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Fantasy football defensive team analysis
Quick Jump: Player Analysis
Baltimore Ravens defensive team
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Baltimore Ravens | defensive team/special teams
2010 Projected NFL/Fantasy Football Statistics
| Score Allwd | Off Pts Allwd | Tot Def TD | Tot Spec Tm TD | Fum TD | Int TD | Int | Fum Rec | Pass TD Allwd | Rush TD Allwd | Def Scks |
| 280 | 266 | 4 | 1 | 1 | 2 | 18 | 10 | 19 | 7 | 34 |
Pros: Baltimore added a run-stuffing nose tackle in Terrence Cody and pass-rushing outside linebacker Sergio Kindle in the draft. The eventual healthy return of free safety Ed Reed (hip) will go a long way to shoring up this secondary. Despite a lack of quarterback pressure last year, the Ravens tied for the fifth most interceptions (22), two of which went to the house. Even in a down year, the Ravens scored the eighth most fantasy points in standard scoring last season. Veteran cornerback Walt Harris was signed for added secondary depth. The offense could be dynamic, which will help keep the defense from getting gassed early in contests.
Cons: The Ravens need to generate more pressure (32 team sacks in 2009). Reed may not be ready for the start of the season, and star linebacker Ray Lewis isn't getting any younger (35). At times, Baltimore wasn't very aggressive in '09.
Fantasy tip: This unit is the fifth off the board, on average, in fantasy drafts. They are going in the 12th round, which is earlier than we like to select a defensive team, but their name value goes a long way. Expect another strong season and an increase in fantasy value from last year's defensively passive showing.
New York Jets defensive team
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New York Jets | defensive team/special teams
2010 Projected NFL/Fantasy Football Statistics
| Score Allwd | Off Pts Allwd | Tot Def TD | Tot Spec Tm TD | Fum TD | Int TD | Int | Fum Rec | Pass TD Allwd | Rush TD Allwd | Def Scks |
| 306 | 290 | 4 | 2 | 1 | 1 | 16 | 13 | 18 | 12 | 38 |
Pros: The Jets allowed the fewest total yards (252.3) and passing yards (153.7) per game last year. Head coach Rex Ryan is a defensive mastermind, and they added Antonio Cromartie to help shore up their secondary. Kris Jenkins (knee) is one of the best interior linemen, when healthy. Jason Taylor was also added to rush from the outside linebacker position.
Cons: As lauded as they might be, this team didn't help a ton in the fantasy categories. They finished with just 32.0 sacks, tied for 18th, and picked off only 17 passes, tied for 13th. Jenkins is a huge injury question mark, and shutdown corner Darrelle Revis is threatening to hold out.
Fantasy tip: The Jets are going at the end of the eighth round. That's far too early to be selecting your top defense. If they fall, snap them up as a No. 1 D, but only do so if it's the 13th round or later, which is highly unlikely.
Green Bay Packers defensive team
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Green Bay Packers | defensive team/special teams
2010 Projected NFL/Fantasy Football Statistics
| Score Allwd | Off Pts Allwd | Tot Def TD | Tot Spec Tm TD | Fum TD | Int TD | Int | Fum Rec | Pass TD Allwd | Rush TD Allwd | Def Scks |
| 293 | 275 | 5 | 1 | 1 | 3 | 20 | 8 | 22 | 8 | 40 |
Pros: Dom Capers' unit is great at generating pressure, forcing mistakes, and this D knows how to make offenses pay for any mistakes. They led the league with 30 interceptions and returned three for touchdowns. Their 37.0 sacks were also respectable, and they should have a stronger D-line rotation with B.J. Raji healthy. They held opponents to the fewest rushing yards per game last year (83.3).
Cons: They're pretty old in their secondary, at least at corner, with Charles Woodson and Al Harris (knee) both well into their 30s. Harris is still recovering from a torn knee ligament. They struggled with pressure at times and never addressed a need for another explosive outside linebacker to go alongside Clay Matthews Jr.
Fantasy tip: Fantasy owners are taking Green Bay in the 12th round of drafts, on average, which is too early to select your defense. They didn't really address issues with pass coverage that were exploited at times last year (see Kurt Warner in the playoffs), so they could regress. Still, if they fall to the last couple of rounds, confidently take them.
