chelsea had already placed Ousmane Diomande high on their defensive shortlist for the summer. However, now, bournemouth Sporting are also on the move for the defender as the race for the Premier League grows closer to them.

The 22-year-old centre-back has become one of the hottest defensive names on the market after a season that has boosted his reputation across Europe.

Initially, the strongest English interest came from Crystal Palace, which Traced a move worth almost €50m (£43m) last year. Since then, the market around Diomande has changed dramatically.

Paris Saint-Germain, Bayern Munich, Newcastle United and Manchester United have all been linked at various stages.

However, Chelsea remains different because of its Clear need for defensive reinforcement.

Chelsea sees Diomande as ideal profile

Latest reports from Portuguese outlets game Diomonde is already said to be one of Chelsea’s defensive targets under new manager Xabi Alonso.

Chelsea spent large parts of the season struggling with defensive instability. Injuries, inconsistency and frequent changes at centre-back caused major problems throughout the campaign.

And of course Alonso hasn’t even officially started at Stamford Bridge yet, but planning for the next transfer window is already underway.

The report presents Diomande as one of the names being discussed for Chelsea’s defensive rebuild ahead of the new era under the Spaniard.

Bournemouth now entering the picture

The latest development in this story is the emergence of Bournemouth. According to the same report, the south coast club are looking at Diomande as a possible replacement for Marcos Senesi.

It introduces another Premier League contender into an already crowded race.

Bournemouth may not operate at the same level as Chelsea, PSG or Bayern Munich financially, but their emergence in the race should not be underestimated.

Unlike Chelsea, the south coast club have already secured European football for next season, and this could become a key factor in talks about the defender’s future.

Under its current structure, Bournemouth has developed into one of the most competitive and well-organized emerging projects in English football.

Their recruitment has been aggressive and smart, and clubs are willing to compete for players who have previously overlooked that level of Premier League team.

Sports conscious pressure is increasing

Sporting renewed Diomande’s contract earlier this year until 2030 and retained his €80m (£69m) release clause.

Nevertheless, Portuguese reports indicate that the club would negotiate below that figure if the right offer came forward.

That number is also increasing. Earlier discussions centered around €50m (£43m). Recent reports suggest that Sporting can now expect a move closer to €60m (£52m).

And with the World Cup around the corner, it’s likely that valuations will rise further.

Chelsea clearly remain serious contenders due to their need for a defensive upgrade and Xabi Alonso’s interest in the player.

But Bournemouth joining the race is another sign that the market for Diomande is moving fast – and becoming increasingly difficult for any one club to control.

Here are the Montreal Canadiens and NHL news items you may have missed on Thursday.

montreal canadiens news

• The Canadiens found themselves in a hole early in Game 5 against the Buffalo Sabres, but as has been the case all year, they were at their best once they faced a little adversity. The Habs’ dominant effort led to a thrilling 6-3 win in Buffalo. [Canadiens Highlights: Comeback Kings Crush Sabres]

• Given that defenseman Arbor Zekaj played less than 4 minutes in Game 4, there was talk that he would be replaced in the lineup for Game 5 by Jaden Struble. All things considered, the third pairing is a no-brainer. More than anything, depth defensemen need consistency to find their rhythm. [Canadiens Defensive Situation: Xhekaj Or Struble]

• With all due respect to Lindy Ruff, the diving accusations of Game 4 are as old as milk.

Slafkowski tapped on the helmet, closed out for high-sticking.

G5’s first penalty: pic.twitter.com/LWz7fZftUl

– Montreal Hockey Now (@MTLhockeynow) 15 May 2026

• They weren’t the worst cases of embellishment in NHL history, but the adage about houses of stone and glass comes to mind.

Dobbs, Czekaj, and the Oscar-worthy response: pic.twitter.com/l48wqyWRdh

– Montreal Hockey Now (@MTLhockeynow) 15 May 2026

• Regardless of the outcome of Thursday night’s Game 5, it’s always interesting to hear Martin St.-Louis’ calm and straightforward approach to coaching hockey.

“Play the way we know it.” @sportsnetkyle Chatting with Marty St. Louis before Game 5 in Buffalo pic.twitter.com/mFkI8AcA10

– Sportsnet (@Sportsnet) 14 May 2026

• Victoire is also known for her fair share of late-game drama. Montreal tied Game 1 of the PWHL Finals in the final seconds of the third period, and went on to win it in overtime when a puck bounced off Abby Roque’s head.

Are. You. Just kidding.

Victoire tied the game with 2.1 seconds to go in regulation!

It’s Nicole Gosling! #PWHL pic.twitter.com/kIFCw2W8nN

– TSN (@TSN_Sports) 15 May 2026

• Game 6 is scheduled for Saturday night at 8 p.m., an odd start time to say the least. And now, let’s have a different start time for Game 7 if necessary. The final game of the series, scheduled for Monday, has been postponed to 7 to 7:30 pm ET.

Schedule Update: @CanadiensMTL versus @BuffaloSabres Potential Game 7 set for May 18 at 7:30 pm ET. https://t.co/Me1thpZ11p #Stanley Cup pic.twitter.com/jZVOpngzwL

– NHL Public Relations (@NHLPR) 14 May 2026

• Former Hub Brett Kulak is clearly a lucky charm. Following his trade to the Colorado Avalanche, the veteran defender is headed to the conference finals for the fifth time in just six years.

Brett Kulak reached the West Finals for the 5th time in 6 years
2021 : MTL
2022, 2024 and 2025: EDM
2026 : Colonel

– Guillaume Villemaire (@GVillemaire13) 14 May 2026

• I have to admit, this is the first time I’ve seen this aquatic pre-game ritual between zekas and athletic therapists.

Our healers are hot, the match can begin

Our healers are warmed up, now the games can begin#GoHabsGo pic.twitter.com/N78BWLfZAW

– X – Canadiens Montreal (@CanadiensMTL) 14 May 2026

• Tage Thompson was right to suggest that the Sabers need to take fewer penalties in Game 5. For what it’s worth, the Sabers avoided penalties for more than 40 minutes on Thursday night.

According to Tage Thompson, the Sabers need to be more disciplined. pic.twitter.com/b3QZH8tTSQ

– TVA Sports (@TVASports) 14 May 2026

• And they say sports should be fun!

#GoHabsGo pic.twitter.com/tpeIA3HJO0

– Montreal Hockey Now (@MTLhockeynow) 14 May 2026

Sportsknot Network

• Sunny Mehta was brought in as general manager to be adventurous, and he certainly has the opportunity to do that this summer via the New Jersey Devils trade. Mehta’s background shows that he is willing to take risks as a former professional poker player, an options trader, and even became a professional musician. So, why wouldn’t he at least try to acquire Quinn Hughes? [New Jersey Devils]

• Who will be the new head coach of the Edmonton Oilers? J Woodcroft? Craig Berube? Bruce Cassidy? Jessica Campbell? The Oilers did what everyone expected and fired head coach Chris Knoblauch. Additionally, he relieved Mark Stuart of his coaching duties. Oilers general manager Stan Bowman issued a statement on May 14, making the move official. [Edmonton Oilers]

• The Toronto Maple Leafs’ new brain trust John Chayka and Mats Sundin have not yet had their talks with captain Auston Matthews. But when they do, they hope to find out what his intentions are. [Toronto Maple Leafs]

Mark has been covering the Habs for over a decade. He previously worked for the Journal Metro, The Athletic, The… More about Mark Dumont

The Montreal Canadiens have had a relatively stable duo in the playoffs, but a change could be in the works.

