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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Nov 27, 2022; Cleveland, Ohio, USA; Cleveland Browns defensive end Myles Garrett (95) celebrates his sack against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during overtime at FirstEnergy Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Scott Galvin-USA TODAY Sports /

15. Cleveland Browns

Notable additions: DT Dalvin Tomlinson, S Juan Thornhill, EDGE Ogbonnia Okoronkwo
Notable losses: EDGE Jadeveon Clowney, S John Johnson III
2022 scoring defense: 20th
2022 yards defense: 14th

In 2022, the Browns’ defense was elite against the pass and terrible against the run. They held opposing offenses to 3,396 total passing yards (fifth-fewest in the NFL) but surrendered 2,295 total rushing yards (eighth-most in the NFL).

Heading into this season, Cleveland’s run defense will be crucial to their success. Last season, they gave up 140+ rushing yards in eight individual games. In those games, they carried a record of 1-7.

Free agent acquisition Dalvin Tomlinson is an excellent fit. Since 2017, he has a PFF run defense grade of 83.0.

Meanwhile, Juan Thornhill and Ogbonnia Okoronkwo will look to fill voids left by veterans John Johnson III and Jadeveon Clowney (both players were released). Last season, Thornhill had 71 combined tackles, four tackles for loss, and three interceptions, and Okoronkwo had a career-high five sacks.

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