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NFL Player Power Rankings Week 5: The defensive players

By Lyle Graversen

Dec 22, 2013; Houston, TX, USA; Houston Texans defensive end J.J. Watt (99) celebrates a sack against the Denver Broncos during the second half at Reliant Stadium. The Broncos won 37-13. Mandatory Credit: Thomas Campbell-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 22, 2013; Houston, TX, USA; Houston Texans defensive end J.J. Watt (99) celebrates a sack against the Denver Broncos during the second half at Reliant Stadium. The Broncos won 37-13. Mandatory Credit: Thomas Campbell-USA TODAY Sports /
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Aug. 24, 2013; Glendale, AZ, USA: San Diego Chargers safety Eric Weddle (32) against the Arizona Cardinals during a preseason game at University of Phoenix Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports
Aug. 24, 2013; Glendale, AZ, USA: San Diego Chargers safety Eric Weddle (32) against the Arizona Cardinals during a preseason game at University of Phoenix Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports /

No. 15-11

15. Eric Weddle – S – San Diego Chargers

Eric Weddle is one of the more underrated players in the NFL. The guy has consistently been one of the premier safeties in the NFL, right up there with guys like Eric Berry and Earl Thomas. Weddle may not be the youngest player in the league anymore, but he’s still one of the top playmakers.

14. DeAndre Levy – LB – Detroit Lions

DeAndre Levy has been one of the surprising break out performers on defense this season. He already has 38 tackles, a safety, 4 passes defended, and an interception on the season. The Detroit Lions defense has seen a clear resurgence so far this season and Levy is one of the key reasons why.

13. Prince Amukamara – CB – New York Giants

While Levy has been a breakout linebacker this season, the Giants Prince Amukamara has done the same at the cornerback position. His nine passes defended and two interceptions show he can cover and his 25 tackles show that he’s not afraid to make a stop when the team needs him to.

12. Kyle Williams – DT – Buffalo Bills

I promise you, there isn’t a more underrated player on this list than Buffalo’s Kyle Williams. He’s currently PFF’s top rated defensive tackle and excels at both stopping the run and getting after the QB. While Williams isn’t the physical specimen of some of the other defensive linemen on this list he more than makes up for it via his play on the field.

11. Justin Houston – OLB – Kansas City Chiefs

Justin Houston joins with Tamba Hali to form KC’s elite pass rushing duo. The younger Houston is currently tied for the league lead in sacks with five and also has a pass deflection and a forced fumble to go with them. With Houston’s contract about to expire, he is going to get PAID this offseason.

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