When evaluating Montreal’s defensive pairings, the results are quite curious. In this particular case, we’re only discussing their 5v5 numbers vs. the Sabres, so, the sample size is limited, but it gives us a pretty good idea of ​​how things have unfolded on the blue line.

Defensive Pairings at 5v5 (vs. Sabres)

The eye test tells us that the duo of Mike Matheson and Alexander Carrier lag behind by a wide margin, and it’s reflected in the numbers. They have managed to control just over 45 percent of their shots, which is far from ideal.

And yet, the fact that they are facing the opposing team’s best players suggests that they are facing higher quality competition than their peers, making their 59% control of high-danger chances an impressive number.

It’s almost the opposite situation for the second pairing, which currently consists of Noah Dobson and Lane Hutson. They controlled more shots than any other pair, but they were lagging behind by a fairly wide margin.

And finally, when it comes to the third pairing of Arbor Zekaj and Caden Guhle, they’re working with an even smaller sample size, but the early results are nothing to write home about.

Montreal Canadiens Brass Tacks

Neither Zekaj nor Jaden Struble practiced on Thursday, meaning there’s a chance the former will have to make way for the latter in the lineup.

Czekaj played only 3:46 minutes on Tuesday, which was the least amount of playing time given to any player on either team, indicating that he was likely falling out of favor with head coach Martin Saint-Louis.

And yet, his replacement in the lineup will likely ease the toughness at a time when the Sabers are going out of their way to increase the physicality of every single inning.

That doesn’t mean Struble is a withered flower, as he can certainly bring a significant element of violence to the table, however, it’s worth noting that he only spent 17 minutes at 5v5 with Guhle in the entire regular season.

But if Struble’s play allows St.-Louis to build its pairings with less apprehension and more confidence, it would be a significant win from a roster construction standpoint.

All Montreal Canadiens stats are 5v5, via Natural Stat Trick, unless otherwise noted.

Mark has been covering the Habs for over a decade. He previously worked for the Journal Metro, The Athletic, The… More about Mark Dumont

Finding a goal in Game 2 proved as difficult as finding a single-zero roulette wheel in a Vegas casino for the Vegas Golden Knights (1-1), falling 3-1 to the Anaheim Ducks (1-1) on Wednesday night at T-Mobile Arena. Great play from Anaheim goaltender Lucas Dostal and two missed defensive assignments by the Golden Knights, which led directly to Anaheim goals, proved to be the difference in the game.

Although the first period was scoreless, it was not due to lack of opportunities. Anaheim had a golden opportunity to score the game’s first goal early in the first period when the Golden Knights took four consecutive penalties. First, Tomas Hertl was assessed a two-minute minor for high-sticking John Carlson at 3:14, then Mitch Marner was whistled for delay of game for shooting the puck out of play, and then just when things seemed like they couldn’t get any worse for the Golden Knights, Jack Eichel took a double-minor for high-sticking Mikael Granlund at 5:33.

The Anaheim power play shot an astonishing 50% in the first round against Edmonton, but went 0-4 in Game 1 and then went 0-4 on four consecutive first period chances in Game 2. The Golden Knights’ penalty kill was so effective that Anaheim recorded zero shots during a combined 1:42 of 5-on-3 play. The Golden Knights penalty kill has been stellar so far in the playoffs, boasting a 95% success rate before an ideal five-on-five performance in Game 2.

Besides the Golden Knights’ penalty kill, the other storyline of the first period was shot inconsistency. The Golden Knights went 12+ minutes without a shot, including a two-minute power play opportunity where they did not attempt a single shot. The Golden Knights recorded a shot from Hertl at 16:46 of the first and did not get another shot until Ben Hutton had a shot on goal at 3:57. Overall, the Golden Knights were outshot 13-4 in the first.

The Golden Knights may have noticed the shot inconsistency in the first because they came out firing in the second, recording three shots on goal in the first minute of the frame and outscoring Anaheim 11-7 in the period. Despite the Golden Knights taking a greater amount of shots in the second period, it would be Anaheim who would get the first goal of the game. A defensive lapse by the Golden Knights left rookie Beckett Seneca (2) open in front of their net, allowing him to receive a Jeffrey Wiel pass from below the goal line and he immediately took the puck, beating Golden Knights netminder Carter Hart to his blocking side at 11:23 of the second. It was only the second time in eight playoff games that Anaheim scored the first goal of the game.

With exactly two minutes left in the second, Anaheim got its fifth power play opportunity and a chance to take a two-goal lead, but the Golden Knights penalty kill once again came into play and the score remained 1–0 heading into the third period.

Another missed defensive assignment by the Golden Knights gave the Ducks an elusive two-goal lead at 6:36 of the third. Leo Karlsson (4) was left alone in front of the Golden Knights net and was able to receive a beautiful backhand, cross-ice pass from Troy Terry and chip the puck up and over the glove Hart, who had no chance to make the play.

The Golden Knights got their third power play chance of the game with 8:23 left in regulation and nearly scored on a wild scramble in front of the Anaheim net. With Dostel stretched flat on the ice, exposing a wide-open net, Ducks forward Mikael Granlund made a glove save on the Golden Knights’ shot attempt, destroying what little momentum the Golden Knights had generated from the man-advantage.

Trailing by two, the Golden Knights pulled Hart for an extra attacker with four minutes remaining in regulation, but Anaheim immediately scored into an empty net to take a 3–0 lead. Just when a shutout seemed inevitable for Anaheim, the Golden Knights got a late power play, during which Mark Stone (3) deflected an Eichel shot with just six seconds remaining, ruining Dostal’s shutout bid, which would have been Anaheim’s first shutout all season.

With the series now tied at 1-1, the venue will change to the Honda Center with Game 3 taking place on Friday night.

notes

Dating back to the regular season, Tomas Hertl has now played 28 games without scoring a goal.

Ivan Barbashev’s seven-game playoff points streak was snapped.

figures

Shots on goal for the game favored the Ducks, 28–22.

The number of hits each was even at 39.

Faceoff winning percentage favored the Golden Knights 63.2% to 36.8%.

Blocked shots favored the Golden Knights 19-14.

The Golden Knights had 19 rebounds, while the Ducks had 15.

Dynamo Dresden’s Kofi Amoako has emerged as a new target leeds united Beyond the summer window.

The defensive midfielder joined the second division German club from VfL Wolfsburg in July 2025.

Before that, witness the game Covered claims from Germany Chelsea’s interest in the 20-year-old player. However, the Blues made no solid progress a year ago and Leeds United are now their latest partners from England.

The Germany U21 international played 2,165 minutes in 31 matches this season.

His league statistics per game this season are as follows:

• Appearances: 30
• Total minutes played: 2,086
• Intercept: 0.6
• Tackle: 2.0
• Possession won (final third): 0.2
• Recovery: 2.7
• Clearance: 1.7
• Blocked Shots: 0.2
• Duel won: 3.9

Leeds United will face competition

Kofi Amoako’s performances for Dynamo Dresden have already been noticed by several Bundesliga sides.

is according to imageWhich state Union Berlin, Hamburg SV, and 1. FSV Mainz 05 have already shown interest. Daniel Farke’s side have now joined the race as the Whites are also keen.

What would it mean for Leeds United to enter the war ‘Significant increase in transfer fees’ For Dynamo Dresden.

