NFL power rankings: Which teams will have the best defense?

NFL power rankings: Which teams will have the best defense this season?

Dec 18, 2022; Denver, Colorado, USA; Denver Broncos safety Justin Simmons (31) celebrates his second interception with Denver Broncos cornerback Pat Surtain II (2) against the Arizona Cardinals at Empower Field at Mile High. Mandatory Credit: Ron Chenoy-USA TODAY Sports /

11 of 32

Jan 8, 2023; Atlanta, Georgia, USA; Atlanta Falcons cornerback A.J. Terrell (24) before a game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-USA TODAY Sports /

22. Atlanta Falcons

Notable additions: S Jessie Bates III, DT David Onyemata, OLB Kaden Eliss, DE Calais Campbell, CB Jeff Okudah
Notable losses: N/A
2022 scoring defense: 23rd
2022 yards defense: 27th

The Falcons are bringing in four high-impact defensive players: Jessie Bates III, David Onyemata, Kaden Eliss, and Calais Campbell.

Bates is an elite NFL safety. He is known for his ball skills, as he racked up 14 interceptions in five seasons. However, he has been a strong run defender, as well. Last season, he posted a PFF run defense grade of 88.3.

Onyemata was a reliable presence in the heart of the Saints’ defense. Over the past three seasons, his 11.4 pressure percentage is the 11th-highest among interior defenders, per PFF.

Eliss is a former seventh-round pick. After playing limited snaps over the first three years of his career, he broke out in 2022, recording 78 combined tackles and seven sacks.

Campbell is a versatile defensive lineman. The 36-year-old remains a formidable run defender and pass rusher.

In addition, they made low-risk, high-reward trade in acquiring former third-overall pick Jeff Okudah. The Falcons’ secondary suddenly has a lot of upside with Bates, Okudah, and All-Pro cornerback A.J. Terrell.

Home/Arizona Cardinals