5 Defenses to Target Moving Forward in Fantasy Football

Defenses to Target Moving Forward

In the ever-shifting landscape of fantasy football, the recent injuries to some of the league’s top defenses have left many owners scrambling for replacements. While the waiver wire may seem barren, there are still several under-the-radar options that can provide solid production. This article explores the best defenses to target moving forward, examining their strengths, weaknesses, and upcoming matchups.

One defense that has flown under the radar this season is the Jacksonville Jaguars. Despite facing some tough offenses early on, the Jaguars have quietly emerged as a top-10 unit in fantasy points allowed. Their pass rush, led by Josh Allen and Travon Walker, has generated consistent pressure, while their secondary has made several big plays. With a favorable schedule ahead, the Jaguars are a sneaky pickup that could provide a boost to your fantasy squad.

Another defense that deserves consideration is the Baltimore Ravens. After a slow start to the season, the Ravens have rebounded with three strong performances in a row. Their defense has recorded multiple sacks and turnovers in each of those games, and they have a knack for making big plays when they need them most. With a favorable matchup against the Carolina Panthers on the horizon, the Ravens are a solid streaming option for Week 6 and beyond.

Revisiting the Elite: Lockdown Cornerbacks

Cornerbacks continue to rise in value as the importance of pass coverage skyrockets in today’s NFL. These lockdown corners are the backbone of any championship-caliber defense, and their ability to shut down opposing receivers consistently is crucial.

In 2023, there are several cornerbacks who have established themselves as the premier playmakers at their position. These players possess a combination of physicality, instincts, and ball skills that make them nightmares for opposing offenses. They have proven their ability to dominate in man-to-man coverage and make game-changing plays.

Here is a closer look at some of the elite lockdown cornerbacks in the NFL:

Top Lockdown Cornerbacks

Cornerback	Team	2023 Stats
1. Jaire Alexander	Green Bay Packers	5 INTs, 13 PDs, 71 tackles
2. Sauce Gardner	New York Jets	4 INTs, 20 PDs, 72 tackles
3. Xavien Howard	Miami Dolphins	3 INTs, 15 PDs, 58 tackles
4. Trevon Diggs	Dallas Cowboys	11 INTs, 20 PDs, 63 tackles
5. Derek Stingley Jr.	Houston Texans	3 INTs, 12 PDs, 55 tackles

The Pillars of Resistance: Elite Safety Play

In the modern NFL, a lockdown safety duo can elevate a defense to new heights, snuffing out explosive plays and turning the tide of games. Here’s a deep dive into what separates the elite from the rest:

Pass Coverage Prowess

Elite safeties excel in pass coverage. They have exceptional range, instincts, and ball-tracking abilities. They can read quarterbacks’ eyes, anticipate routes, and break up or intercept passes consistently. Their coverage skills disrupt opposing passing attacks and force offenses into difficult situations.

Run Support

Safeties don’t just excel in the air; they’re also crucial in run support. They possess the speed, agility, and tackling ability to make plays near the line of scrimmage. They can fill gaps, close running lanes, and generate negative plays for the opposition.

Elite Pass Coverage Stats:

Stat	Description	Value Range
Pass Breakups (PBUs)	Number of times a safety deflects or intercepts a pass	> 10
Passes Defended	Combines PBUs with interceptions	> 15
Coverage Grade	Advanced metric that measures a safety’s effectiveness in pass coverage	> 80

Pass-Rush Terror: Dominant Edge Defenders

Elite Terrors on the Edge

These premier pass rushers have proven their unparalleled ability to terrorize offenses. Their relentless pressure, explosive bursts, and relentless pursuit make them the most feared defenders in the game. They not only disrupt quarterbacks but also force fumbles, sack the pocket, and create chaos in opposing backfields.

Rising Stars on the Horizon

While the elite pass rushers continue to dominate, a new crop of young defenders is emerging as potential game-changers. These rising stars possess exceptional athleticism, refined techniques, and an unyielding determination to become the next generation of defensive terrors.

Unleashing the Fury: Top 5 Edge Defenders

Rank	Player	Team	Sacks 2022
1	T.J. Watt	Pittsburgh Steelers	22.5
2	Myles Garrett	Cleveland Browns	16
3	Von Miller	Buffalo Bills	12
4	Nick Bosa	San Francisco 49ers	15.5
5	Chandler Jones	Arizona Cardinals	10.5

This esteemed group of edge defenders has consistently terrorized opposing quarterbacks, generating pressure, forcing fumbles, and leading their teams to defensive dominance. With their exceptional pass-rushing prowess, they remain a force to be reckoned with in fantasy football, promising to wreak havoc on offenses for years to come.

Linebacking Legends: Top-Tier Linebacker Coverage

Linebackers are the backbone of any strong defense, and in fantasy football, they can be a major source of points. Here are some of the best linebackers to target for your team this season.