So far, a fee of around €2m has been quoted, but this is now likely to rise. In the last window, third division German team Hansa Rostock sold Ryan Naderi to Rangers for €6m. Using this transfer as an example, Bild points out that the money involved is on a ‘completely different scale’ to that in the UK.

In other words, Dynamo Dresden may be able to collect more than €2m for Amoako as Leeds United have now joined the fray.

Wolfsburg, which collected €200,000 last year, will receive 10% of the profits from its sale.

leeds united have options

transfer market Kofi Amoako is worth €2m. The Elland Road club are ‘keen’ to sign him, but he is not the only defensive midfielder on their agenda.

On March 21, Khel Sakshi Covered claims from Portugal Hidemasa Morita is likely to join Leeds United. The Whites wanted him last summer and offered €10m, but he did not leave Sporting.

The Japanese defensive midfielder’s contract expires in June and he could be free in the summer.

Morita, 30, has experience playing at the highest level and, unlike Amoako, he will not need much time to adapt. Daniel Farke’s side want a new defensive midfielder and have options to choose from.

Here are the Montreal Canadiens news items, stories and content you may have missed on Thursday.

montreal canadiens news

Sniper Cole Caufield was the latest athlete to pour his heart out to the Players’ Tribune, in a brilliant piece that can only be described as heartfelt and honest. “To me, hockey is the best game because you can’t really do it alone. Scoring 50 this year was amazing, but it was a team accomplishment. And really, it’s about the whole environment you’re in. The Bell Center has been incredible all season, and scoring No. 50 in front of all you guys and with my dad in the building… it was a great wave to go into these playoffs.” [Players’ Tribune]

Caufield also discussed the upcoming game at the Bell Center and the impact Canadiens fans have on the team’s motivation.

Cole Caufield at tomorrow’s Habs playoff home game:

“We watched Game 3 at the Bell Center on Friday night, everyone was just smiling from ear to ear, like…

‘Fuck me. That would be madness.’

“We know tomorrow night is going to be an absolute blast.” pic.twitter.com/HUGRjxoKqj

– /r/Habs (@HabsOnReddit) 23 April 2026

The top four have struggled when it comes to shutting down the Lightning, however, the third pairing of Jaden Struble and Arbor Zekaj has stood out. Take a look at how the Canadiens’ defensemen have performed so far in the playoffs. [Canadiens Need Better Results From Top Four]

With the series tied at 1-1, we also take a look at which forward lines have performed well, and which trios need to up their game against the Bolts. [Which Canadiens Lines Are Performing Best In Playoffs]

Zekaj doesn’t seem particularly concerned about Tampa’s continued slickness. He’s got a point, because the Habs have created a lot more high-danger scoring chances than the Bolts, but getting to the line is always a tough proposition, especially when you’re dealing with habitual line steppers.

Arbor Zekaj referred to himself as a “villain” vs. the Habs on the Tampa Bay Lightning today:

“If they want to think that way, fine. We’re here. We’re ready for whatever they offer us.” pic.twitter.com/1cktWPcG71

– /r/Habs (@HabsOnReddit) 23 April 2026

Head coach Martin St-Louis joins Zekaj when it comes to not losing any sleep over Tampa’s strategy.

Habs coach Marty St. Louis on the Lightning’s intimidation tactics today:

“We’ve talked about it. Did we look scared? I don’t think so. If they want to play that game, we’re able to play that game. We’re equipped to do it.” pic.twitter.com/wdH47yGu2X

– /r/Habs (@HabsOnReddit) 23 April 2026

Sportsknot Network

This may be the most important offseason in New Jersey Devils franchise history. Sunny Mehta has an extensive list of tasks this summer to get the Devils back on track as playoff and Stanley Cup contenders. [New Jersey Devils]

Washington Capitals prospect Ilya Protas has a bright future. Aliaksi’s younger brother was named AHL Rookie of the Year for his performance with the Hershey Bears. [Washginton Capitals]

The Dallas Stars were looking at a 2–1 series hole until their star-studded special teams took over.

Despite being outshot and outscored at 5-on-5, the Stars’ power play scored three times in their 4–3, double-OT win over the Minnesota Wild in game three. [Dallas Stars]

Mark has been covering the Habs for over a decade. He previously worked for the Journal Metro, The Athletic, The… More about Mark Dumont

At times, the Indianapolis Colts looked to be one of the NFL’s best teams last season. Nevertheless, in the weeks before Daniel Jones suffered a season-ending Achilles tear, the Colts began to slip. But that didn’t stop them from trading their first-round pick in 2026, as well as their top selection in 2027, in exchange for All-Pro cornerback Sauce Gardner.

Now, as we approach next Thursday’s 2026 NFL Draft, the Colts find themselves in a tough situation, with no selection in the first round and no selection until No. 47. Indianapolis’ only other selection in the top 116 selections is in the third round at No. 78.

This makes it incredibly difficult to predict who will be available once the Colts reach time, but Indianapolis has taken a liking to some elite mid-round prospects. Now we also know who.

According to NFL insider Tony Pauline of Essential Sports, the Colts are “very high” on Caleb Ellers-Orr. The TCU linebacker’s stock is rising, and he is currently projected to land on Day 2, where the Colts have the 47th and 78th picks.

Pauline wrote, “Ellers-Orr is a pure off-ball linebacker whose game and draft stock have risen over the past nine months.” “Entering the season classified anywhere from the late round to the middle of the third day, Allarms-Orr turned in a stellar senior campaign and then stood out at pre-draft scouting events like the Senior Bowl and Combine. He has solidified himself as a second-day pick and could be among the early 60 picks.”

Pauline says the Broncos, Texans, Panthers and Vikings are also “very high” on Almers-Orr and they have all interviewed him, as have the Colts. Elmers-Orr has received strong marks for his athleticism and quickness, but negative marks for his football IQ, which can develop with NFL coaching.

RELATED: 2026 NFL mock draft: Trades that captured the first round of the NFL draft

Dedicated NFL copywriter/editor. My work has been found on SportsNut, Sports Illustrated, Sporting News, MSN, Yahoo, and Minnesota Sports… More about Andrew Buller-Russ

As the NHL season draws to a close, awards voting is just around the corner. From the Senators’ perspective, Travis Greene deserves a mention in the Jack Adams race. Jake Sanderson does the same in Norris Conversation. However, perhaps most deserving of the Selke Trophy debate for the league’s top defensive forward is Shane Pinto. Let’s get into the details.

Read more: It’s time to rally around Brady Tkachuk

shane pinto by numbers

The fun part about this award is that the offensive numbers somehow matter. It’s almost as if this award goes to the best defensive forward who also puts up big-time offensive stats. I guess it can be argued that spending time in the offensive zone is great defense, but then you might as well give the award to Connor McDavid every year. Shane Pinto is a true defense-first forward. His offensive numbers are solid, but he is the third-ranked offensive center with the Senators behind Tim Stuetzle and Dylan Cozens. His job is to defend first and foremost. Here are some key numbers to show Pinto’s defensive value:

• 2:13 Shorthand time on ice/game
• 2 shorthand goals, 4 shorthand points
• 49 blocked shots
• 68.6% of defensive zones start at even strength
• 297 defensive zone faceoff

Pinto ranks first or second among Senators forwards in all of the above statistics. To the Senators’ credit, they have some forwards who take their defensive responsibilities very seriously. Guys like Ridley Gregg, Michael Amadio and Claude Giroux all deserve a lot of credit for helping the Sens become one of the best defensive teams in the NHL.

