Canal Street Chronicles
Now onto the defense...
The player rankings are officially on the defensive side of the ball, and we start with the defensive lines around the league.
Baltimore Ravens, Cincinnati Bengals, Cleveland Browns, Pittsburgh Steelers
Looking at sack numbers from last season, the Ravens would not be considered a great defensive line. Still, Nnamdi Madubuike had a breakout season in 2023 with 13 sacks, and the team's run defense is spectacular. The Ravens always have a solid defensive line, regardless of the players. With their run defense in a league that emphasizes running the ball, the entire defense can play freely and dominate against teams.
The Bengals have been the subject of many news reports this offseason regarding their defensive line. For a year now, star edge rusher Trey Hendrickson has been in contract negotiations with the team, and first-round pick defensive lineman Shemar Stewart has still not signed his contract with the team. If all of these issues can be resolved, and the players are ready to play by the beginning of the season, the Bengals have a formidable defensive line that can be near the top in sack numbers throughout the season.
Having a player that teams need to avoid at all costs can be a difference maker in games, and the Browns have had that since selecting Myles Garrett in the 2017 draft. A player like Garrett will always elevate the success of a defensive line, but the Browns also added defensive tackle Mason Graham in the first round. Cleveland has been unable to build a defense around Garrett, but Graham can be the perfect player to put next to their star edge rusher.
When looking at top defensive lines in the league, there are many factors to consider when making the decision for the top spot, but one team sticks out amongst the rest. With a group led by T.J. Watt and Cameron Heyward, the Steelers already had a top-tier defensive line, but now with the addition of rookie DT Derrick Harmon, Pittsburgh should be the best in the NFL.
Sometimes, even when a team is exceptional in pass rush, the run defense is a glaring weakness, and this is the case for the Cowboys. Micah Parson is one of the most athletic edge rushers in the game and the Dallas’ defensive tackle room is filled with potential, but the run defense is just such a worry every season, and next year could be the same.
One of the teams that could very well take over the Steelers top defensive line spot is the Giants. Already having Brian Burns, Dexter Lawrence, and Kayvon Thibodeaux is a dangerous group, but after selecting top 2025 draft prospect Abdul Carter in the first round, this is the most talented defensive line in the league.
The Eagles have one of the best rosters in the league and that is why they won...