Chicago Bears defensive team
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Chicago Bears | defensive team/special teams
2010 Projected NFL/Fantasy Football Statistics
| Score Allwd | Off Pts Allwd | Tot Def TD | Tot Spec Tm TD | Fum TD | Int TD | Int | Fum Rec | Pass TD Allwd | Rush TD Allwd | Def Scks |
| 308 | 295 | 4 | 3 | 0 | 1 | 19 | 14 | 19 | 13 | 27 |
Pros: Chicago will get linebacker Brian Urlacher back from a wrist injury that cost him most of 2009. They also added defensive Julius Peppers, one of the top free agents. Adding Peppers should help them generate more pressure, which was an area they were lacking last year. Just two years ago, they picked off 22 passed, which tied them for third in the league. Return man Devin Hester is among the most dangerous in the league.
Cons: Peppers has a reputation as taking some plays off; if he can't generate pressure, they could turn in another year like '09: 35.0 sacks and only 13 interceptions. Can Urlacher return to his previous form after the injury? Chicago's offense could be turnover-happy, once again, which would leave the D on the field a lot. They're a bit long in the tooth, too.
Fantasy tip: On average, the Bears' defense is going in the 18th round of fantasy drafts. They should be available in the last couple rounds of your standard drafts. They offer some solid upside, especially if Peppers can transition smoothly. They're No. 1 caliber.
San Francisco 49ers defensive team
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San Francisco 49ers | defensive team/special teams
2010 Projected NFL/Fantasy Football Statistics
| Score Allwd | Off Pts Allwd | Tot Def TD | Tot Spec Tm TD | Fum TD | Int TD | Int | Fum Rec | Pass TD Allwd | Rush TD Allwd | Def Scks |
| 336 | 317 | 2 | 1 | 0 | 1 | 14 | 9 | 20 | 12 | 36 |
Pros: With defensive-minded head coach Mike Singletary in his first full season as the San Fran boss, the Niners finished tied for third in the NFL with 44.0 sacks. They have a solid defensive line that allows All-Pro middle linebacker Patrick Willis room to run free.
Cons: They picked off only 18 passes last year and just 12 the year before. San Fran doesn't have a strong ball hawk to pick off passes, and they could struggle giving up big plays if Nate Clements starts again, as expected. They were the worst team at returning punts (4.4 yards per return) and in the bottom third for kick returns. They didn't score on either.
Fantasy tip: The 49ers take after their head coach: They hit you hard and play strong, smashmouth football. However, they're also overvalued in fantasy drafts, going in the 13th round of most drafts. There is a lot of upside and potential, but most fantasy owners have realized this. It's hard to justifiably label them a sleeper at this point.
New Orleans Saints defensive team
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New Orleans Saints | defensive team/special teams
2010 Projected NFL/Fantasy Football Statistics
| Score Allwd | Off Pts Allwd | Tot Def TD | Tot Spec Tm TD | Fum TD | Int TD | Int | Fum Rec | Pass TD Allwd | Rush TD Allwd | Def Scks |
| 291 | 265 | 4 | 1 | 1 | 2 | 18 | 11 | 18 | 12 | 32 |
Pros: The New Orleans' offense often stakes the defense leads, making opponents force things to try to catch up. Last year, they picked off 26 passes and returned five for touchdowns, which led the league. Defensive coordinator Gregg Williams is one of the best in the biz.
Cons: Darren Sharper was a big reason they were so opportunistic; at 35, how much does he have left? Can he recover adequately from offseason microfracture knee surgery? They don't generate a ton of pressure with just 35.0 sacks last in '09, and two years ago they finished tied for 22nd in the league with only 28.0 sacks. They also picked off just 15 passes that year.
Fantasy tip: New Orleans is being drafted in the 14th round, on average, of fantasy drafts. That's probably a bit too high to select them, mainly because they could be poised for regression. It might be more prudent to hold off until the 15th or 16th rounds to see if you can snag this risky unit as your No. 1.
Cincinnati Bengals defensive team
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Cincinnati Bengals | defensive team/special teams
2010 Projected NFL/Fantasy Football Statistics
| Score Allwd | Off Pts Allwd | Tot Def TD | Tot Spec Tm TD | Fum TD | Int TD | Int | Fum Rec | Pass TD Allwd | Rush TD Allwd | Def Scks |
| 324 | 314 | 2 | 0 | 1 | 1 | 16 | 12 | 21 | 13 | 34 |
Pros: Cincy has returned most of their '09 defense, when they made huge strides under defensive coordinator Mike Zimmer. They generated 34.0 sacks (t-16th) and 19 interceptions (t-19th) last year, even without the services of top rusher Antwan Odom (knee) for part of the year. They added Carlos Dunlap, a talented end, to their line and Michael Johnson is emerging as a strong situational pass rusher. They have depth along the line. Johnathan Joseph and Leon Hall are solid corners.
