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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Oct 23, 2022; Charlotte, North Carolina, USA; Carolina Panthers defensive end Brian Burns (53) reacts after sacking Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Tom Brady (12) (not pictured) in the second quarter at Bank of America Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Bob Donnan-USA TODAY Sports /

19. Carolina Panthers

Notable additions: S Vonn Bell, DT Shy Tuttle
Notable losses: N/A
2022 scoring defense: 19th
2022 yards defense: 22nd

Brian Burns is a bonafide superstar. The two-time Pro Bowl selection had a career-high 12.5 sacks last season. Since 2020, Burns is ninth in the NFL in total sacks (30.5).

Cornerback Jaycee Horn took a leap forward in his second year. He was targeted 60 times and allowed an opponent passer rating of 62.4 (11th-best in the NFL).

Bell is a quality, all-around safety. Last season, he hauled in a career-high four interceptions. He is known primarily for pass coverage, but he is a capable run defender, as well. Over the past five years, he posted an 88.7 PFF run defense grade, the eighth-best among safeties.

In 2022, the Panthers found themselves in the middle of the pack in several key metrics. They were 18th in rushing yards allowed and 22nd in the passing yards allowed.

As a whole, the Panthers’ defense should continue to be fine, albeit unspectacular in 2023.

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