However, it is the Pinto that stands above them all. A goal late? Pinto will be on ice. Murder as punishment? Pinto is out there. Matching the opposition’s best line-up? Pinto is given work again and again. Often, he is successful in neutralizing the other team’s best offensive players.

Ottawa Senators defensive numbers

The Senators are a middling team in terms of goals against. They rank 17th, giving up 3.04 goals per game. Their penalty kill is even worse, ranking 29th in the NHL at 75%. Goaltending has been the main reason for those failures. His .876 SV% ranks 30th in the NHL, and that’s actually an improvement from the beginning of the year. On January 30 he had a league worst .866 SV. Even their current save percentage is the franchise’s worst since 1993–94. Shorthanded, Linus Ullmark has a save percentage of .811 while Levi Merilainen is even worse at .806.

The Senators are allowing just 24.4 shots per game. This ranks third-best in the NHL behind the Hurricanes (23.8) and Golden Knights (24.3). These three are far ahead of the rest of the players in the league. The fourth-best team, the Flyers, are worse at 25.4 shots against per game. In fact, these three teams have remained in the top three for the last 13 years. In terms of shot attempts, the Senators are third (3,299) behind the Hurricanes (3,032) and Lightning (3,248).

Travis Green deserves a lot of credit for the Senators’ defensive play. The forward he relies on most to lead the team in the mentality of blocking shots is undoubtedly Shane Pinto. Green is sure to give Stützle and Cozens more offensive opportunities and better offensive wingers. Pinto’s most common classmates are Giroux, Amadio, Greg, and Cousins. When you’re on Pinto’s line, you know to expect the best forward from other teams, and a lot of defensive zone starts occur.

final thoughts

It’s clear how much other teams think of the Senators’ defensive game. Opposing coaches and players have often commented on how difficult it is to play against the Senators. His strength is bullet prevention and Shane Pinto is at the forefront in this regard.

It can be difficult to value defensive play. Goaltending, linemates, and the situations that coaches put players in play a factor in the advanced metrics that people point to for defensive value. This is where the old eye test becomes so valuable. Watching the Senators, it’s clear how much Pinto means to the team. 20+ goals and 40+ points are nice, but it’s his defensive game that shines most.

Inevitably, awards voting is often narrative based. Groupthink is also often involved. In Selke’s case, it seems a player has to build up a few years before he can be seriously considered for the award. Well, why not start the buildup to Shane Pinto now? He is as valuable a defensive forward as there is in the entire NHL. It’s time for people to realize how worthy he is of Selke Trophy votes.

Danny was born and raised in Ottawa and still lives in that city. He has followed… more about Danny McCloskey

Facing significant salary cap constraints, the Minnesota Vikings had no choice but to cut costs this offseason. In doing so, they moved on from their general manager of the previous four seasons. Still, interim GM Rob Brzezinski wasted no time in doing what needed to be done, even if it meant moving on from star players.

For the Vikings, this meant parting ways with two former Pro Bowl defensive tackles with the release of both Jonathan Allen and Jevon Hargrave. Naturally, his departure leaves a big hole in Vikings defensive coordinator Brian Flores’ interior line.

While the Vikings still have former UFL standout Jalen Redmond, whom they view as a rising star, they need more depth and another starter to pair with him. Nevertheless, the Vikings remained busy identifying possible solutions to provide reinforcements in the defensive trenches.

According to NFL insider Tony Pauline of Essential Sports, the Vikings, along with six other teams, were set to attend the workout of Iowa State defensive tackle Domonique Orange. While ‘Big Citrus’ was not able to participate in the NFL Scouting Combine due to a quad issue, the Iowa State Pro Day provided a great opportunity to prove to scouts what an explosive athlete he is, and the Orange passed the test with flying colors.

Pauline reports that Orange recorded a 10-yard split of 1.68 seconds, which he called “typical for any defensive tackle, but for a player coming off a quad injury, that’s a statement.”

The Vikings have nine selections in the 2026 NFL Draft, including three selections on the second day, where the Orange could come into play. However, they may face tough competition.

In addition to the Vikings, the 49ers, Bears, Bills, Falcons, Lions and Packers were also at the event in the Orange’s workout. Additionally, the Saints and Texans had their defensive line coaches running drills for workouts. The Bears, Bills, Panthers, Texans and Vikings also plan to land the Orange one of their official top 30 visits.

RELATED: Minnesota Vikings almost guaranteed to target specific position in 2026 NFL Draft

Dedicated NFL copywriter/editor. My work has been found on SportsNut, Sports Illustrated, Sporting News, MSN, Yahoo, and Minnesota Sports… More about Andrew Buller-Russ

The Chicago Bears have shown a keen interest in strengthening the trenches since general manager Ryan Poles and head coach Ben Johnson took over. Last offseason, the Bears upgraded the offensive line by trading for Joe Thuney. This offseason, the Bears have an opportunity to boost the defensive line.

On Monday, second-team All-Pro defensive tackle Dexter Lawrence requested a trade from the New York Giants. Lawrence is a 28-year-old three-time Pro Bowler who now wants a raise over the $26.9 million cap hit he faces in 2026.

It is highly doubtful that the Giants would be willing to trade their best defenseman, yet now that the trade request has become public, their trade offers will only increase. This may also include bears.

Since the trade request came out, Bleacher Report’s Mo Moton has ruled out a few trade possibilities for the 6-foot-4, 340-pound DT. In doing so, he cited the Bears as one of the most ideal landing spots.

In doing so, he suggested that the Bears could offer a second-round pick and a fourth-round pick in the 2026 NFL Draft. The Bears have the 57th and 60th overall picks in the second round, as well as the 129th overall pick in the fourth round. Is that enough for the Giants to trade one of their best players?

There’s no doubt he’ll provide a significant upgrade to the Bears’ defensive line, but then they’ll likely have to make him one of the NFL’s highest-paid defensive tackles. Still, the Giants are likely to receive multiple trade offers, and they may prefer to trade him out of the NFC.

RELATED: 6 best Dexter Lawrence landing spots after Giants trade request

Dedicated NFL copywriter/editor. My work has been found on SportsNut, Sports Illustrated, Sporting News, MSN, Yahoo, and Minnesota Sports… More about Andrew Buller-Russ

Day 2 of the NFL Draft will have a lot to say for the Las Vegas Raiders. Rounds 2 and 3 will be when general manager Jon Spytek and head coach Clint Kubiak try their hand at roster construction.

Even with Eric Stokes back, there remains a need in the secondary. Here are five safeties and cornerbacks that Las Vegas could target on Day 2 in Pittsburgh.

CB Colton Hood, Tennessee

Hood stands 6 feet tall and was a Thorpe Award semifinalist last season. The McDonough, Georgia native is a transfer who began his college career at Auburn before moving to Colorado, where he played under Deion Sanders in 2024. He then transferred to Tennessee and became a full-time starter in the SEC. He became the first SEC player since 2019 to return both an interception and a fumble for a touchdown in the same season. In 12 games for the Volunteers, he recorded 50 tackles, nine pass deflections, a pick-six, and 4.5 tackles for loss, including one forced fumble and one fumble recovery.