Cons: Can Odom regain explosiveness after his knee injury? Will they be able to add in Dunlap smoothly and can Johnson continue to improve? This D was among the worst in sacks in 2007 and 2008. They were in the lower third of the league in average yards per kick return and broke just one return for a score - there's nothing special about that part of their game.
Fantasy tip: Cincy's D is typically going at the beginning of the 18th round. They should be there if your league roster consists of only 16 spots. There's upside here you won't have to overpay for. View them as a decent No. 1 D once the elite ones have been taken.
Philadelphia Eagles defensive team
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Philadelphia Eagles | defensive team/special teams
2010 Projected NFL/Fantasy Football Statistics
| Score Allwd | Off Pts Allwd | Tot Def TD | Tot Spec Tm TD | Fum TD | Int TD | Int | Fum Rec | Pass TD Allwd | Rush TD Allwd | Def Scks |
| 325 | 301 | 3 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 21 | 10 | 23 | 11 | 39 |
Pros: Even with new defensive coordinator Sean McDermott, Philly stuck to the principles of the late Jim Johnson and focused on a blitz-heavy defense. They registered 44.0 sacks, tying for third in the league. Pass-rushing phenom defensive end Brandon Graham was added in the draft. Their D also generated 25 interceptions, which placed them fourth in the NFL. Punt returner DeSean Jackson is one of the most dangerous in the league; he helped the Eagles to a league-leading 13.5 yards per punt return and scored twice in '09.
Cons: Only four other defenses allowed more points than the Eagles. They lost Marlin Jackson (Achilles') for the year and could be a short on depth in their secondary. Last year's interception total might be a peak as they hadn't surpassed 20 in a season in the previous three years.
Fantasy tip: The Eagles are one of the first defenses off the board, typically going at the end of the 11th round. That's far too early to take a D, let alone one that could regress this year. If they drop to the last few of rounds, they're worth selecting, but only then.
Miami Dolphins defensive team
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Miami Dolphins | defensive team/special teams
2010 Projected NFL/Fantasy Football Statistics
| Score Allwd | Off Pts Allwd | Tot Def TD | Tot Spec Tm TD | Fum TD | Int TD | Int | Fum Rec | Pass TD Allwd | Rush TD Allwd | Def Scks |
| 332 | 305 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 13 | 11 | 22 | 12 | 39 |
Pros: Miami's defensive investment this offseason came at inside linebacker where they signed Karlos Dansby to a five-year deal. Cameron Wake (5.5 sacks last year) is emerging as a quality pass rusher. Miami finished tied for third in the NFL with 44.0 sacks. It was their second straight year in the top 10 under head coach Tony Sparano; they finished eighth with 40.0 in '08. They added a solid defensive coordinator in Mike Nolan.
Cons: The D will be transitioning under a new coordinator; there could be a few bumps along the way. They've lost nose tackle Jason Ferguson for the first eight games, and Jason Taylor left town (Jets). Miami was 22nd in the league last year with 349.3 yards allowed per game and tied for 29th with 5.8 yards allowed per play. The Fish picked off a paltry 15 passes last year. Their secondary is solid but not particularly dangerous.
Fantasy tip: Miami is going in the 15th round, on average, in fantasy drafts. This is about where you would want to take them. They are a mild sleeper candidate and should be worth taking the slight risk on.
Pittsburgh Steelers defensive team
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Pittsburgh Steelers | defensive team/special teams
2010 Projected NFL/Fantasy Football Statistics
| Score Allwd | Off Pts Allwd | Tot Def TD | Tot Spec Tm TD | Fum TD | Int TD | Int | Fum Rec | Pass TD Allwd | Rush TD Allwd | Def Scks |
| 270 | 248 | 2 | 0 | 0 | 2 | 17 | 13 | 18 | 7 | 45 |
Pros: The Steelers have ranked in the top two in sacks in each of the last two years with 51.0 and 47.0, respectively. You can probably pin their slide last year on injuries to top defensive end Aaron Smith (shoulder) and safety Troy Polamalu (knee). The return of those two could help them reach their '08 level in interceptions when they tied for sixth with 20.
Cons: Pittsburgh picked off only 12 passes last year. What if Smith and Polamalu can't return back to their pre-injury playing levels? Their offense won't have Ben Roethlisberger for up to the first six games, and if they struggle with Rashard Mendenhall and Byron Leftwich, their D might be left on the field a lot.
Fantasy tip: Pittsburgh's on-field success rarely has translated to fantasy dominance in recent years. This defense has lost some of the luster it had a couple of years ago, but that hasn't stopped owners from taking them in the 12th round of fantasy drafts. Don't follow suit. Hold off on taking them as your No. 1 until the final two rounds of your draft.
