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; East Rutherford, New Jersey, USA; Washington Commanders defensive tackle Daron Payne (94) reacts to a defensive play against the New York Giants during overtime at MetLife Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Rich Barnes-USA TODAY Sports /

9. Washington Commanders

Notable additions: CB Emmanuel Forbes, ILB Cody Barton
Notable losses: ILB Cole Holcomb
2022 scoring defense: 7th
2022 yards defense: 3rd

In 2022, the Commanders allowed the fourth-fewest passing yards (3,252) and 11th-fewest rushing yards (1,926). Over the final 12 games, they gave up only 17.9 points per game; over the course of the season, that would have been tied for the second-fewest in the league.

This offseason, the Commanders largely stood pat on the defensive side of the ball, which was the right call. Additionally, 2020 NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year Chase Young will return to the field. He was inactive for the first 15 weeks of the 2022 season; he returned for the final three games of the regular season.

First-round pick Emmanuel Forbes is projected to play a significant role as a rookie. Across three collegiate seasons, he recorded 14 interceptions. In 2022, his 87.2 PFF grade ranked 16th among 917 qualifying cornerbacks.

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