1. New York Jets – This is the obvious choice here, with everyone returning from last years number 1 rated team, why would they start to drop off? The Jets gave up a measly 153.7 passing yards per game last year. Expect that number to go down even farther because of their trade for Antonio Cromartie, who is just another shutdown corner playing with the best corner in the game, Darrelle Revis. Another reason is their RFA pick up of Jason Taylor, who can contribute with his explosive pass rush on third downs, creating even less time for the opposing QBs to throw the ball and pick up big chunks of yardage. Darrelle Revis had his breakout year last season and has the confidence plus the skills to shut down any wide receiver in the game of football. Along with the pick up of Kyle Wilson, who could move to the safety position and play beside Jim Leonhard. The Jets secondary is the best in the game with young talent, and they can only get even better this year.
2. Buffalo Bills – The Bills are also loaded with young talent. The most explosive player on this team last year was Jairus Byrd, he exploded right out of college and was tied for the league lead in interceptions. Along with veteran corners such as Terrence McGee and Drayton Florence, the Bills also have Leodis McKelvin, who is an explosive young corner. Opposite of Jairus Byrd, the Bills have Donte Whitner, who is a wiley veteran and is one of the hardest hitters in the league. Along with this fantastic secondary, the Bills have Paul Posluszny, who is a fantastic young linebacker that plays well in coverage. The Bills are built to play the pass very well, and their run support should improve in 2010, helping the pass defense even more.
3. Pittsburgh Steelers – No one can deny the greatness of the Steelers’ defense when Troy Polamalu is healthy. He is simply the single most influential defensive player in the NFL, and can alter a game with one ridiculous play. Combine Troy Polamalu with gritty veterans Ike Taylor, Bryant McFadden, and William Gay, the Steelers secondary becomes nearly unbeatable. Another very important aspect of Pittsburgh’s defense is Ryan Clark, who can hit so hard that he injures even the toughest guys in the league (*cough* Willis McGahee *cough*). However, the main reason that I believe their pass defense will be so good is the pressure that James Harrison and company (Woodley and Timmons) will get on the QB. The QB will be so worried about getting knocked upside his head that he will rush throws that will lead to turnovers.
These are the three pass defenses in the NFL that I believe will be the most difficult to air it out on. Watch out getting behind on these guys because you will not be able to pass your way back into the game!
Feel free to disagree with this list and post them in the comments sections below or message me and tell my why I’m dumb to my face!
Written by TimShroeder546