Carolina | | | Player News:
The Panthers defense was a disappointment last season, ranking 18th and allowing over 20 points per game. Carolina struggled a little more against the run than the pass, allowing 120 yards per game. Tackles Maake Kemoeatu and Damione Lewis need to do a better job of stuffing the middle. Linebacker Jon Beason is an emerging star, though, and does a good job in run defense and pass coverage. Julius Pepper isn't great in run support, but remains one of the top pass rushers in the game. The Panthers have a shutdown corner in Chris Gamble, but need Richard Marshall or Sherrod Marshall to step up and grab the other starting job. Mark Jones was a pleasant surprise in the return game of the Panthers last season, averaging more than 10 yards per punt return and 24 yard per kick return. He'll get the first shot at the return duties for the Panthers this season.
Fantasy Outlook:
Another good platoon unit. The Panthers should be able to get some sacks with Peppers back to his old form last season. But the secondary isn't a huge big-play unit and the special teams are just OK. | | # 19 | Seattle Seahawks (Def) | | Seattle | | | Player News:
The Seahawks were a huge disappointment last season, ranking 30th overall while allowing 24.5 points per game. Their pass defense was the big problem, allowing nearly 260 yards per game. The Seahawks also had just nine interceptions. The Seahawks hope newly acquired Ken Lucas can provide a veteran presence in the secondary. Seattle used their first pick in the draft on linebacker Aaron Curry, giving the team a top linebacker unit. Lofa Tatupa and Curry should be causing havoc the next several seasons for the Seahawks, giving the team quite a one-two punch at linebacker. The Seahawks pass rush does a pretty good job with Patrick Kerney leading the way. Curry also will be counted on to create pressure on the quarterback. A healthy Nate Burleson will help the Seahawks return game and Josh Wilson did well on kick returns last season (25.4 per return), so the Seahawks return games aren't too bad.
Fantasy Outlook:
The Seahawks secondary remains a concern, but you have to lack their sack potential. Plus, the AFC West is weak, so the Seahawks are shaping up to be a good spot starter for fantasy teams. They have some potential in the right matchup. | | # 20 | San Francisco 49ers (Def) | | San Francisco | | | Player News:
New coach Mike Singletary gave this unit some life last season. They emerged as one of the better defenses in the game the second half of the season. San Francisco ended the season ranked 13th defensively. Linebacker Patrick Willis has emerged as a premier defensive player. He anchors the 49ers young defense. Their pass rush could be improved with Manny Lawson getting some chances coming off the end and Parys Haralson looking to improve on his team-high eight sacks last season. Defensive end Justin Smith was a solid pickup for the 49ers last season. He isn't a superstar, but solid in run support and good at getting after the quarterback. The secondary will allow some big plays. Nate Clements is a more than adequate No. 1 cornerback. But the loss of Walt Harris to a torn ACL in offseason workouts leaves a void at the other cornerback spot, which is a concern. The 49ers had three special teams touchdowns last season, including a kickoff return from Allen Rossum, who did a very good job of the 49ers as their starting punt and kick returner last season.
Fantasy Outlook:
This is an up-and-coming unit. Their sack totals should go up some and the secondary has some big-play potential. The 49ers have a lot of young talent and a solid return game. San Fran will have some ups and downs, could be a good spot starter for fantasy teams this season. | | # 21 | Buffalo Bills (Def) | | Buffalo | | | Player News:
The Bills had a middle of the pack defense last season. They had so-so numbers across the board, but if they excelled in one area it was touchdowns. The Bills scored five defensive/special teams touchdowns last season. Their defense is led by linebacker Paul Posluszny. He just makes plays, totaling more than 100 tackles his first full season in the league. The Bills need a healthy and productive Aaron Schobel, though, if this defense gets better this season. Schobel is their best pass rusher and needs to return to past form.
Tackle Marcus Stroud does a good job stuffing the run. The Bills have some playmakers in the secondary, but these guys also will give up some big plays. Terrance McGee and Leodis McKelvin are solid corners that will take some chances and make big plays. The Bill have a great return game, scoring two return touchdowns last season. Roscoe Parrish remains one of the top punt return men in the game, averaging 15.3 yards per return last season. McKelvin does the damage on kick returns, averaging a robust 28.2 yards per return last season.