Minnesota Vikings defensive team
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Minnesota Vikings | defensive team/special teams
2010 Projected NFL/Fantasy Football Statistics
| Score Allwd | Off Pts Allwd | Tot Def TD | Tot Spec Tm TD | Fum TD | Int TD | Int | Fum Rec | Pass TD Allwd | Rush TD Allwd | Def Scks |
| 349 | 321 | 3 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 13 | 12 | 25 | 11 | 31 |
Pros: With Kevin Williams, Ray Edwards, Pat Williams and Jared Allen, the Vikings have one of the best defensive lines in the league. Minnesota led the league last year with 48.0 sacks. The year before, they finished fourth with 45.0.
Cons: Their secondary is a bit of a mess. Top corner Antoine Winfield missed six games because of injury last year and turned 33 in June. He is recovering from a Lisfranc fracture. Cornerback Cedric Griffin will be returning from a torn ACL. E.J. Henderson (leg) may not be ready for the start of the season. Also, they picked off just 11 passes last year and only 12 the year before. Defensive tackles Pat Williams and Kevin Williams each could be suspended four games.
Fantasy tip: The Vikings are going at the beginning of the 11th round - far too early to take your defense. Injuries and old age could hamper them, and they're probably a bit overrated because of their D-line. If they fall to the last two rounds, take them as your No. 1.
Tennessee Titans defensive team
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Tennessee Titans | defensive team/special teams
2010 Projected NFL/Fantasy Football Statistics
| Score Allwd | Off Pts Allwd | Tot Def TD | Tot Spec Tm TD | Fum TD | Int TD | Int | Fum Rec | Pass TD Allwd | Rush TD Allwd | Def Scks |
| 361 | 343 | 3 | 1 | 0 | 2 | 18 | 10 | 25 | 14 | 36 |
Pros: Under head coach Jeff Fisher, this defense has typically been stronger than their '09 showing. They ranked fifth with 44.0 sacks in '08 and have picked off 20 passes in each of the last two years. They added Derrick Morgan to their D-line with their first-round pick in the draft. He could help boost a pass rush that lagged last year.
Cons: Tennessee yielded the second most passing yards (258.7) and fifth most total yards (365.6) per game last year. The Titans managed only 32.0 sacks, tied for 18th, as they dealt with the loss of defensive tackle Albert Haynesworth and defensive coordinator Jim Schwartz. They lost one of the leader's of their defense, Kyle Vanden Bosch, this offseason.
Fantasy tip: The Titans are dropping to around the 18th round of most fantasy drafts. They are just a low-end No. 1, so don't feel too comfortable taking them, but you can always swap them out if they get off to a slow start. You won't have to invest much to secure them.
Dallas Cowboys defensive team
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Dallas Cowboys | defensive team/special teams
2010 Projected NFL/Fantasy Football Statistics
| Score Allwd | Off Pts Allwd | Tot Def TD | Tot Spec Tm TD | Fum TD | Int TD | Int | Fum Rec | Pass TD Allwd | Rush TD Allwd | Def Scks |
| 389 | 357 | 2 | 1 | 0 | 1 | 16 | 11 | 25 | 11 | 46 |
Pros: The 'Boys know how to generate pressure. Under defensive-minded head coach Wade Phillips they led the league in sacks in 2008 with 59 and finished seventh last year with 42. With DeMarcus Ware leading the way, they should again be among the league leaders in 2010. Dallas' offense should put the D in good position quite often.
Cons: Pressure hasn't led to many picks. They managed only 11 last year (tied for 26th) and eight the year before (30th). Dallas hasn't noticeably upgraded the secondary, so another dismal year in this department could be expected.
Fantasy tip: Dallas has come off the board in the 14th round of most drafts. They're a borderline No. 1 D that seems to be all upside. Pressure can lead to turnovers, but Dallas has struggled making this materialize. The potential for an elite defense is there, which is why they're being a bit overvalued.
New England Patriots defensive team
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New England Patriots | defensive team/special teams
2010 Projected NFL/Fantasy Football Statistics
| Score Allwd | Off Pts Allwd | Tot Def TD | Tot Spec Tm TD | Fum TD | Int TD | Int | Fum Rec | Pass TD Allwd | Rush TD Allwd | Def Scks |
| 296 | 277 | 3 | 1 | 0 | 2 | 19 | 11 | 22 | 8 | 38 |
Pros: They infused an aging D with solid draft picks this year: cornerback Devin McCourty, linebacker Brandon Spikes and defensive end Jermaine Cunningham. Last year's drafted produced several up-and-comers, too. They're led by one of the top defensive minds in the game. New England has a solid D-line led by Vince Wilfork and Ty Warren, and Jerod Mayo is a rising interior linebackers.
