Former NFL standout Byron Jones has released his highly anticipated 2025 NFL Defensive Rankings, spotlighting the league’s most dominant defenders by position, as well as the top defensive units across all 32 teams. From interior linemen to cornerbacks, here’s a breakdown of the league’s elite on the defensive side of the ball.
Top 5 Interior Defensive Linemen (IDL) – 2025
- Dexter Lawrence – New York Giants A disruptive force in the middle, Lawrence anchors the Giants’ defensive line with elite strength and explosiveness.
- Chris Jones – Kansas City Chiefs One of the most consistent and versatile linemen in the NFL, Jones remains a nightmare for opposing offenses.
- Jalen Carter – Philadelphia Eagles The young star continues to elevate his game, combining raw power with elite athleticism.
- Quinnen Williams – New York Jets A top-tier pass rusher from the inside, Williams is central to the Jets’ stout defensive identity.
- Leonard Williams – Seattle Seahawks A veteran presence with high motor and production, Williams has helped solidify Seattle’s front line.
Top 5 Linebackers – 2025
- Fred Warner – San Francisco 49ers A complete linebacker with elite instincts, coverage skills, and leadership.
- Bobby Wagner – Washington Commanders The seasoned veteran remains one of the most intelligent and productive linebackers in football.
- Dre Greenlaw – Denver Broncos Fast, physical, and underrated, Greenlaw has emerged as a core piece of Denver’s resurgent defense.
- Zack Baun – Philadelphia Eagles Baun has made his mark as a hybrid playmaker, contributing in both pass rush and coverage.
- Bobby Okereke – New York Giants A tackling machine who’s become the heart of the Giants’ defense.
Top 5 Safeties – 2025
- Kyle Hamilton – Baltimore Ravens An elite safety with unmatched range and physicality, Hamilton is a difference-maker in all phases.
- Xavier McKinney – Green Bay Packers A versatile and reliable presence in the Packers’ secondary, McKinney excels in both coverage and run support.
- Antoine Winfield Jr. – Tampa Bay Buccaneers Known for his instincts and leadership, Winfield continues to be one of the league’s most impactful safeties.
- Derwin James – Los Angeles Chargers A hybrid defensive weapon who can line up anywhere, James remains a cornerstone of the Chargers’ defense.
- Brian Branch – Detroit Lions One of the NFL’s rising stars, Branch brings toughness and playmaking ability to the Lions’ secondary.
Top 5 Cornerbacks – 2025
- Sauce Gardner – New York Jets Dominant in press coverage with elite ball skills, Gardner is arguably the NFL’s top shutdown corner.
- Pat Surtain II – Denver Broncos A smooth technician and consistent lockdown defender, Surtain continues to lead Denver’s secondary.
- Trent McDuffie – Kansas City Chiefs A smart and speedy corner, McDuffie thrives in zone and man coverage alike.
- Derek Stingley Jr. – Houston Texans Injury-free and playing up to potential, Stingley has become a cornerstone of Houston’s defense.
- DJ Reed – Detroit Lions Underrated but highly productive, Reed has brought energy and stability to Detroit’s improving defense.
Top 10 NFL Defenses – Team Rankings (2025)
- Denver Broncos
- Houston Texans
- Philadelphia Eagles
- Baltimore Ravens
- Minnesota Vikings
- Detroit Lions
- Seattle Seahawks
- Pittsburgh Steelers
- Green Bay Packers
- Buffalo Bills
Final Thoughts
Byron Jones’ 2025 rankings shine a light on the NFL’s evolving defensive landscape. With a mix of veteran superstars and rising young talents, defenses across the league are becoming faster, more versatile, and increasingly dominant. Expect many of these names to make a major impact during the 2025 season—and perhaps earn All-Pro and Pro Bowl honors by year’s end.