Fantasy Outlook:
The Bills are a good option in straight touchdown leagues, but for leagues that penalize for yards and points scored, they are an iffy option. Buffalo will get some sacks and interceptions, though, making them worth a look as a platoon defense. They have some upside in the right matchups. | | # 22 | Houston Texans (Def) | | Houston | | | Player News:
Despite having one of the elite pass rushers in the game (Mario Williams), the Texans still managed just 25 sacks. Williams gets little support. There were just two other players on the team last year that had more than a sack. The Texans will need to get some production from end Antonio Smith and tackle Amobi Okoye if this team hopes to improve defensively. Linebacker DeMeco Ryans is a star and top playmaker for the Texans. He does well in support of the run and in pass coverage. The pass defense is improving with corner back Dunta Robinson becoming a shutdown corner. The Texans boast a top return game with Jacoby Jones and Andre Davis getting most of the work. Jones had two punt returns for touchdowns last season and averaged 12.1 yards per return.
Fantasy Outlook:
Not a very exciting unit. They have some sack potential because of Williams, but don't have much else besides. But the secondary remains a concern and the Texans aren't likely to be great against the run. If you want some sacks and a good special teams, give the Texans a spot on your roster. | | # 23 | Jacksonville Jaguars (Def) | | Jacksonville | | | Player News:
The Jags defense does a decent job of limiting points and yards, but the rest of their numbers aren't too impressive. The Jags had just 29 sacks and caused 17 turnovers, which ranked near the bottom of the league. Jacksonville needs to get more production from defensive ends Derrick Harvey and Reggie Heyward. Tackle John Henderson does a good job of bottling up the run, though. Justin Durant moves to middle linebacker this season with Mike Peterson gone. Durant has some big shoes to fill, but the talent to produce. The Jags have an above-average secondary with Rashean Mathis and Brian Williams starting at cornerback. Mathis is a big-play corner with a lot of interception and touchdown potential. Brian Witherspoon should handle the return duties again this season. Witherspoon did a good job last year, averaging 11.3 yards per punt return and 24 yards on kick returns. The Jags special teams scored a touchdown last season.
Fantasy Outlook: 
The Jags defense is on the decline for fantasy teams. They don't rush the passer well and their turnovers have been down in recent seasons. Jacksonville can rebound some after last season, but don't expect a huge turnaround, making them more spot starters than a No. 1 defense. | | # 24 | Atlanta Falcons (Def) | | Atlanta | | | Player News:
The Falcons struggled at times defensively last season, ranking 24th overall. Their rush defense was the biggest disappointment, allowing 127.5 yards per game. First-round pick Peria Jerry hopes to provide a lift to the rush defense. The Falcons hope Jerry turns into the big, run-stuffing tackle they were lacking last season. Atlanta also needs some more playmakers in the secondary. They had just 10 interceptions last season. Chris Houston and rookie Chevis Jackson need to make some plays at cornerback. The pass rush for the Falcons is solid, though, with ends John Abraham and Jamaal Anderson doing a good job of pressuring the quarterback. Abraham remains one of the premier pass rushers in the game, getting 16 and a half sacks last season. The Falcons lost veteran Keith Brooking this offseason, but were able to replace him with another veteran linebacker, Mike Peterson. So the Falcons should see much of a dropoff at linebacker. The Falcons have a very good special teams unit. Harry Douglas emerged as a legit punt returner last season, averaging 11.9 yards per return. And Jerious Norwood remains one of the best kick returners in the game. These two are capable of big plays every time they touch the ball.
Fantasy Outlook:
The Falcons defense might be worth a spot start or two, but that is about it. They have a little sack potential with Abraham and Anderson, but their secondary doesn't cause a lot of turnovers and they will allow some points and yards. The special teams unit is above average, though. | | # 25 | Oakland Raiders (Def) | | Oakland | | | Player News:
The Raiders defense took a step back last season, ranking near the bottom of the league in several categories. The rush defense was especially poor, allowing 160 yards per game. If this area doesn't improve, the Raiders defense will be in for another long season. Oakland didn't do a whole lot to shore up this defense. Linebacker Kirk Morrison is a legit star and cornerback Nnamdi Asomugha might be the best in the entire game. But after those two players, the Raiders don't have much. Oakland doesn't do a good job of pressuring quarterbacks and struggle to cause turnovers (24 last season). The Raiders have a great return game, though, totaling five touchdowns last season. Johnnie Lee Higgins had three punt returns for touchdowns last season and averaged 13 yards per return. He also did a good job on kick returns (23.4 per return), but Justin Miller split work with him and had two kick returns for touchdowns. Special teams are a strength for the Raiders.