Hood plays with confidence and tenacity in man coverage that has helped him shut down some of the best receivers in college football. Football runs in the family – he is the nephew of former NFL cornerback Roderick Hood, who played in two Super Bowls during his career. At the NFL Combine, Hood ran a 4.44-second 40-yard dash and ranked 10th among cornerbacks. He also posted a 40-inch vertical, one of six corners to clear that mark. Hood projects as a second-round target for the Raiders.

Also Read: Fernando Mendoza shines at Indiana Pro Day, Las Vegas Raiders zero in on No. 1 pick

CB Chris Johnson, San Diego St.

Johnson is also a second-round target for Spytek and Kubiak. He spent his entire college career at San Diego State, never pursued the big stage through the portal, and the production happened anyway. In 2025, Johnson was named Mountain West Co-Defensive Player of the Year, earned AP Second Team All-American honors and reached the semifinal round for the Jim Thorpe Award. He was one of only four players not from a Power Four or independent school to earn All-American recognition. The numbers support this. The quarterback who tested them completed only 18 of 43 attempts for 185 yards, zero touchdowns and four interceptions, good for a 16.1 passer rating.

In Pro Football Focus grades, Johnson ranked second in the nation among FBS cornerbacks in overall defense and coverage. At the combine, he ran a 4.40-second 40, which was third best among cornerbacks. He also had a 38-inch vertical and a 10-foot-6 broad jump, earning a relative athletic score of 9.67, placing him in the 93rd percentile among cornerbacks tested over the past four decades. The main knock on Johnson is his arm length is 30⅝ inches, which may impact his ability to jam at the line against taller NFL receivers. Still, tape, production and testing all point to a Day 2 selection that could start sooner.

RELATED: Las Vegas Raiders switch to 3-4 defense: What the change means in Rob Leonard’s plan for the 2026 roster

CB Keyonte Scott, Miami

Scott was a disruptive force on Miami’s national runner-up team, finishing with 64 tackles, 13 tackles for loss, five sacks, two interceptions and two forced fumbles. He earned All-ACC Second Team honors and was a Jim Thorpe Award semifinalist. Scott skipped on-field testing at the combine, then made up for it at Miami’s pro day. He ran a 4.33-second 40-yard dash, a time that would have ranked second among cornerbacks at the NFL Combine. He entered the Pro Day as a fourth-round pick and left with second-round discussion. His primary role in Miami was nickel corner, but his run-fitting ability and downhill speed also allow him to play safety. If he falls into the third round, the Raiders will still be interested.

RELATED: Mark Davis Isn’t Selling the Raiders So Stop Acting Like He Is

S.A.J. Hallsey, LSU

Holsey earned All-SEC First Team honors after an outstanding senior season at LSU. He finished with 88 tackles, three interceptions and four pass breakups, and has totaled 10 interceptions and 347 tackles in his college career after stops at New Mexico and Houston before landing with the Tigers. His nickname on the program was “Mr. Give Me That”. This was given to Haulsey by coaches for his blocking habits, which tells you what type of player he is. Hallsey is a true strong safety who brings a downhill presence against both the run and pass with the ball skills to avoid being a liability in coverage. He projects as a Day 2 pick and fits naturally into Rob Leonard’s 3-4 scheme as a box safety who can attack at multiple levels.

Also Read: Las Vegas Raiders GM Jon Spytek, coach Clint Kubiak address Max Crosby trade fallout in NFL meetings

H2 – S Kamari Ramsey, USC

Kamari Ramsey also stands at 6-foot and is competing against the top receivers in the Big 10 Conference. In nine games, Ramsey totaled 27 tackles. He earned honorable mention honors after last season. The 21-year-old, who will turn 22 at the end of August, can play cornerback or safety, providing versatility. If he falls to the third round, the Raiders will take a shot at Ramsey.

Also read: Raider Nation, the future is bright – don’t get ahead of yourself in 2026

Braven Honda graduated from San Diego State with a bachelor’s degree in Journalism in May 2021. During his time at SDSU, … More about Braven Honda

The 2026 NFL Draft is right around the corner – just a few weeks away – and the Kansas City Chiefs are sitting on a chest of picks we haven’t seen in the Patrick Mahomes era. We’re talking top-10 picks, three shots in the top 40 and eight picks in the first five rounds. Translation? Brett Veach has the ability to reload this roster in a big way with young, impactful talent.

Let’s be real – the defense didn’t exactly bring the heat last season. Casey finished 22nd in sacks, and the pass rush was unable to consistently get to the house. That has to be changed. Good news? This draft class is loaded with juice off the edge and playmakers in the secondary – exactly what the Chiefs need to get that unit back to championship level and take pressure off their high-octane offense.

With that in mind, here are two prospects that ESPN’s Matt Miller is circling for draft night.

reuben ben jr

Reuben Benn Jr. is built like a wrecking ball off the edge – about 6’2″-6’3″, 260-275, with a compact frame that’s all about power and pop. Over three seasons (2023-2025), he prepared for 38 games and filled the stat sheet: 121 total tackles, 33.5 TFL, 20.5 sacks, as well as a handful of splash games with a forced fumble and even a pick.

But 2025? That’s when he really flipped the switch – 54 tackles, 15.5 TFL, 9.5 sacks, and a ridiculous 92.5 PFF grade that put him in the top-three among all EDGE defenders in the country. Oh—and 67 total pressure. The dude was staying in the backfield.

Turn on the tape, and it’s easy to see why he’s climbing the boards. Ben has that explosive first step, plays with natural leverage, and wins with violent hands and a nonstop motor. He’s not your typical tall, hunched pass rusher. He’s more of a power disrupter who can break loose in the pocket and act as a bully. And it’s not just pass rush juice, he’s a legitimate edge-setter in the run game, stays disciplined in his gaps, and shows high football IQ through the game.

This is exactly the kind of chess piece DC Steve Spagnuolo likes. The Chiefs manage to generate pressure without constantly attacking, and Benn fits that mold perfectly. He can win outside, kick inside when passing underneath and create chaos from multiple alignments. Add to your production against top-tier competition, including big-time performances in playoff level games. And you’re looking at a guy who’s already been battle-tested.

The resume also supports it: ACC Defensive Player of the Year, All-American honors, the Hendricks Award, and one of the highest-rated EDGE defenders in college football. If Casey wants someone who can bring instant heat and toughen up that front, Benn has “plug-and-play disruptor” written all over him.

Avion Terrell

Avion Terrell is the type of DB that just screams ‘Spags Guy’. At about 5’11”, 180-186 pounds, he’s not the biggest corner in the class – but he plays much bigger than his measurables. A three-year contributor at Clemson (39 games, 31 starts), Terrell filled the stat sheet with 128 tackles, 30 pass breakups, 4 sacks, 3 picks and a ridiculous 8 forced fumbles – setting a Clemson DB record. This is not normal production for any corner… this is the creation of chaos.

His 2025 tape also supports this. He logged 46 tackles, 11 PBUs, 5 forced fumbles and 3 sacks, while locking things down in coverage, giving up only 340 yards passing all year. No interceptions, sure, but don’t get it twisted, the QBs weren’t testing him much. The man was still pressing and disrupting everything that came his way, earning All-American and First-Team All-ACC honors in the process.

And yes- check the blood lines. He’s the younger brother of AJ Terrell, and you can see his polished, technically sound play throughout the film. He’s disciplined, smooth and coachable, which is exactly what Steve Spagnuolo looks for in his DB room.