Top Linebackers for 2023

Rank	Player	Team
1	Micah Parsons	Dallas Cowboys
2	T.J. Watt	Pittsburgh Steelers
3	Nick Bosa	San Francisco 49ers
4	Chandler Jones	Las Vegas Raiders
5	Von Miller	Buffalo Bills

Chandler Jones is one of the most consistent pass rushers in the NFL, and he’s coming off a season in which he had 10.5 sacks and 26 tackles for loss. Jones is now with the Las Vegas Raiders, and he’s expected to be a major factor in their defense this season. He’s a great option for fantasy football owners looking for a player who can rack up tackles and sacks.

The Foundation: Elite Defensive Line Units

Elite defensive line units can be the foundation of a dominant defense, providing pressure on opposing quarterbacks and stuffing the run. Here are a few teams to target in this area:

49ers Defensive Line

The 49ers have one of the most fearsome defensive lines in the NFL, led by Nick Bosa and Arik Armstead. Bosa is a perennial Pro Bowler and one of the league’s top pass rushers, while Armstead is a versatile lineman who can disrupt both the run and pass. The rest of the 49ers’ defensive line is also solid, with D.J. Jones and Samson Ebukam providing quality depth.

Rams Defensive Line

The Rams have a strong defensive line led by Aaron Donald, one of the best defensive players in the NFL. Donald is a dominant force against the run and pass, and he often commands double teams, which frees up other Rams defenders to make plays. The rest of the Rams’ defensive line is also talented, with Michael Brockers, A’Shawn Robinson, and Sebastian Joseph-Day all capable of making an impact.

Steelers Defensive Line

The Steelers have a long history of producing great defensive lines, and they currently have one of the best in the league. T.J. Watt is one of the most disruptive pass rushers in the NFL, and Cameron Heyward is a Pro Bowl caliber defensive tackle. The Steelers also have good depth on their defensive line, with Stephon Tuitt, Isaiah Buggs, and Chris Wormley all capable of contributing.

Browns Defensive Line

The Browns have one of the most talented defensive lines in the NFL, led by Myles Garrett. Garrett is one of the best pass rushers in the league, and he is surrounded by a talented supporting cast. Jadeveon Clowney, Takk McKinley, and Malik McDowell are all capable of making plays, and the Browns’ defensive line should be one of the best in the league in 2021.

Ravens Defensive Line

The Ravens have a long history of producing great defenses, and their defensive line is no exception. Calais Campbell is a Pro Bowl caliber defensive tackle, and Derek Wolfe is a veteran presence who can still make plays. The Ravens also have some talented young players on their defensive line, including Justin Madubuike and Broderick Washington. The Ravens’ defensive line should be one of the best in the league in 2021.

Team	2020 Defensive Line Stats
49ers	56 sacks, 148 tackles for loss
Rams	53 sacks, 135 tackles for loss
Steelers	45 sacks, 128 tackles for loss
Browns	49 sacks, 134 tackles for loss
Ravens	52 sacks, 140 tackles for loss

Hybrid Heroes: Versatile Players for Modern Defenses

Dynamic Duos

Look for defenses that boast a player who can rack up sacks and tackles, while their teammate excels in interceptions and pass breakups. This dynamic pairing offers a balanced attack that can stifle opposing offenses.

Triple Threats

Seek out defenses with players who cover all aspects of the game—sacks, tackles, interceptions, and pass breakups. These triple threats can accumulate points in multiple ways, making them valuable assets in fantasy football.

Special Teams Standouts

Consider defenses that have a standout special teams unit. Kick and punt return touchdowns can provide a significant boost to your fantasy team’s score.

Playmakers with Multiple Skills

Focus on defenses that have players who possess multiple skill sets. For instance, a cornerback who can also rush the passer can help increase the team’s overall points potential.

Slot Defenders with Impact

Don’t overlook slot defenders who can make an impact in fantasy football. These players typically cover the slot receiver, which is a high-target area for many offenses.

Safety Saviors

Safeties have emerged as versatile playmakers in modern defenses. They can accumulate tackles, interceptions, and pass breakups, making them valuable assets for fantasy owners.

Special Teams Specialists: Impacting Field Position

Special teams specialists play a crucial role in fantasy football by impacting field position. A strong special teams unit can provide hidden value for your team, setting up your offense with favorable field position or hindering your opponents’ drives.

Kickers

Kickers contribute to field position by scoring points on field goals and extra points. Kickers with long range can increase the likelihood of making field goals from greater distances, improving your team’s scoring potential.

Punters

Punters are responsible for kicking the ball downfield to give your opponents possession. A punter with a strong leg can pin opponents deep in their own territory, limiting their scoring opportunities and giving your defense a better chance to force a turnover or score.

Returners

Returners handle kicks and punts on behalf of your team. A skilled returner can gain significant yardage on returns, setting up your offense with a short field or scoring a touchdown.

Impact on Defense

Special teams play a direct impact on the defense, as a strong special teams unit can give the defense a significant advantage. By securing favorable field position, special teams can reduce the amount of time the defense spends on the field and decrease the number of scoring opportunities for your opponents.

