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 /

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Dec 4, 2022; Inglewood, California, USA; Seattle Seahawks cornerback Tariq Woolen (27) celebrates after intercepting a pass intended for Los Angeles Rams running back Kyren Williams (23) during the first half at SoFi Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports /

20. Seattle Seahawks

Notable additions: CB Devon Witherspoon, DE Dre’Mont Jones, S Julian Love, ILB Bobby Wagner, DT Jarran Reed
Notable losses: ILB Cody Barton
2022 scoring defense: 25th
2022 yards defense: 26th

Pro Bowl selection Tariq Woolen and fifth overall pick Devon Witherspoon should make up one of the best cornerback duos in the NFL. Last season, Woolen was outstanding. In coverage, he allowed an opponent passer rating of 48.7 (best in the NFL). He made plenty of splash plays, as well; his six interceptions were tied for the most in the league. Meanwhile, Witherspoon is coming off a tremendous season at Illinois, in which he was named the Tatum–Woodson Defensive Back of the Year.

Last season, Seattle’s pass rush was quietly effective, recording 45 total sacks (tied for seventh-most in the NFL). The group was led by Uchenna Nwosu and Darrell Taylor, who posted 9.5 sacks each. The young duo will look to maintain that momentum in 2023.

The biggest x-factor for the Seahawks will be their run defense. In 2022, they gave up the third-most rushing yards per game (150.2). Bobby Wagner, Dre’Mont Jones, and Jarran Reed should help fill that need, but will it be enough?

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