While offense grabs headlines, defense still wins championships. In 2024, some of the league’s most physical and versatile defenses set the tone for playoff runs and postseason upsets. Heading into 2025, these five defenses lead the way as they are deep, disruptive, and anchored by stars at every level.
#1 Denver Broncos
Denver comes into the season looking like an absolute nightmare on defense. They led the league in sacks last year and were near the top in every major efficiency stat.
Pat Surtain II now holds the title of best cornerback in the league after a dominant season where he locked down elite receivers week after week and won Defensive Player of the Year. In the offseason, Denver added Dre Greenlaw and Talanoa Hufanga from the 49ers, bringing even more toughness and smarts to a group that already had swagger.
Rookie Jahdae Barron is turning heads in OTAs and could add more versatility to the back end. On the edge, Nik Bonitto and Baron Browning bring speed and relentless energy. Inside, they clog lanes and collapse pockets.
If this unit stays healthy, it wouldn’t be surprising to see them end the year as the NFL’s best defense.
#2 Philadelphia Eagles
Vic Fangio’s scheme took hold last season, and now Philly’s defense looks like a fine-tuned machine.
Jalen Carter has become a one-man wrecking crew on the interior, blowing up run plays and collapsing pockets. Even with Josh Sweat gone, the Eagles added edge threats Azeez Ojulari and Joshua Uche to keep the pass rush humming. Rookie linebacker Jihaad Campbell has looked explosive this offseason and could start right away.
The secondary is younger but full of potential. Quinyon Mitchell has taken on CB1 duties and looks ready for the challenge. Cooper DeJean is being moved around in the nickel and safety roles after a standout rookie campaign, giving the defense more matchup flexibility.
With depth and high-end talent across the board, the Eagles are positioned to shut down just about anyone.
#3 Houston Texans
This group has quickly transformed into one of the league’s deepest and most aggressive defenses. Head coach DeMeco Ryans has built a unit that reflects his own playing style as they are fast, smart, and physical.
Will Anderson Jr. racked up 11 sacks last year and is starting to look like a franchise pass rusher. Danielle Hunter continued to produce on the edge, and the front seven now includes linebacker E.J. Speed, who brings sideline-to-sideline quickness.
The secondary is a strength with Derek Stingley Jr. and rookie Kamari Lassiter on the outside, plus versatile safety Jalen Pitre doing a bit of everything. C.J. Gardner-Johnson adds leadership and ball-hawking ability.
With chemistry, depth, and coaching all clicking, Houston’s defense looks primed to dominate.
#4 Baltimore Ravens
Baltimore’s defense doesn’t take plays off. They finished top five in takeaways and points allowed last year and keep finding ways to reload.
Signing All-Pro corner Jaire Alexander was huge, giving them a lockdown duo with Marlon Humphrey. That helped offset the free agent loss of Brandon Stephens. Kyle Hamilton continues to be one of the most versatile weapons in the league, excelling as a safety, slot defender, and hybrid linebacker.
Roquan Smith still commands the middle and leads by example. Up front, Justin Madubuike brings interior pressure while Odafe Oweh continues to grow on the edge.
Baltimore plays tough, disciplined football and rarely gets beat by self-inflicted mistakes. This defense will keep them in every game.
#5 Detroit Lions
Detroit rode its defense to a 15–2 finish last year, showing major growth across the board. Aidan Hutchinson missed much of the season, but the rest of the group stepped up.
Linebacker Jack Campbell was a machine, racking up over 130 tackles and showing improved coverage instincts. Safety Kerby Joseph had a monster year with a league-leading nine interceptions and earned a long-term extension.
The secondary lost Carlton Davis but added veteran D.J. Reed, who brings grit and reliable coverage. Brian Branch and Amik Robertson continue to shine in nickel and sub packages, and Avonte Maddox adds more depth. The big change is on the sideline.
Aaron Glenn took the Jets’ head coaching job, and Kelvin Sheppard steps in as DC after serving as the team’s linebackers coach. He’s respected by the players and brings continuity.
If Hutchinson stays healthy and the secondary gels, this could be the most complete Lions defense in decades.
Teams to watch: Jets, Browns, Packers. Each has elite pieces but didn’t quite crack the top five heading into this season.
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