Fantasy Outlook:
The Raiders offense doesn't help the defense, stalling and scoring little. But the team should be improved some, which could help this unit. We still don't like their sack potential, but Asomugha gives the pass defense a huge lift for interceptions and touchdown potential. And if you are in a league that is strictly touchdowns for defense, consider Oakland a top squad. Their return game is among the best in the game. But otherwise, consider them a marginal platoon unit for fantasy teams. | | # 26 | New Orleans Saints (Def) | | New Orleans | | | Player News:
The Saints actually improved some defensively last season, but there overall numbers still weren't great. New Orleans ranked 23rd overall defensively and allowed 24.6 points per game. Their pass defense was the biggest concern, allowing 222 yards per game while getting 15 interceptions. The Saints score a lot of points, though, which doesn't help matters for their pass defense. The opposition is usually just trying to keep up. The Saints addressed the secondary during the offseason, getting Jabari Greer to start at one cornerback and Darren Sharper to start at safety. Both are upgrades and should be a boost to the defense. New Orleans is just average at rushing the passer. Charles Grant and Will Smith are their top ends and had six combined sacks last season. They need to be better. The Saints have an explosive return game with Reggie Bush getting much of the work on punt returns. Bush had three punt returns for touchdowns last season.
Fantasy Outlook:
The Saints will be better, but also will still give up a lot of points and yards. Their sacks totals are just average and the secondary remains questionable. The big positive is the special teams unit, which probably isn't good enough to overlook the defensive shortcomings. | | # 27 | Cincinnati Bengals (Def) | | Cincinnati | | | Player News:
The Bengals defense was able to create some turnovers (24) and score some points (three touchdowns), but was middle of the pack in points and yards allowed. The defense was improved some over the past few seasons, though. Linebacker Keith Rivers was injured early in the year, but looked like the real deal before getting hurt. And the Bengals used a second-round pick on Rey Maualuga, giving the Bengals two young and talented linebackers. These guys could be big-time trouble for opposing defenses for years to come. The Bengals need to improve their pass rush, though. They had just 17 sacks last season. Ends Robert Geathers and Antwan Odom need to really get after it this season. The Bengals secondary has some talented playmakers in Leon Hall and Johnathan Joseph. Hall had three interceptions, including one that he returned for a touchdown. The Bengals special teams didn't do a whole lot last season. They'll be looking for someone to step up during training camp.
Fantasy Outlook:
The Bengals have a little upside as a spot starter. They are making steady improvements and have some potential for sacks and interceptions. Cincy isn't the walkover defense of the past few seasons. They could be worth a waiver wire pickup for fantasy teams. | | # 28 | St. Louis Rams (Def) | | St Louis | | | Player News:
The Rams had another season to forget defensively. They allowed nearly 30 points per game and ranked 28th overall defensively. St. Louis couldn't stop anyone on the ground, allowing nearly 155 yards per game. The addition of a new defensive minded coach Steve Spagnuolo should help, though, as well as taking linebacker James Laurinaitis in the second round of the draft. The Rams still lack a lot defensively, though. Their tackles haven't done much in recent seasons and the secondary is a big question mark. Ron Bartell is the No. 1 cornerback, but isn't anything special. And cornerback Tye Hill has been a bust since the Rams used a No. 1 pick on him. If the Rams have a strength defensively, they do a decent job of pressuring the quarterback. Leonard Little is a good rusher off the edge, and Chris Long should improve his second season in the league. The Rams got poor special teams play last season and are looking for a return man. Derek Stanley could be given the first shot, but hasn't done a whole lot in past chances in this role.
