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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Mar 1, 2023; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Pittsburgh defensive lineman Calijah Kancey (DL09) speaks to the press at the NFL Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Trevor Ruszkowski-USA TODAY Sports /

12. Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Notable additions: DT Calijah Kancey, DT Greg Gaines
Notable losses: DT Rakeem Nunez-Roches, CB Sean Murphy-Bunting
2022 scoring defense: 13th
2022 yards defense: 9th

Given their circumstances, the Buccaneers did a remarkable job of managing their defense this offseason. With little cap space, they were able to retain cornerback Jamel Dean, linebacker Lavonte David, and edge rusher Anthony Nelson.

In addition, Calijah Kancey has sky-high potential. The defensive tackle put on a show at the NFL combine. His 4.67-second 40-yard dash was the fastest by a defensive tackle in the history of the combine; the previous record-holder was Aaron Donald. Prior to the draft, I graded him as the top defensive tackle on my big board, ahead of Jalen Carter.

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