Cons: New England has managed only 31 sacks each of the last two years. They didn't post strong enough interception totals in each of the last two years, either, to make up for a lack of quarterback takedowns. New England's return game is nothing to write home about (no TDs last year). Injuries have ravaged their defensive line in recent years.
Fantasy tip: Owners are drafting New England in the 25th round, on average. They are terribly undervalued at that price. You can leave them for your waiver wire in most cases, but owners looking to burn their final pick on a DT can give this on-the-rise group a whirl. They have some upside, especially with all the young talent, but don't feel the need to reach for them on draft day.
San Diego Chargers defensive team
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San Diego Chargers | defensive team/special teams
2010 Projected NFL/Fantasy Football Statistics
| Score Allwd | Off Pts Allwd | Tot Def TD | Tot Spec Tm TD | Fum TD | Int TD | Int | Fum Rec | Pass TD Allwd | Rush TD Allwd | Def Scks |
| 314 | 292 | 2 | 1 | 0 | 1 | 19 | 10 | 20 | 12 | 44 |
Pros: Larry English has the talent to emerge as a solid outside rush linebacker (especially if Shawne Merriman suffers a letdown), and they're solid at most positions on D. They'll play a quarter of their games against the hapless Oakland Raiders and Kansas City Chiefs. They don't give up a ton of points (21.7 per game, 18th most), and they improved their sacks totals from '08 to '09 after a full offseason with defensive coordinator Ron Rivera. As a bonus, Darren Sproles can spring a long one in the return game at any time.
Cons: Pressure is still not where it should be. They managed just 28 sacks in '08 (tied for 22nd) and only 35 last year (tied for 13th). They haven't been much better picking off the ball, ranking in the bottom third in each of the last two years. Merriman hasn't said when he will get back on the field after missing most of OTAs. Nose tackle Jamal Williams (Broncos) and cornerback Antonio Cromartie (Jets) are both gone; replacement corner Antoine Cason doesn't translate well to man-to-man coverage schemes.
Fantasy tip: There isn't anything special about this defense. Fantasy owners agree. San Diego is being drafted in the 19th round, on average, as a borderline No. 1. Let them reside on someone else's roster (or more likely the waiver wire) on draft day.
New York Giants defensive team
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New York Giants | defensive team/special teams
2010 Projected NFL/Fantasy Football Statistics
| Score Allwd | Off Pts Allwd | Tot Def TD | Tot Spec Tm TD | Fum TD | Int TD | Int | Fum Rec | Pass TD Allwd | Rush TD Allwd | Def Scks |
| 334 | 316 | 2 | 1 | 0 | 1 | 17 | 15 | 24 | 12 | 43 |
Pros: Just two years ago, New York was one of the top defenses in sacks (44). Justin Tuck, Osi Umenyiora (hip), Mathias Kiwanuka and first-round draft pick Jason Pierre-Paul should form a solid defensive line. Perry Fewell is an upgrade over last year's defensive coordinator Bill Sheridan.
Cons: Umenyiora and Kiwanuka need to bounce back after disappointing seasons, and Pierre-Paul has yet to play a down in an NFL game. Only two other teams gave up more points per game than New York last year (26.7).
Fantasy tip: This defense might have potential, but they're going far too high to risk taking a chance on them. On average, they're being drafted at the beginning of the 14th round as the eighth DT off the board. Keep an eye on them, though, if they do go undrafted.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers defensive team
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Tampa Bay Buccaneers | defensive team/special teams
2010 Projected NFL/Fantasy Football Statistics
| Score Allwd | Off Pts Allwd | Tot Def TD | Tot Spec Tm TD | Fum TD | Int TD | Int | Fum Rec | Pass TD Allwd | Rush TD Allwd | Def Scks |
| 315 | 298 | 2 | 1 | 0 | 1 | 17 | 12 | 20 | 12 | 36 |
Pros: Tampa spent their first two picks in the draft on interior lineman Gerald McCoy and Brian Price. That should help shore up a defense that couldn't generate pressure and were dead last against the run. They also picked off 19 passes (tied for 19th) despite that lack of pressure last year.
