Fantasy Football 2018: Ranking the top 15 defenses

PITTSBURGH, PA - JANUARY 14: Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Antonio Brown (84) eyes up Jacksonville Jaguars cornerback Jalen Ramsey (20) during the AFC Divisional Playoff game between the Jacksonville Jaguars and the Pittsburgh Steelers on January 14, 2018 at Heinz Field in Pittsburgh, Pa. (Photo by Mark Alberti/ Icon Sportswire)
PITTSBURGH, PA - JANUARY 14: Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Antonio Brown (84) eyes up Jacksonville Jaguars cornerback Jalen Ramsey (20) during the AFC Divisional Playoff game between the Jacksonville Jaguars and the Pittsburgh Steelers on January 14, 2018 at Heinz Field in Pittsburgh, Pa. (Photo by Mark Alberti/ Icon Sportswire) /
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Dallas Cowboys quarterback Mike White (3) is hit hard by Cincinnati Bengals defensive end Jordan Willis (75) in the fourth quarter for a loss in yards as the Cincinnati Bengals beat the Dallas Cowboys 21-13 on Saturday, Aug. 18, 2018 at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas. (Paul Moseley/Fort Worth Star-Telegram/TNS via Getty Images)
Dallas Cowboys quarterback Mike White (3) is hit hard by Cincinnati Bengals defensive end Jordan Willis (75) in the fourth quarter for a loss in yards as the Cincinnati Bengals beat the Dallas Cowboys 21-13 on Saturday, Aug. 18, 2018 at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas. (Paul Moseley/Fort Worth Star-Telegram/TNS via Getty Images) /

10. Denver Broncos

The combination of Von Miller and Nick Chubb figures to give opposing offenses nightmares. These are two playmaking edge rushers who will provide opportunities for the rest of the defense. However, the loss of Aqib Talib could create some problems in the secondary.

9. Cincinnati Bengals

Cincinnati is absolutely loaded with pass rushers and it has showed so far this preseason. Jordan Willis and Carl Lawson have been nearly unstoppable. The quick development of Sam Hubbard only adds more firepower.

These three will team with veterans Geno Atkins, Carlos Dunlap and Michael Johnson to make life miserable for their opponents.

8. Baltimore Ravens

The Ravens have drafted more than a few young defenders over the past few years. It appears that they are ready to contribute in a big way this season. Pass rushers like Tim Williams, Tyus Bowser and Matt Judon have looked great in the preseason.

Things in the secondary are pretty solid thanks to Marlon Humphrey’s quick adjustment to NFL competition.

7. New England Patriots

New England made an under the radar addition this offseason in Cordarrelle Patterson who provides an explosive element in the return game. He’s someone who is a constant threat to go the distance.

Defensively, the Patriots have seen strong performances from young pass rushers like Derek Rivers and Deatrich Wise Jr.

6. Houston Texans

The combination of JJ Watt, Jadeveon Clowney and Whitney Mercilus has the potential to be a dominant force. However, each has dealt with injury problems over the past few years. They all appear healthy now and are looking to live up to their potential.