Defensive Players to Watch in Free Agency
Edge Rushers to Watch
Yannick Ngakoue, once known for his relentless pursuit of quarterbacks, experienced a dip in his performance last season. Despite this recent downturn, Ngakoue's career has been notable. Over seven seasons, he consistently registered 8 or more sacks, making him a player worth keeping an eye on for teams looking to bolster their pass rush.
Another name in the edge-rushing market is Emmanuel Ogbah, who impressed with a 13.9% pressure rate last season. His ability to disrupt the pocket and pressure the quarterback makes him an enticing option for defenses in need of a playmaker.
Carl Lawson also deserves mention. After overcoming an Achilles tear, Lawson tallied 49 pressures and 7.0 sacks, showcasing not only his resilience but also his capability to be a significant threat off the edge.
Interior Defensive Linemen of Interest
Among the interior linemen, Calais Campbell stands out. Last season, he achieved 42 pressures and maintained a 10.8% pressure rate, numbers that highlight his effectiveness in disrupting opposing offenses. Campbell's veteran presence and consistent performance make him a valuable asset.
Hassan Ridgeway's previous season was unfortunately cut short after just three games due to injury. Despite this, his potential and ability when healthy should not be underestimated by teams looking for interior defensive reinforcements.
Bryan Mone is in a similar situation, having missed the entirety of the 2023 season due to injuries. Teams will be closely monitoring his recovery and potential return, considering the impact he can have when on the field.
Off-Ball Linebackers to Keep an Eye On
Zach Cunningham is a notable player among off-ball linebackers, having secured 85 tackles in just 13 games last season. His tackling ability and consistency make him a solid option for teams requiring a dependable linebacker.
Kwon Alexander and Xavier Woods have also made their marks, not only with their tackling but also through their contributions on special teams. Such versatility is highly valuable, offering teams multifaceted options in bolstering their defense and special teams units.
Cornerbacks Capable of Game-Changing Plays
Xavien Howard, over the past four seasons, has been a standout with 23 interceptions, a testament to his ability to change the course of a game on any given play. His knack for making big plays consistently places him among the top cornerbacks available.
Stephon Gilmore and Steven Nelson also delivered strong performances last season, establishing themselves as reliable defensive backs capable of shutting down opposing receivers and contributing significantly to their team's defensive efforts.
Safeties Still Available
Justin Simmons, who recorded 70 tackles and three interceptions last season, remains one of the top safeties on the market. His performance and leadership on the field have been exemplary, making him an attractive option for teams needing a boost in their secondary.
Micah Hyde and Jamal Adams, despite facing recent injuries, have left a considerable impact on the field when healthy. Their playmaking abilities and defensive intelligence have been crucial for their teams, and they will undoubtedly attract interest from teams looking to enhance their safety positions.
In conclusion, the market is rich with defensive talent, ranging from edge rushers and interior linemen to linebackers, cornerbacks, and safeties. Teams with aspirations to improve their defense will find ample opportunities among these players. Each brings a unique set of skills and accomplishments, promising to make a substantial impact wherever they land. As the season approaches, it will be intriguing to see where these talents end up and how they will continue to shape the defensive landscape of the league.