Fantasy Outlook:
The Rams have some sack potential, but the rest of their unit is bad. Spagnuolo is going to give this unit some life, but he still needs a lot more talent to make this a viable fantasy defense. | | # 29 | Cleveland Browns (Def) | | Cleveland | | | Player News:
The Browns defense struggled last season, ranking 26th overall while allowing 21.9 points per game. Their rush defense was horrific, allowing over 150 yards per game. The Browns hope the additions of linebackers Eric Barton and David Bowens provide some stability and playmakers to the defensive side of the ball. A healthy Shaun Rogers would go a long ways as well to helping the Browns porous rush defense. The secondary has a few playmakers in cornerbacks Eric Wright and Brandon McDonald, but these aren't shutdown guys. And the pass rush didn't help the secondary much last season, totaling just 17 sacks. Bowens and defensive end Corey Williams will need to make a lot more plays against the quarterback if this defense hopes to get things turned around. Josh Cribbs is a big plus for the Browns return game. He had a kick return touchdown last season and averaged over 25 yards per kick return last season. Cribbs is a playmaker.
Fantasy Outlook:
Won't get you many sacks or interceptions and will give up some points and yards. But the positive of this unit is a good return game, which gives them a little fantasy value. | | # 30 | Kansas City Chiefs (Def) | | Kansas City | | | Player News:
A new coaching regime hopes to get the Chiefs defense straightened out. But they have a lot of work to do, inheriting a team that ranked 31st defensively. The Chiefs were torched time and time again against the run, allowing 159 yards per game. The additions of veteran linebackers Mike Vrabel and Zach Thomas should help, though. Both are upgrades over last season and have a ton of valuable experience. Kansas City needs to generate a much better pass rush after getting a league-low 10 sacks last season. They are counting on rookie Tyson Jackson to provide a big lift in this area. The Chiefs also are looking for second-year tackle Glenn Dorsey to take some big steps forward after a fairly disappointing rookie season. The Chiefs secondary has some question marks with Brandon Flowers and Brandon Carr the likely starters. Kevin Robinson was the top punt and kick return man much of last season, but didn't do much in this role. The Chiefs are likely to look for other options, likely giving Kolby Smith or Jamaal Charles a shot at the job.
Fantasy Outlook:
They have to be better than last season, but that still doesn't make the Chiefs a defense we would want on our team. Their sack potential is low and the secondary is likely to give up some big plays. You might get a start or two out of this unit in the right matchup, but that is about it. | | # 31 | Detroit Lions (Def) | | Detroit | | | Player News:
The Lions defense was dead last in yards and points allowed last season. Needless to say, they had a bad season. Detroit couldn't stop the run at all, allowing a whooping 172.1 yards per game. The secondary wasn't much better, getting just four interceptions all season. The Lions did try to address some of these problems in the offseason, though. New linebackers Julian Peterson and Larry Foote are solid, veteran additions. Both provide could leadership and ability to the Lions defense. Detroit also has two new starting cornerbacks in Philip Buchanon and Anthony Henry. These guys won't shutdown the opposition, but are upgrades from last season. And new defensive-minded head coach Jim Schwartz can't hurt the situation, either. The Lions will be looking at new options in the return game for the coming season. Rookie Derrick Williams and newly acquired Ronald Curry could get the first chances for the job.
Fantasy Outlook:
The Lions aren't a viable fantasy defense. They will get a few sacks, but they also are going to allow a lot of points and yards. This unit should be better than last season, but that isn't saying much. | | # 32 | Denver Broncos (Def) | | Denver | | | Player News:
The Broncos were awful defensively last season and didn't do a whole lot during the offseason to upgrade this unit. Changes were made, but Denver didn't really make a splash in free agency or the draft to see significant changes defensively. The Broncos couldn't stop the run or pass last season, ranking 27th overall defensively. Brian Dawkins is an upgrade at safety. And a healthy Champ Bailey remains a shutdown corner. But besides those two, the Broncos lack a lot in the secondary. And D.J. Williams is one of the few playmakers at linebacker. The Broncos need a lot of players to make big strides if this unit hopes to see much of an improvement defensively. Eddie Royal handled most of the return duties last season and did a very good job, but could see his role diminish a little with J.J. Arrington in the mix. Either way, the Broncos return game should be a strength.
Fantasy Outlook:
You might want to avoid this unit. The Broncos are going to allow a lot of points and yards. And their sack potential is low. They might get a few turnovers if Bailey can stay healthy, but nothing is certain there. |
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» Auction values based on std 12-team scoring league with $100 cap.
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