NFL 2015: Ranking each defense from 32-1

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Dec 28, 2014; Kansas City, MO, USA; Kansas City Chiefs outside linebacker Justin Houston (50) celebrates after a sack against the San Diego Chargers in the first half at Arrowhead Stadium. Mandatory Credit: John Rieger-USA TODAY Sports /

2. Kansas City Chiefs

This group has the potential to be something special. In Dec. 2014, strong safety Eric Berry was diagnosed with Hodgkin Lymphoma. It was a devastating moment in Berry’s life, and now the young man has rebounded to rejoin his team in training camp. Considering the rest of the talent around the three-time Pro Bowler, Kansas City is more dangerous than it has been in years.

Up front, the Chiefs will be without nose tackle Dontari Poe for the first few games due to back surgery. However, Kansas City has a quality rotation of Mike DeVito, Jaye Howard and Allen Bailey. Howard came on last year after DeVito suffered a season-ending Achilles injury in Week 1, showcasing his skills. The linebackers are the best group in football with Justin Houston, Tamba Hali and Derrick Johnson. All three are All-Pros, and Houston is coming off a 22-sack campaign.

Last year, the Chiefs did not allow one 300-yard passer or a passing play over 50 yards, the only team which can claim that in both categories. Kansas City returns that same unit and adds Berry and first-round pick Marcus Peters into the mix. Peters has been a sensation at camp, nabbing three interceptions in the team’s first padded practice. The second-ranked scoring defense from 2014 is miles better this time around.

Next: 1. Seattle Seahawks

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