ClutchPoints
The 2025 NFL season is just weeks away, which means the fantasy football season is just around the corner. Now is the time for fantasy football managers to get ready for redraft leagues, which typically draft around Labor Day weekend. That includes studying ADP for every position and determining how you want to build your squad.
The defense and special teams unit (D/ST) is often neglected by most fantasy football managers. Most will pick one up in the last round of the draft. Or simply wait until after drafting and pick one up off waivers.
There is certainly an argument for snagging one of the best defenses in the league, especially on contending teams.
But which fantasy defenses should you be targeting in 2025?
Below we will explore the top seven defenses and special teams units for fantasy football during the 2025 NFL season.
After the top five teams on this list, it is almost anyone’s guess. Personally, I’m a big believer in Detroit.
If the Lions can stay healthy in 2025, I believe they have a great chance to become a top 10 defense in the NFL.
Obviously the biggest headline for the Lions is getting Aidan Hutchinson back after his brutal leg injury from 2024. Hutch was on a tear last season, logging seven-and-a-half sacks in just five games.
Even without Hutchinson for most of the year, Detroit was a top-12 scoring defense in fantasy football in 2024. It helps that Detroit had 16 interceptions (thank you Kerby Joseph and friends) and a pair of touchdowns.
There are a few concerns with the Lions though.
Detroit has a rough schedule and could be due for some regression after losing DC Aaron Glenn this offseason.
They are a risky pick, no doubt about that. But Detroit’s defense can deliver huge points during weeks where they crush inferior opponents.
If you’re interested in Detroit’s D/ST, I wouldn’t target them before the 10th round in 12-team leagues.
The Steelers have historically had a very solid defense. It looks like more of the same in 2025.
Pittsburgh had an average 2024 season, finishing with only 40 sacks. But they lived off interceptions with 17.
The main reason for optimism around the Steelers is their aggressive offseason moves.
Pittsburgh went all in this offseason, adding Darius Slay and Jalen Ramsey to their secondary.
That should be a huge help for T.J. Watt and friends. If coverage holds up for longer, Steelers fans can expect more sacks and pressures from their edge rushers.
The Steelers D/ST could easily finish better than sixth when the 2025 season is complete. If they start slipping in your fantasy draft, scoop them up without a second thought.
The Vikings have an aggressive defense that can cause confusion for opposing offenses. That means more mistakes and more turnovers.
Minnesota finished the 2024 season with 49 sacks, which ranks in the top five among NFL defenses.
There’s even...