Cons: Only four teams sacked the quarterback fewer times than the Bucs last year. They managed just 28 sacks. Price and McCoy will need to be ready to go from the first day in order to improve their run defense. In addition, this offense should struggle - again - this year. They'll probably leave the D on the field a lot. Tampa's D was tied for the fifth most yards given up per game last year (365.6) and was alone in sixth place in points per game (25.0)
Fantasy tip: Owners are staying away from the Bucs in fantasy drafts; they're undrafted in most leagues. You should follow suit and leave them on your waiver wire.
Kansas City Chiefs defensive team
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Kansas City Chiefs | defensive team/special teams
2010 Projected NFL/Fantasy Football Statistics
| Score Allwd | Off Pts Allwd | Tot Def TD | Tot Spec Tm TD | Fum TD | Int TD | Int | Fum Rec | Pass TD Allwd | Rush TD Allwd | Def Scks |
| 325 | 327 | 2 | 1 | 0 | 1 | 15 | 13 | 22 | 14 | 38 |
Pros: The Chiefs spend their first-round draft pick (fifth overall) on free safety Eric Berry, who could be one of the most NFL-ready draft prospects this year. They hired Romeo Crennel to lead their defense; he had success earlier in the decade with the New England Patriots. Their second year in the 3-4 system should lead to improvement.
Cons: Kansas City managed just 22 sacks last year - good for 31st in the league. It was actually an improvement from the 10 they managed in '08. Still, both totals are abysmal, even if they showed some improvement.
Fantasy tip: KC is going undrafted in most leagues and for good reason. They're not worth an immediate pickup, but as the season progresses, you could consider them for one-week plays if they make progress under Crennel.
Indianapolis Colts defensive team
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Indianapolis Colts | defensive team/special teams
2010 Projected NFL/Fantasy Football Statistics
| Score Allwd | Off Pts Allwd | Tot Def TD | Tot Spec Tm TD | Fum TD | Int TD | Int | Fum Rec | Pass TD Allwd | Rush TD Allwd | Def Scks |
| 327 | 304 | 3 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 15 | 10 | 19 | 13 | 37 |
Pros: The Colts can suppress points. Their 34 sacks last year were their most since '05. They have defensive end Robert Mathis and free safety Antoine Bethea as anchors, and their secondary is becoming more seasoned.
Cons: They finished 28th among defenses in standard scoring last year. They were middling in the NFL in interceptions and sacks, and now Dwight Freeney (ankle) is limited. Safety Bob Sanders can't stay healthy and may not be ready for Week 1, per some reports.
Fantasy tip: Their name inflates their draft value, which places them on average among the top 15 defenses taken. This defense might struggle to be consistent enough to be an every-week starter.
Oakland Raiders defensive team
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Oakland Raiders | defensive team/special teams
2010 Projected NFL/Fantasy Football Statistics
| Score Allwd | Off Pts Allwd | Tot Def TD | Tot Spec Tm TD | Fum TD | Int TD | Int | Fum Rec | Pass TD Allwd | Rush TD Allwd | Def Scks |
| 380 | 366 | 1 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 12 | 9 | 20 | 21 | 32 |
Pros: The Raiders improved under attack-style DC John Marshal. Defensive end Richard Seymour gave them a pass rush; Oakland finished 12th in sacks (36). They drafted Lamarr Houston, who will convert from tackle to end. They also brought in John Henderson to plug the D-line against the run and improved their linebackers with first-rounder Rolando McClain and free agent Kamerion Wimbley.
Cons: They finished last in INTs last year; Oaktown isn't stable in the takeaways column. How much can Henderson contribute to fix the run D? Is McClain an upgrade over Kirk Morrison? Will Trevor Scott produce as a hybrid linebacker after being moved from end?
Fantasy tip: The Raiders are still the Raiders until we see otherwise, so giving them the benefit of the doubt is challenging. Oakland is rarely drafted. They're more of an in-season fill-in option, but they have low-end No. 1 upside, especially if they can keep up their sacking.
Arizona Cardinals defensive team
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Arizona Cardinals | defensive team/special teams
2010 Projected NFL/Fantasy Football Statistics
| Score Allwd | Off Pts Allwd | Tot Def TD | Tot Spec Tm TD | Fum TD | Int TD | Int | Fum Rec | Pass TD Allwd | Rush TD Allwd | Def Scks |
| 393 | 364 | 4 | 1 | 1 | 2 | 17 | 9 | 23 | 15 | 35 |
Pros: Arizona finished last year sixth in sacks with 43 and seventh in interceptions with 21. They have a solid D-line led by Darnell Dockett, and an emerging star in cornerback Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie.
