Power ranking the NFL defenses for 2019

ARLINGTON, TEXAS - JANUARY 05: Russell Wilson #3 of the Seattle Seahawks is sacked by Demarcus Lawrence #90 of the Dallas Cowboys in the first half during the Wild Card Round at AT&T Stadium on January 05, 2019 in Arlington, Texas. (Photo by Ronald Martinez/Getty Images) /

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Minnesota Vikings v Detroit Lions /

8. Minnesota Vikings

2018 Review: One season after giving up the fewest total yards and points in the league, this unit took some time to regain its standout form. The Vikings weren’t as stingy against the run (15th in the NFL) as they were in 2017, when they allowed the second-fewest rushing yards. Still, Mike Zimmer’s team surrendered only 28 offensive touchdowns in 16 games, including 18 such scores in their final 12 outings. Minnesota racked up an impressive 50 sacks (14.5 by Danielle Hunter). But once again, the team came up with a modest amount of takeaways (20).

2019 Key Additions: The team did not do a lot in free agency, signing defensive tackle Shamar Stephen (who returns to the team after a year in Seattle) and cornerback Bene Benwikere. General manager Rick Spielman used four of an NFL-high 12 draft choices to add depth to this unit: Linebacker Cameron Smith (5-USC), defensive tackle Armon Watts (6-Arkansas), safety Marcus Epps (6b-Wyoming) and cornerback Kris Boyd, CB (7-Texas).

Analysis: The Vikings figure to pick up where they left off following that shaky start. This unit is loaded with first-round talent that has performed well over a sustained period of time. Led by Hunter these days, this unit has proven it can get after the quarterback. But this group must perform better against opposing ground attacks. The only thing holding this unit back from being ranked a little higher at the moment is the recent lack of takeaways.

Next: No. 7

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