NFL 2015: Ranking each defense from 32-1

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Feb 1, 2015; Glendale, AZ, USA; Seattle Seahawks running back Marshawn Lynch (24) runs the ball against New England Patriots defensive end Rob Ninkovich (50) and New England Patriots outside linebacker Jamie Collins (91) in Super Bowl XLIX at University of Phoenix Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Richard Mackson-USA TODAY Sports /

26. New England Patriots

Yes, the defending Super Bowl champions are being ranked 26th, despite checking in 13th in 2014. Why? Because you don’t lose Darrelle Revis, Brandon Browner and Vince Wilfork without some serious consequences. Wilfork is nearing the end of his terrific road, but he is still one of the premiere run-stuffers in the game. Browner leads the world in penalties, but he can play. And, of course, Revis is Revis.

Furthermore, the Patriots were too strapped against the salary cap to replace these guys. In the draft, Bill Belichick was able to steal defensive end Malcom Brown from the University of Texas, but that figures to be a project over a year or two. The linebackers are still very good with Jerod Mayo, Rob Ninkovich, Chandler Jones and Jamie Collins, but the other two levels are alarming.

Malcolm Butler will forever be a hero for his championship-sealing interception, but starting him across from Bradley Fletcher is going to be major trouble. Patrick Chung is also one of the worst starting safeties in the league, which is why Belichick let him walk years ago, only to see him return. Up front, the defensive tackles are weak in Sealver Silaga and Dominique Easley. If the linebackers sustain injuries, this is a terrible unit. As it stands, it is not good.

Next: 25. San Diego Chargers

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