Edge Rushers on the Market
As the NFL season progresses, teams are always on the lookout for talents that can bolster their defenses, particularly in the edge rushing department. Yannick Ngakoue, despite experiencing a dip in his performance last season, remains a notable mention. A formidable force in his prime, Ngakoue has impressively tallied seven seasons with at least 8 sacks, demonstrating his potential to bounce back and be a significant contributor.
Another edge rusher who caught attention last season is Emmanuel Ogbah. With a 13.9% pressure rate, Ogbah has showcased his ability to disrupt the offense and get to the quarterback, making him an asset worth considering. Additionally, Carl Lawson, after recovering from an Achilles tear, registered 49 pressures and 7.0 sacks, a testament to his resilience and capability of being a difference-maker on the field.
Interior Defensive Linemen Worth Watching
The interior defense line often sets the tone in the trenches, and several players have stepped up to highlight their value. Veteran Calais Campbell, for instance, not only provided 42 pressures but also maintained a 10.8% pressure rate last season, underscoring his continuing impact despite the years. Conversely, Hassan Ridgeway saw his season cut tragically short after just three games, leaving many to wonder what could have been. Similarly, Bryan Mone's entire 2023 campaign was sidelined due to injuries, leaving questions about his potential contributions had he been healthy.
Off-Ball Linebackers to Consider
In the realm of off-ball linebackers, a few standouts from last season merit attention. Zach Cunningham, with 85 tackles across 13 games, highlighted his knack for being in the right place at the right time. His ability to read plays and disrupt the offense was evident. Additionally, Kwon Alexander and Xavier Woods, while perhaps more known for their work in tackling and special teams, have shown that they can contribute significantly in multiple aspects of the defense.
Cornerbacks That Can Change a Game
The impact of a game-changing cornerback cannot be underestimated in the NFL, and Xavien Howard is a prime example. With 23 interceptions over the last four seasons, Howard has proven himself as a ball hawk in the secondary, capable of flipping the game's momentum at any moment. On the other side, both Stephon Gilmore and Steven Nelson turned in strong performances last season, reinforcing the notion that a solid cornerback can be the backbone of a formidable defense.
Safeties Still on the Board
Rounding out the discussion are the safeties, where Justin Simmons emerges as a noteworthy mention. Having made 70 tackles and secured three interceptions last season, Simmons' presence in the defensive backfield has been invaluable. Furthermore, despite recent injuries, Micah Hyde and Jamal Adams have continued to impact the game significantly. Their ability to read and react to plays, combined with physical toughness, makes them potential steals for teams looking to strengthen their safety positions.
In summary, the NFL's dynamic nature means teams are in a constant state of evolution, looking for pieces that can either solidify their foundations or turn them into contenders. The players mentioned here, from edge rushers to safeties, have all demonstrated qualities that could make them valuable assets to any team. As such, it will be interesting to see where they end up and how they will be utilized in the coming seasons. The blend of seasoned veterans and players coming off injuries or down years offers a wide array of options for teams looking to boost their defenses. Each of these athletes, with their unique sets of skills and experiences, represents an opportunity for significant impact in the right system and with the right coaching. As the season unfolds, their movements and contributions will be keenly watched by fans and analysts alike, adding another layer of excitement and speculation to the NFL narrative.