NFL 2015: Ranking each defense from 32-1

10. Carolina Panthers

The Panthers have won the NFC South title each of the past two seasons, but have not been able to advance past the NFC Divisional round. If Carolina is going to make it further this time around, the Panthers will need the defense to take the performance up another notch or two. The offense continues to be led by the mediocre Cam Newton, who needs to be propped up.

If Newton is to be helped, the leader of the defense must show the way. Middle linebacker Luke Kuechly has been among the leaders in tackles throughout the league over the past three seasons, showcasing his ability to both drop in coverage and come downhill in the run game. Few players have the complete skill set that Kuechly possesses, including his sideline-to-sideline speed.

The secondary is the only stumbling block for the Panthers, who certainly have something to prove in the backfield. The quartet of Josh Norman, Roman Harper, Kurt Coleman and Charles Tillman are not scaring any offensive coordinator. If the Panthers are going to avoid being completely torched by good quarterbacks, the pass rush needs to be good.

Next: 9. Cleveland Browns