NFL 2015: Ranking each defense from 32-1

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Dec 21, 2014; Glendale, AZ, USA; Arizona Cardinals cornerback Patrick Peterson (21) reacts alongside safety Tyrann Mathieu (32) in the second half against the Seattle Seahawks at University of Phoenix Stadium. The Seahawks defeated the Cardinals 35-6. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports /

14. Arizona Cardinals

Last year, the Cardinals were able to consistently capitalize on turnovers. If Arizona is going to once again be one of the top defenses in the NFL, it will need to be opportunistic because much of the talent moved on. This offseason, nose tackle Dan Williams and cornerback Antonio Cromartie moved on in free agency, leaving for the Oakland Raiders and New York Jets, respectively.

Corey Peters is replacing Williams, downgrading the line against the run but keeping it status quo versus the pass. The linebackers did get an infusion of talent with Sean Weatherspoon coming over from the Atlanta Falcons after he sat out all of last season with an Achilles injury. It will be interesting if Alex Okafor and Matt Shaughnessy can help Calais Campbell provide a better pass rush. Last year, Okafor led the team with eight sacks.

Of course, the star of this unit is Patrick Peterson. Peterson has been nothing but electrifying since coming into the league as a first-round pick out of LSU, providing ample talent for both special teams and defense. Peterson has been named a Pro Bowler all four years of his career, with All-Pro designations in 2011 and 2013. This is a group with plenty of talent, and could take the next step if the pass rush improves.

Next: 13. Denver Broncos

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