Is the plan suitable? Almost perfect. Spags likes corners that can do a little bit of everything – press, tackle, blitz, rotate inside – and Terrell checks every box. He has been lined up outside, kicked in the slot, and even comes down as a safety in run support. Blitz ability also emerges, with 4 career sacks and legitimate time off the edge.

But what really sets him apart is how he generates turnovers. Doesn’t just pick up, he punches the ball. Those 8 forced fumbles (including 5 in 2025, leading the ACC) are elite production and fit perfectly into KC’s defensive identity of causing chaos and stealing possessions.

Bottom line: This is not just a projection of symptoms. Terrell is a battle-tested, high-IQ corner with 31 starts, big-game reps and a playing style that fits Kansas City like a glove. Plug him into that secondary, and you’ll get a tone-setter who tackles like a safety and plays every moment with that dog mentality.

RELATED: Did the KC Chiefs unveil a potential Round 1 target in the 2026 NFL Draft?

The Detroit Pistons have held down the fort well so far in the absence of star point guard Cade Cunningham due to a horrific lung condition. Although they haven’t exactly faced a killer line of opponents, the Pistons are now 3-0 after Cunningham left the lineup, and are firmly in first place in the Eastern Conference.

The biggest reason for this is the play of Aussie Thompson, who has been a terror for opponents on the defensive side of the ball.

In fact, he recently became the first player to achieve a major defensive milestone this season.

“Oser Thompson has been in his own lane this season, becoming the only forward in the NBA to rack up 100+ steals and 50+ blocks. It’s not just versatility, it’s straight-up defensive dominance from every angle of the floor,” X, formerly of ClutchPoints, reported on Twitter.

In fact, the statistical feat speaks volumes about Thompson’s switchability and skills on that end of the floor, and he has become an integral part of what makes Detroit such a strong unit on defense this season.

Similar to his twin brother Amen Thompson with the Houston Rockets, if Ourser ever finds a way to expand his offensive skills, he could immediately become one of the most impactful players in the league.

Meanwhile, as the season enters its home stretch, the Pistons look to lock up the number one seed in the East, and they’ve done a good job of showing off their versatility and depth over the past week in Cunningham’s absence, though they’ll certainly hope to get their star point guard back by the time the playoffs arrive.

The Pistons will take on the red-hot Los Angeles Lakers for their next home game on Monday night.

The Boston Celtics, even before Jayson Tatum’s long absence due to an Achilles rupture, were already a formidable team to contend with, thanks to the consistent two-way excellence of both Jaylen Brown and Derrick White. White’s talent may not match the box score, but he is the quintessential winning player. He does everything the Celtics need to play winning basketball, and his impact was evident once again on Monday night.

It may have been Brown who scored 41 points on 10-20 shooting from the field and 19-21 from the charity stripe against the Phoenix Suns, but it was White who held the team together on the defensive end. He helped slow down Jalen Green by holding him to 21 points on 8-20 shooting from the field, and he was the defensive star of their 120-112 win over the Suns.

White refilled the stat sheet, tallying one steal and one block each. In doing so, the Celtics guard now has 75 steals along with 93 blocks on the season – becoming the first player in franchise history to record such defensive numbers during a season since Kevin Garnett accomplished the feat during the championship-winning 2007-08 campaign, according to ESPN Insights on X (formerly Twitter).

Celtics star Derrick White is a coach’s dream

White is respected among coaches and analytics fans, as he does everything a team wants from a guard who plays heavy minutes. He can defend big players, he can attack them from beyond the arc, and he’s unselfish at both ends of the court, willing to sacrifice his body for the right play.

The Celtics star also received major praise from Cleveland Cavaliers head coach Kenny Atkinson, who said he is a top-five player in the NBA. And considering how impactful that can be, there really is an argument to be made for it.

The Minnesota Timberwolves visit the Los Angeles Clippers at the Intuit Dome on Wednesday in a marquee matchup in the Western Conference.

The Timberwolves are trying to break a two-game skid, while the Clippers have been on a roll recently, winning five of their last six games, with Kawhi Leonard playing at an MVP level.

Stopping Leonard will require a collective effort from Minnesota, with Anthony Edwards and Jaden McDaniels being the primary on-ball stoppers. But clearly, Rudy Gobert remains their defensive anchor.

The Athletic’s Law Miller points to significant decline in Timberwolves defensive efficiency When Gobert is off the field this season. When asked about it, Minnesota coach Chris Finch emphasized Gobert’s importance and acknowledged his shortcomings.

“When he’s off the floor, we need to protect the rim differently. Better on the ball, better around the ball and earlier at the rim. Obviously, we’ve been inconsistent at times with things like that this year,” Finch said.

“He’s huge for us. It takes some nuances to play with a guy like Rudy. When he’s off the field, you have to transition to a different mentality defensively.”

The Timberwolves’ defensive efficiency with Rudy Gobert this season: 107.7

The Timberwolves’ defensive efficiency with Rudy Gobert this season: 116.7

asked Chris Finch about this pic.twitter.com/nWVDpE6B75

– Law Murray 🕯️ (@LawMurrayTheNU) 12 March 2026

Many have mocked the 33-year-old Gobert for his lack of offensive skills and awkward antics. But there’s no denying that he can be a game-changer on the defensive end.

He’s not a four-time Defensive Player of the Year for nothing.

Edwards has often talked about his defensive identity and how important it is for him and Gobert to set the tone.

Entering their game against the Clippers, the Timberwolves are allowing 114.5 points per game. But as Finch said, there is still room for improvement overall.

At the time of writing, there is a close game between Minnesota and Los Angeles in the first half.

The historic rivalry between the Los Angeles Lakers and Boston Celtics took center stage at Crypto.com Arena on Sunday, ending with a disappointing 111-89 loss for the home team. While the game remained competitive for three quarters, Boston fell behind in the final frame, with Jaylen Brown delivering a 32-point masterclass. The Lakers’ frustrations were further compounded when the team was whistled for three technical fouls, penalizing Austin Reaves, Marcus Smart and coach JJ Redick for arguing officiating decisions. Even Luka Doncic, who finished with a modest 25 points, mocked the situation after the game, noting that if he had not been the one receiving the technical, the officiating would have actually been questionable.

The tension centered on a few specific non-calls that left the Lakers coaching staff looking for answers. According to a post from Oh No He Didn’t on X, JJ Redick addressed three technical fouls by highlighting the missed goaltending call on a LeBron James layup.

Redick said Celtics center Neemias Queta used a “stealth” strategy that stunned him. Redick said, “They missed an obvious LeBron layup, which was scored off the backboard, and Cueta stuck his whole hand, I can’t jump that high, so he stuck his whole hand through the rim.”

The coach said he would seek clarification on the legality of the move, joking that “Honestly, it’s a great way to defend floaters.” A separate video surfaced that shows Redick attempting to mimic the reach by holding the rim himself to emphasize the point.

Wow, I didn’t know JJ could jump like that, hahahapic.twitter.com/ccdLWEt7wh

– Oh no, he didn’t (@ohnohedidnt24) 23 February 2026

Despite the officiating play, LeBron James gave high praise to Jaylen Brown’s ability to keep the Celtics afloat during Jayson Tatum’s absence. James acknowledged that Brown is playing with a chip on his shoulder after the Boston roster was revamped in the offseason.

While James pointed to past friction, particularly Brown’s viral Summer League comments about Bronny James, he said their relationship remains civil and respectful.