Cons: Was last year their peak? They failed to crack the top 10 in sacks and interceptions in 2008, and lost inside linebacker Karlos Dansby to the Miami Dolphins this offseason; he accounted for at least 109 total tackles in each of the last two seasons. Another starter, Gerald Hayes, underwent a back procedure and probably won't be ready for the start of camp. The once highly touted cornerback Bryant McFadden (Steelers) is no longer on the roster, either.
Fantasy tip: The Cards have been the last drafted defense, on average, going in the 25th round of most drafts. You can wait on them. They're one to keep an eye on, though, as they were a solid play at times last year. Keep them high up your watch list.
Atlanta Falcons defensive team
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Atlanta Falcons | defensive team/special teams
2010 Projected NFL/Fantasy Football Statistics
| Score Allwd | Off Pts Allwd | Tot Def TD | Tot Spec Tm TD | Fum TD | Int TD | Int | Fum Rec | Pass TD Allwd | Rush TD Allwd | Def Scks |
| 320 | 295 | 2 | 0 | 1 | 1 | 20 | 11 | 20 | 10 | 35 |
Pros: Sure, Atlanta managed only 28 sacks last year, but a big reason was the play of John Abraham. He was ineffective and failed to capitalize on his 16.5 sacks in '08. Still, he can be more effective than that; if he can return to his previous level he should help the defense be closer to their 2008 form. First-round '08 draft pick defensive tackle Peria Jerry (knee) should be healthy this year, and cornerback Dunta Robinson (Texans) was added to help shore up the defensive backfield.
Cons: They hardly pick off any passes - only 10 in 2008, 15 last year - putting more pressure on them to rack up the sacks. If John Abraham can't return to his form in 2008, where does the pressure come from? Their return game is nothing exceptional.
Fantasy tip: Even at their best under head coach Mike Smith in 2008, they weren't that great for fantasy owners. They aren't being drafted in most fantasy leagues; do the same and see how they do in the first few games before considering them for your roster.
Carolina Panthers defensive team
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Carolina Panthers | defensive team/special teams
2010 Projected NFL/Fantasy Football Statistics
| Score Allwd | Off Pts Allwd | Tot Def TD | Tot Spec Tm TD | Fum TD | Int TD | Int | Fum Rec | Pass TD Allwd | Rush TD Allwd | Def Scks |
| 346 | 317 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 17 | 13 | 18 | 17 | 31 |
Pros: Carolina doesn't give up that much yardage with just 315.8 total yards surrendered per game last year - good for eighth fewest in the league. Their 19.2 points allowed per game last year was tied for eighth fewest, and they ranked in the top 10 in interceptions.
Cons: Last year's defense managed only 31 sacks, and they lost top defensive end Julius Peppers to free agency this year. They don't have an immediate replacement of Peppers' caliber ready. Linebacker Thomas Davis (knee) may be out for the season.
Fantasy tip: This D has been left for the waiver in most drafts, and you shouldn't draft them, either.
Buffalo Bills defensive team
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Buffalo Bills | defensive team/special teams
2010 Projected NFL/Fantasy Football Statistics
| Score Allwd | Off Pts Allwd | Tot Def TD | Tot Spec Tm TD | Fum TD | Int TD | Int | Fum Rec | Pass TD Allwd | Rush TD Allwd | Def Scks |
| 380 | 365 | 2 | 1 | 0 | 1 | 16 | 9 | 21 | 16 | 32 |
Pros: Only one other team finished with more interceptions last year than the Bills. Their secondary was led in that department by rookie Jairus Byrd, who picked off nine passes.
Cons: They weren't adept at intercepting the ball in '08, and they don't have a strong front that can generate sacks (32 last year, tied for 18th). They lost aggressive defensive coordinator/interim head coach Perry Fewell in the offseason. Switching to a 3-4 alignment could pose problems, and their best pass rusher, Aaron Schobel, is considering retirement rather than switch from end to linebacker.
Fantasy tip: This secondary surprised many last year, and they probably warrant at least a spot on your watch list for the matchup play. However, pass them by on draft day. They aren't being drafted in most drafts, anyway.
Low-tier defensive team/special teams
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Cleveland Browns | defensive team/special teams
2010 Projected NFL/Fantasy Football Statistics
| Score Allwd | Off Pts Allwd | Tot Def TD | Tot Spec Tm TD | Fum TD | Int TD | Int | Fum Rec | Pass TD Allwd | Rush TD Allwd | Def Scks |
| 334 | 317 | 2 | 1 | 0 | 1 | 16 | 9 | 22 | 12 | 30 |
Fantasy tip: Despite a few intriguing additions on this side of the ball, Cleveland doesn't have the personnel to make a fantasy contributor on a regular basis. They are best left for the waiver wire in all leagues.
