NFL 2015: Ranking each defense from 32-1

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Jan 4, 2015; Arlington, TX, USA; Detroit Lions running back Reggie Bush (21) is tackled by Dallas Cowboys cornerback Brandon Carr (39) during the third quarter in the NFC Wild Card Playoff Game at AT&T Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matthew Emmons-USA TODAY Sports /

15. Dallas Cowboys

This might come as a surprise to some people. The Cowboys are not seen as a top-half-of-the-league defense, but yet the pieces are there for this group to play very well. Last year, defensive coordinator Rod Marinelli installed his 4-3 defense and showed that he could get plenty out of a mediocre group, helping the Cowboys go 12-4 and win the NFC East.

Dallas did not lose any impact player off the defensive side in the offseason, but added a couple of pass-rushers in second-round pick Randy Gregory and defensive end Greg Hardy, who is suspended for the first four games of the season. At the linebacker level, the Cowboys are welcoming back Sean Lee, who missed all of last season with a torn ACL. Rolando McClain was re-signed but is also suspended for the first quarter of the season.

The only real question mark is against the pass when Hardy and Gregory can’t hit the quarterback. Brandon Carr is coming off surgery on his right hand and has been lackluster over the past few seasons. On the other side is Orlando Scandrick, a decent player with upside. The safeties also leave something to be desired with Barry Church and J.J. Wilcox penciled in as starters.

Next: 14. Arizona Cardinals

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