NFL 2015: Ranking each defense from 32-1

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Nov 2, 2014; Minneapolis, MN, USA; Minnesota Vikings defensive end Brian Robison (96) sacks Washington Redskins quarterback Robert Griffin (10) during the third quarter at TCF Bank Stadium. The Vikings defeated the Redskins 29-26. Mandatory Credit: Brace Hemmelgarn-USA TODAY Sports /

16. Minnesota Vikings

This defense has a chance of being very good. The Vikings used the draft to upgrade two different layers of the defense, with cornerback Trae Waynes going in the first round and inside linebacker Eric Kendricks coming to Minnesota one round later. General manager Rick Spielman was lauded for the picks, giving the Vikings a major infusion of young talent.

This defense is without many holes. The front seven has a pair of quality defensive ends in Everson Griffen and Brian Robison. Last year, the duo combined for 16.5 sacks in 2014, with 12 coming from Griffen. On the interior of the line, former first-round pick Sharrif Floyd and Linval Joseph have been stout against the run, ranking ninth and 22th against the run last year, per Pro Football Focus.

Harrison Smith is the most underrated safety in the game, playing both the run and pass with equal effectiveness. He is flanked by Antone Exum Jr., who still has plenty to prove headed into his second season. On the outside, Terence Newman and Xavier Rhodes will need to hold up. Newman is on the last legs of a terrific career, while Rhodes is hoping to make the first-round investment on him look wise.

Next: 15. Dallas Cowboys

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