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Best NFL defenses in 2021: Top 8
#8 - Pittsburgh Steelers
The Pittsburgh Steelers have long been known for their defense and are toward the top, once again, in the 2021 NFL season. T.J. Watt has the second-most sacks this season. He sits just one half of a sack behind the leader while playing in two fewer games. He is the engine that drives their defense while Minkah Fitzpatrick is their best playmaker on the back end in the secondary.
#7 - Los Angeles Rams
The Los Angeles Rams defense has been driven by two elite superstars the past couple of years. Aaron Donald is one of the best all-round players in the NFL while Jalen Ramsey is one of the top cornerbacks. They recently added a third superstar to the list. The Rams are tied for the most sacks in the league this season, and Von Miller can help them get that number even higher down the stretch.
#6 - New Orleans Saints
The New Orleans Saints defense is loaded with veterans who play a smart and intense brand of football. They have great chemistry as a unit. Cameron Jordan, Demario Davis and Marshon Lattimore are the leaders at each of the three levels. Their best attribute is their rushing defense. They have the number one ranked rushing defense in the NFL, allowing just 72.9 yards per game on the ground.
#5 - Arizona Cardinals
The Arizona Cardinals defense has far exceeded expectations this season as they crack into the top five overall. They rank in the top five in the NFL in points allowed per game, total yards allowed per game and passing yards allowed per game. Their top two pass rushers, Markus Golden and Chandler Jones, have combined for 15 sacks. They are both in the top ten in sacks individually.
