NFL 2015: Ranking each defense from 32-1

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Dec 28, 2014; Minneapolis, MN, USA; Chicago Bears defensive end Jared Allen (69) rushes against the Minnesota Vikings in the second quarter at TCF Bank Stadium. The Vikings win 13-9. Mandatory Credit: Bruce Kluckhohn-USA TODAY Sports /

28. Chicago Bears

This is a perfect example of why teams lose for years. The Bears had the seventh-overall pick in the draft and could have helped out the defense in numerous ways. Instead, general manager Ryan Pace took Kevin White, a talented but unnecessary receiver. As a result, Chicago is stuck with a defense that resembles the past couple of years. In other words, devastation is on the way.

The Bears were active in free agency, landing former Baltimore Ravens outside linebacker Pernell McPhee. McPhee will immediately become one of the focal points in Vic Fangio’s defense, trying to cause chaos from the edge opposite of Willie Young. Jared Allen and LaMarr Houston are also going to be getting some sacks, likely from different positions in exotic formations.

So why is Chicago ranked so low here? The Bears are going to struggle in a major way against the run. Jonathan Bostic and Mason Foster are decent middle linebackers, but neither is considered a thumper. Meanwhile, Jay Ratliff is getting long in the tooth and the secondary lacks an elite playmaker. This is a group of 11 guys without anybody who stands out.

Next: 27. San Francisco 49ers

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