Exploring the Market: Edge Rushers Ready to Make an Impact
Last season, the performance of Yannick Ngakoue, a once-dominant force on the field, saw a noticeable decline. Despite this, Ngakoue's track record is impressive, boasting seven seasons with eight or more sacks prior to his recent slump. At his best, he's a game-changer, bringing relentless pressure and a knack for creating turnovers.
In contrast, Emmanuel Ogbah continued to illustrate why he's considered among the league's top edge defenders, achieving a remarkable 13.9% pressure rate last season. Ogbah's ability to disrupt the pocket has made him a coveted asset for teams looking to bolster their pass rush.
Carl Lawson, after making a comeback from an Achilles tear, demonstrated resilience and skill by amassing 49 pressures and securing 7.0 sacks. Lawson's performance is a testament to his dedication and potential to contribute significantly to any defense.
Interior Defensive Linemen to Keep an Eye On
Veteran Calais Campbell continues to defy age with another stellar season under his belt. Last season, he racked up 42 pressures and achieved a 10.8% pressure rate, showcasing his continued ability to disrupt offenses from the interior. Campbell's presence on the field is invaluable, bringing both experience and a formidable challenge for opposing offensive lines.
The season was unfortunately short for Hassan Ridgeway, who could only make an appearance in three games. Despite this, Ridgeway's potential remains untapped, and he could be a sleeper pick for teams willing to take a chance on his ability to rebound.
Bryan Mone's entire 2023 campaign was sidelined due to injuries. Yet, his previous contributions have not been forgotten, and a healthy return could see him become a significant disruptor on the defensive line.
Off-Ball Linebackers Worth Your Attention
Zach Cunningham's adaptability and skill were on full display as he notched 85 tackles in just 13 games last season. Cunningham's knack for finding the ball and his tackling efficiency make him a valuable asset for any linebacker corps.
Both Kwon Alexander and Xavier Woods have solidified their reputations by contributing significantly not only in tackling but also on special teams. Their versatility and commitment to playing various roles underscore their value to potential suitors.
Cornerbacks Capable of Turning the Tide
Xavien Howard, with 23 interceptions over the past four seasons, has firmly established himself as a premier playmaker in the secondary. Howard's ball-hawking abilities have made him a nightmare for quarterbacks, and his knack for turning games with crucial turnovers cannot be overstated.
Both Stephon Gilmore and Steven Nelson proved themselves last season with strong performances, underlining their status as dependable and skilled cornerbacks. Their experience and ability to shut down opposing receivers make them desirable targets for teams seeking defensive backfield improvements.
Available Safeties Making their Mark
Justin Simmons, with a towering tally of 70 tackles and three interceptions last season, continued to show why he's considered one of the league's elite safeties. Simmons' blend of physicality, awareness, and ball skills makes him a cornerstone defensive back.
Despite recent injuries, both Micah Hyde and Jamal Adams have remained impactful. Their ability to contribute in multiple facets of the game, from pass defense to run support, has kept them in the conversation among the top safeties in the league. Their readiness to return to peak form makes them intriguing options for teams looking to shore up their last line of defense.
The forthcoming season presents a thrilling prospect with so much talent available in the market. Teams have the opportunity to transform their defenses by integrating some of these proven veterans, each ready to make a significant impact in the right system. As the new league year approaches, it will be fascinating to see where these players land and how they will influence their new teams' fortunes.