Seattle Seahawks | defensive team/special teams
2010 Projected NFL/Fantasy Football Statistics
| Score Allwd | Off Pts Allwd | Tot Def TD | Tot Spec Tm TD | Fum TD | Int TD | Int | Fum Rec | Pass TD Allwd | Rush TD Allwd | Def Scks |
| 360 | 345 | 2 | 1 | 0 | 1 | 15 | 11 | 25 | 13 | 36 |
Fantasy tip: Seattle appears to be going through a rebuilding of their defense, especially along the line, though their linebacking corps remains strong when healthy. There is slight potential here, but you can land them for weekly spot plays off the wire.
St. Louis Rams | defensive team/special teams
2010 Projected NFL/Fantasy Football Statistics
| Score Allwd | Off Pts Allwd | Tot Def TD | Tot Spec Tm TD | Fum TD | Int TD | Int | Fum Rec | Pass TD Allwd | Rush TD Allwd | Def Scks |
| 298 | 277 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 14 | 12 | 21 | 9 | 39 |
Fantasy tip: Linebacker James Laurinaitis and free safety Oshiomogho Atogwe (shoulder) are the bright spots of this group. The Rams don't have enough talent to be regularly competitive on defense, and fantasy owners have no reason to waste a pick on them.
Detroit Lions | defensive team/special teams
2010 Projected NFL/Fantasy Football Statistics
| Score Allwd | Off Pts Allwd | Tot Def TD | Tot Spec Tm TD | Fum TD | Int TD | Int | Fum Rec | Pass TD Allwd | Rush TD Allwd | Def Scks |
| 360 | 330 | 2 | 1 | 0 | 1 | 17 | 15 | 25 | 16 | 39 |
Fantasy tip: Detroit has potential, and we believe they are heading in the right direction. Unfortunately for fantasy owners, it won't come together this year. The Lions' secondary is atrocious on paper, and their defensive line has a lot of question marks. Avoid them on draft day, but keep tabs on their early-season chemistry.
Denver Broncos | defensive team/special teams
2010 Projected NFL/Fantasy Football Statistics
| Score Allwd | Off Pts Allwd | Tot Def TD | Tot Spec Tm TD | Fum TD | Int TD | Int | Fum Rec | Pass TD Allwd | Rush TD Allwd | Def Scks |
| 338 | 316 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 16 | 15 | 16 | 14 | 34 |
Fantasy tip: The Broncos lost their best pass rusher in linebacker Elvis Dumervil (pectoral) for most of the season, if not all. They're too old in the secondary and have a ton of question marks up front. Leave this group for the waiver wire.
Washington Redskins | defensive team/special teams
2010 Projected NFL/Fantasy Football Statistics
| Score Allwd | Off Pts Allwd | Tot Def TD | Tot Spec Tm TD | Fum TD | Int TD | Int | Fum Rec | Pass TD Allwd | Rush TD Allwd | Def Scks |
| 321 | 298 | 1 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 13 | 8 | 20 | 11 | 31 |
Fantasy tip: Transitioning to a 3-4 alignment isn't easy, and most teams require a few years to gather the essential personnel. Washington seems to be no different. They have a lot of individual talent, but we want to see it come together before taking a chance on them in fantasy leagues. Watch their early-season progress.
Houston Texans | defensive team/special teams
2010 Projected NFL/Fantasy Football Statistics
| Score Allwd | Off Pts Allwd | Tot Def TD | Tot Spec Tm TD | Fum TD | Int TD | Int | Fum Rec | Pass TD Allwd | Rush TD Allwd | Def Scks |
| 367 | 342 | 2 | 1 | 0 | 1 | 14 | 10 | 21 | 15 | 39 |
Fantasy tip: Star linebacker Brian Cushing will miss the first month of the season due to a suspension. Houston's secondary is awfully young, and they have struggled to get consistent play from their defensive linemen. Ignore them on draft day.
Jacksonville Jaguars | defensive team/special teams
2010 Projected NFL/Fantasy Football Statistics
| Score Allwd | Off Pts Allwd | Tot Def TD | Tot Spec Tm TD | Fum TD | Int TD | Int | Fum Rec | Pass TD Allwd | Rush TD Allwd | Def Scks |
| 327 | 303 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 16 | 7 | 22 | 14 | 29 |
Fantasy tip: The Jaguars are counting on a lot of their guys to play above expectations, but you shouldn't. Jacksonville plays in a high-powered division in terms of offensive play, and they don't apply enough pressure to the quarterback to create turnovers. Avoid them in all formats.
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