NFL 2015: Ranking each defense from 32-1

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Philadelphia Eagles defensive end Fletcher Cox (91) stops New York Giants running back Andre Williams (44) during the third quarter at Lincoln Financial Field. Mandatory Credit: Eric Hartline-USA TODAY Sports /

21. Philadelphia Eagles

Head coach Chip Kelly has drawn all the headlines in Philadelphia this season, and rightfully so. Few teams in football go through such radical changes in one offseason after winning 10 games, but Kelly was determined to redefine what the Eagles are all about. Part of that was signing corner Byron Maxwell to a six-year, $63 million deal and trading for middle linebacker Kiko Alonso.

Along with Fletcher Cox and Connor Barwin, Alonso and Maxwell will be relied upon to shoulder the burden of a defense which will certainly struggle at times. Cox is the only defensive lineman who requires attention on every play, with Cedric Thornton and Bennie Logan being average players. Barwin is a premier pass-rusher, and will need to continue being disruptive with Brandon Graham still trying to find his way.

Maxwell must prove he was worth the $63 million. After starring in Seattle’s Legion of Boom, Maxwell went from being the unknown piece of that quartet to the centerpiece. The surrounding talent took a hit when Brandon Boykin was dealt to the Pittsburgh Steelers earlier in training camp. Rookie Eric Rowe will see plenty of time along with veteran Walter Thurmond III. This defense has a ton to prove.

Next: 20. Oakland Raiders

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