For the 34-22 Lakers, the focus now turns to controlling their emotions and finding more offensive consistency as they look to move on from this bitter loss in the rivalry.

Who has the best NFL defense in 2022? Our weekly NFL defense rankings examine every unit across the league on a weekly basis to determine the best defenses in the NFL.

Bookmark this page throughout the 2022 NFL season for weekly analysis and previews of matchups for the top-20 teams.

Let’s dive into our NFL defense rankings 2022, reviewing how the top 20 teams performed in Week 13. We also have Week 14 NFL previews for some of the best defenses in football.

20. Minnesota Vikings

The Minnesota Vikings ruined the feel-good story that was Mike White, picking him off twice and forcing him to a 6.5 ypa average on 57 attempts. Of course, the 120 rushing yards allowed to the New York Jets tied to Garrett Wilson’s big day (162 yards) highlights why Minnesota’s defense can’t be trusted in the playoffs.

Sunday’s matchup against the Detroit Lions isn’t a favorable one for Minnesota. We’ve written earlier this year that the Vikings’ secondary gets exposed when the pass rush doesn’t get home very quickly. Entering Week 14, Jared Goff averages one of the fastest average times to throw (2.4). But Detroit will also test Minnesota deep, with the third-most throws (43) of 20-plus yards.

19. Kansas City Chiefs

• Previously: No. 18 in NFL defense rankings

Perhaps Justin Reid and his teammates might want to spend a little more time studying film and learning about their opponents. Joe Burrow scored three total touchdowns and did an excellent job spreading the ball around, hitting eight different receivers. Kansas City also surrendered 106 rushing yards to backup running back Samaje Perine.

The good news for the Chiefs, it’s legitimately not worth watching the Broncos’ film on offense. Denver in arguably the worst offense in the NFL, with Wilson refusing to leaving the pocket and disastrous play-calling.

18. Los Angeles Rams

• Previously: No. 14 in NFL defense rankings

Take Aaron Donald off the field and the Rams’ secondary gets exposed. Geno Smith torched Los Angeles on Sunday afternoon, turning 28 completions into 367 yards and three touchdowns with a 116.1 QB rating. While the Las Vegas Raiders offense has had its share of issues this season, Davante Adams will roast this cornerback group. No Donald and a declining effort from the Rams’ defense is a recipe for a lot of blowups to close out the season.

17. Detroit Lions

• Previously: 20th in NFL defense rankings

From the worst defense in the NFL to the No.17 spot in the defensive rankings, it’s been quite the turnaround for the Detroit Lions. Young talents like Aidan Hutchinson and Kerby Joseph are starting to acclimate, playing massive roles in Detroit stiffening up against the pass. There are still plenty of mistakes made and quite a few holes to fill this offseason, but the improvement deserves national recognition.

• Detroit Lions defense (Week 9-13): 77.2 QB rating allowed, 7-7 TD-INT, 57.3% completion, 6.4 ypa, 11 sacks

With that said, we do anticipate Justin Jefferson giving Detroit a lot of problems. What this matchup comes down to is whether or not the Lions’ defensive front can get to Kirk Cousins early. If he’s uncomfortable and Detroit takes an early lead, its defense can bend its ears back and take advantage of the Achilles’ heel of Minnesota’s offense.

NFL defense stats – Best pass defenses in NFL

Here are the best NFL pass defenses entering Week 14, based on passing yards allowed per game, yards per attempt, average QB rating allowed and completion rating surrendered.

16. Indianapolis Colts

• Previously: 10th in NFL defense rankings

We’ve returned to the version of the Indianapolis Colts defense when they are one of the worst run-stopping units in the NFL. Adding the 240-yard effort from the Dallas Cowboys to the equation, Indianapolis has now allowed 533 rushing yards, 5.2 yards per carry and seven rushing touchdowns in the last three games. For good measure, opponents have also averaged a 48.7% third-down conversion rate along with a 98.2 QB rating in that stretch. Maybe things change on the bye, but that would mean Gus Bradley is making adjustments and that seems unreasonable.

15. Carolina Panthers

• Previously: 16th in NFL defense rankings

Returning from the bye, the Carolina Panthers defense has held its last five opponents to 186.4 passing yards per game with 15 sacks, a 90.1 QB rating and a 7-4 TD-INT ratio and the average QB rating allowed drops to 86.9 over the last four weeks. This is a young defense with talent at all three levels and it should pose a credible challenge to the Seattle Seahawks in Week 14.

Related: Carolina Panthers coaching candidates

14. Baltimore Ravens

• Previously: 17th in NFL defense rankings

It’s not difficult to find reasons to be optimistic about the Baltimore Ravens defense moving forward. Pro Bowl safety Marcus Williams is nearing a return and he is going to add some much-needed playmaking to the secondary. In addition, Baltimore has now allowed just 3.8 yards per rush and 82.5 rush ypg this season.

However, the worst offense in the NFL averaged 5.2 yards per play vs Baltimore and holding this unit to nine points doesn’t erase concerns with Baltimore’s defensive issues in the fourth quarter. Facing another soft matchup in Week 14, battling the Pittsburgh Steelers, the Ravens’ defense will look better because of its opponent.

13. Pittsburgh Steelers

• Previously: 15th in NFL defense rankings

We didn’t anticipate the Atlanta Falcons’ offense providing us any answers regarding Pittsburgh’s secondary. Drake London (95 receiving yards on 12 targets) had a productive day, but Marcus Mariota isn’t nearly good enough to expose the faults on the Steelers’ defense. With Lamar Jackson uncertain for Week 14 and the Ravens’ offense an eyesore in recent weeks, the Steelers won’t face a legitimate challenger for several more weeks.

Related: Pittsburgh Steelers schedule

12. New Orleans Saints

• Previously: No. 13 in NFL defense rankings

It’s difficult to knock the New Orleans Saints defense for the loss on Monday Night Football. Midway through the fourth quarter, Dennis Allen’s group held Tom Brady to 120 total yards with two takeaways. The Saints’ offense put that all to waste and Brady engineered two touchdown drives covering 154 yards on 21 plays and only took less than five minutes off the clock.

Things will be much easier in Week 14. New Orleans – holding opponents to 187.1 pass ypg with an 86.0 QB rating in the last seven games – doesn’t have to worry about the Falcons throwing the ball effectively. However, this run defense is susceptible to some big games (553 yards allowed Week 9-11) and that bares monitoring against the Falcons’ strong ground game.

11. Cincinnati Bengals

• Previously: 12th in NFL defense rankings

The Cincinnati Bengals’ pass rush stepped up in a monumental way on Sunday, recording eight quarterback hits and even more pressures on Mahomes. It made the All-Pro quarterback uncomfortable enough to only complete 59% of his throws, stalling out multiple drives. Life should be quite a bit easier against a rusty Deshaun Watson in Week 14.

NFL defense stats – Best run defenses in NFL

Here are the best NFL run defenses in 2022, based on yards per carry, rushing yards per game, rushing touchdowns and run defense DVOA. NFL team defensive starts are prior to Week 14.

NFL defensive rankings: Top 10 NFL defenses in 2022

10. Tennessee Titans

• Previously: No. 7 in NFL defense rankings

The results from Sunday shouldn’t be much of a surprise. With a banged-up defensive line, NFL MVP candidate Jalen Hurts and the Eagles’ receivers were going to expose Tennesse’s secondary. In the last three games, the Titans have now allowed an average 104.2 QB rating with a 6-0 TD-INT rate and 289 pass ypg. On the bright side, one of the NFL’s best run defenses held Philadelphia to 67 yards on 24 carries (2.8 ypc). Facing Jacksonville in Week 14, Tennessee should fare well against the Jaguars’ sporadic offense.