Table: Top Special Teams Specialists for 2023

Player	Position	Team
Justin Tucker	Kicker	Baltimore Ravens
Tress Way	Punter	Washington Commanders
Keisean Nixon	Returner	Green Bay Packers

Secondary Surprises: Underrated DBs with Potential

8. Chicago Bears:

The Bears’ defense has been a pleasant surprise in 2022. After adding key pieces like Roquan Smith and Kyler Gordon, they have become a formidable force on the field. Smith has been a tackling machine, while Gordon has shown his potential as a playmaker with his interceptions and pass breakups. Safety Eddie Jackson remains a key part of the secondary, and his ability to make big plays gives the Bears a dangerous defense for opposing offenses.

Here are some defensive stats for the Chicago Bears:

Category	Rank
Points Allowed per Game	14th
Yards Allowed per Game	9th
Turnovers Created	12th

The Bears’ secondary has the potential to continue improving as the season progresses. With their young stars and experienced veterans, they could be a top-10 defense in the league.

Emerging Elite: Rookies and Sophomores to Watch

The NFL is a young man’s game, and that’s especially true on the defensive side of the ball. Several rookies and sophomores have flashed elite potential and could be in line for breakout seasons in 2023. Here are a few to keep an eye on:

Aidan Hutchinson (Detroit Lions): The No. 2 overall pick in the 2022 NFL Draft, Hutchinson had a solid rookie season with 9.5 sacks and 33 tackles for loss. He has the potential to be a dominant pass rusher and could be a league-winner in fantasy football if he takes a step forward in Year 2.

Sauce Gardner (New York Jets): Gardner was one of the most impressive rookies in the NFL last season, allowing just 29 completions on 69 targets in coverage. He has the size, speed, and athleticism to be a shutdown corner and could be a major force in fantasy football for years to come.

Devin Lloyd (Jacksonville Jaguars): Lloyd was an instant impact player for the Jaguars last season, leading the team in tackles (115) and interceptions (3). He is a versatile defender who can play all over the field and could be a valuable IDP asset in fantasy football.

Trevon Diggs (Dallas Cowboys): Diggs had a breakout season in 2021 with 11 interceptions, but he regressed somewhat in 2022. Still, he has the potential to be a dominant playmaker in the Dallas defense and could be a good value in fantasy football drafts.

Micah Parsons (Dallas Cowboys): Parsons was one of the most dynamic defensive players in the NFL last season, racking up 13 sacks, 20 tackles for loss, and 3 interceptions. He is a nightmare matchup for opposing offenses and could be the No. 1 IDP in fantasy football in 2023.

Fantasy Flops: Avoiding Underperforming Defenses

1. Schedule Risk

Avoid defenses facing multiple high-powered offenses. For example, the Detroit Lions face the Kansas City Chiefs, Green Bay Packers, and Tampa Bay Buccaneers in their first six games.

2. Key Player Injuries

Monitor injury reports for star defensive players. A defense can plummet without its top playmakers, such as the Los Angeles Rams without Aaron Donald.

3. Strength of Opponent’s Offense

Consider the strength of the opposing offense. A defense facing a prolific offense like the Cincinnati Bengals is less likely to produce high fantasy points.

4. Home/Away Splits

Some defenses perform significantly better at home or away. Check the team’s home/away splits to identify potential pitfalls.

5. Defensive System

Research the defensive scheme employed by the team. Some defenses, like the New England Patriots, rely heavily on turnovers, while others focus on sacks or run defense.

6. Weather Conditions

Adverse weather, such as rain or snow, can limit the effectiveness of defenses by reducing passing and scoring opportunities.

7. Team Health

Stay informed about overall team health. A defense lacking key players due to COVID-19 or other illnesses may struggle to perform.

8. Recent Performance

Examine the team’s recent defensive performance. A defense that has allowed consistent high point totals may be a risky pick.

9. Underrated Defenses

Consider targeting underrated defenses that offer potential value. They may be facing weaker offenses or have playmakers poised for a breakout season.

10. In-Depth Defensive Analysis

Factor	Considerations
Pass Rush	Sacks, pressures, quarterback hits
Run Defense	Yards per attempt, tackles for loss
Interceptions	Total interceptions, interception yards
Forced Fumbles	Forced fumbles, fumble recovery yards
Defensive Points Allowed	Points per game, average yards allowed

Best Defenses Moving Forward in Fantasy Football

The NFL season is a marathon, not a sprint. And while it’s important to get off to a good start, it’s equally important to make sure your team is positioned for success down the stretch. One way to do that is to have a strong defense.

There are a number of factors to consider when evaluating defenses, including their schedule, their performance against the pass and the run, and their ability to generate turnovers. Based on these factors, here are a few defenses that I believe are worth considering for the rest of the season:

Buffalo Bills: The Bills have one of the most talented defenses in the NFL, and they have a favorable schedule down the stretch. They face just one team (the Kansas City Chiefs) that is currently ranked in the top 10 in points per game.
New England Patriots: The Patriots have been one of the most consistent defenses in the NFL for years, and they are showing no signs of slowing down. They have a tough schedule down the stretch, but they have the talent to overcome it.
Pittsburgh Steelers: The Steelers have been a bit of a surprise this season, but they have the potential to be a top-tier defense. They have a favorable schedule down the stretch, and they are facing only two teams (the Bengals and the Chiefs) that are ranked in the top 10 in points per game.