9. Tampa Bay Buccaneers

• Previously: No. 10 in NFL defense rankings

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers wiped out the Saints’ run game (66 yards on 25 attempts) and forced Andy Dalton to make quick, accurate throws under pressure. It worked out nicely against one of the NFL’s worst offenses over the last month. Our concern is the run defense against the San Francisco 49ers. Tampa Bay has allowed 150-plus rushing yards five times this season, most recently on Nov. 27 against the Cleveland Browns. Brock Purdy won’t have to do anything if Shanahan’s scheme runs right through Tampa Bay.

8. Washington Commanders

• Previously: No. 9 in NFL defense rankings

As the Washington Commanders head into their bye week, fans can finally prepare for the return of Chase Young. When the former No. 2 pick rejoins the defense in Week 15, he’ll simply be strengthening a group responsible for 25 sacks with an average 82.6 QB rating, 5.9 ypa and a 34.3% third-down conversion rate surrendered in the last nine games. Two weeks to prepare for the New York Giants’ offense will make this a great streaming defense in Week 15.

Related: Washington Commanders deny benching Carson Wentz for draft-pick purposes

7. Denver Broncos

• Previously: No. 8 in NFL defense rankings

The Denver Broncos have a playoff-caliber defense, it’s just being weighed down by an offense that looks like it belongs in the USFL. Denver held its opponent under 200 passing yards on Sunday, the eighth time it has accomplished that feat in 2022. Even with Bradley Chubb long gone, the Broncos’ secondary keeps showing out. With that said, the Chiefs’ offense is a different beast and Denver will join the long list of good defenses that struggled vs Mahomes.

Related: Denver Broncos coaching candidates

NFL team defense stats – Best pass rush teams in NFL 2022

Here are the best pass-rushing teams in the NFL entering Week 12. Data will be updated after the conclusion of Monday Night Football.

1. Dallas Cowboys – 30.2% pressure rate (1st), 51% pass-rush win rate (2nd), 45 sacks
2. Philadelphia Eagles – 24.2% pressure rate (7th), 53% pass-rush win rate (1st), 36 sacks
3. New York Jets – 24.7% pressure rate (5th), 44% pass-rush win rate (10th), 34 sacks
4. New England Patriots – 27.5% pressure rate (2nd), 34% pass-rush win rate (28th), 37 sacks
5. Denver Broncos – 22.4% pressure rate (18th), 51% pass-rush win rate (2nd), 26 sacks

6. Buffalo Bills

• Previously: No. 6 in NFL defense rankings

There are positives to take away from the Buffalo Bills’ Thursday Night Football victory over the New England Patriots. Playing without Von Miller – out for at least a month – Buffalo held New England to 10 points, 242 total yards and a 25% third-down conversion rate. However, his was a short week against a below-average offense. We’re not really going to see Buffalo’s secondary and pass rush tested until it faces the Miami Dolphins on Dec. 18.

Related: NFL games today – 2022 NFL schedule

Top 5 defenses in NFL

5. New England Patriots

• Previously: No. 2 in NFL defense rankings

The last to games demonstrate why NFL defensive stats require context. While the New England Patriots defense ranked No. 1 in several categories, it was also a product of its schedule. In two games against the Bills and Minnesota Vikings, New England surrendered 524 passing yards, with a 5-1 TD-INT ratio, a 113.2 QB rating and its opponents combined for 57 points.

Considering the struggles vs Stefon Diggs and Justin Jefferson, we could see DeAndre Hopkins fare well in Week 14. Fortunately for New England’s defense, the Arizona Cardinals aren’t well-coached and Kyler Murray has regressed this season.

4. New York Jets

• Previously: No. 3 in NFL defense rankings

All things considered, the New York Jets proved on Sunday why they have one of the best pass defenses in the NFL. Justin Jefferson finished with 45 receiving yards on 11 targets and averaged under 6.5 yards per catch for only the second time this year. Ultimately, what cost New York was its low sack rate (5.4%) and allowing the Minnesota Vikings to convert 50% of their 18 third-down attempts. It doesn’t shake our confidence in one of the best NFL defenses this season, even with Josh Allen and Stefon Diggs looming.

Related: NFL insiders project historic contract extension for Justin Jefferson

3. Philadelphia Eagles

• Previously: No. 4 in NFL defense rankings

Our attention on Sunday focused on whether or not the Philadelphia Eagles could bottle up Derrick Henry. With Jordan Davis back, creating one of the deepest interior defensive lines in the NFL, Philadelphia held Henry to 30 yards on 11 carries. An inability to stop the run was our only small concern with Philadelphia’s defense. If we get a repeat performance vs Saquon Barkley, that remaining doubt will be erased.

2. Dallas Cowboys

• Previously: No.2 in NFL defense rankings

The Dallas Cowboys defense wasn’t flawless on Sunday Night Football, but Dan Quinn’s group flipped a switch late and it captures one of the best NFL defenses entering Week 14. In the past seven games, opponents are averaging just 169.9 pass ypg with a 33.7% third-down conversion rate and 28 sacks taken.

Now, we arrive at why the Dallas Cowboys are the No. 1 defense in Week 14 fantasy rankings. The Houston Texans offense is averaging just 173.5 passing yards and 75.2 rushing yards per game since Oct. 30. In that six-game stretch, Houston threw 10 interceptions and took 20 sacks. Guaranteeing a defensive touchdown feels wrong, but holding Houston to single-digit points with multiple turnovers and five-plus sacks, that is doable.

1. San Francisco 49ers

• Previously: No. 1 in NFL defense rankings

The San Francisco 49ers have the best defense in the NFL and Week 13 is the latest piece of evidence. Facing a Miami Dolphins that looked unstoppable, San Francisco recovered from the 75-yard touchdown it allowed to open the game by holding Miami to 233 total yards and 10 points on its final 44 plays. The Dolphins’ offense failed to convert any of their nine third-down attempts and Nick Bosa (three sacks) eviscerated the offensive line. With the defensive line healthy, San Francisco should feast vs Tom Brady in Week 15.

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Week 14 fantasy defense rankings

The following defense rankings are for fantasy football purposes and only apply to Week 14.

1. Dallas Cowboys D/ST vs Houston Texans
2. San Francisco 49ers D/ST vs Tampa Bay Buccaneers
3. Philadelphia Eagles D/ST vs New York Giants
4. Buffalo Bills D/ST vs New York Jets
5. New England Patriots D/ST vs Arizona Cardinals
6. Baltimore Ravens D/ST vs Pittsburgh Steelers
7. Pittsburgh Steelers D/ST vs Baltimore Ravens
8. Kansas City Chiefs D/ST vs Denver Broncos
9. Tennessee Titans D/ST vs Jacksonville Jaguars
10. Tampa Bay Buccaneers D/ST vs San Francisco 49ers
11. Los Angeles Rams D/ST vs Las Vegas Raiders
12. New York Jets D/ST vs Buffalo Bills
13. Cincinnati Bengals D/ST vs Cleveland Browns
14. Carolina Panthers D/ST vs Seattle Seahawks

Stats courtesy Football Outsiders, Pro Football Reference, ESPN, and Pro Football Focus.