Best defender on each NFC South team
By: Jake Rajala
The NFC South has many Hall of Fame defenders on defense. They also have a variety of elite defenders. With that simply said, I’m going to unfold the best defender on each NFC South team.
New Orleans Saints: Demario Davis
Demario Davis had a career-high 136 combined tackles last season. However, he had five tackles for loss, which was his lowest figure since 2014. He also only had two QB hits, which was his lowest figure since 2012 (his rookie season). I believe putrid play-calling was partially due to Davis’s lack of production. He will have Brandon Staley calling the shots on defense next season.
Carolina Panthers: Jaycee Horn
Jaycee Horn has been one of the best CBs from the past several years. He had nine pass break-ups last season, which was 11th in the league! Not only does he shine, but he has shined against the likes of Mike Evans, Drake London, and Chris Olave. Horn made his first Pro Bowl last season.
Atlanta Falcons: Jessie Bates
Jessie Bates is one of the top safeties in the league. All he did was record a PFF grade of 80.2 last season, which included four interceptions. He is still 28 years old, so he could play for a few more seasons. If he’s on Harrison Smith’s diet, he could play for another decade.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Lavonte David
Lavonte David has been clocking in and out for a decade with the Bucs. David has been an impressive run stopper and sharp LB in coverage. He has 29 pressures, which is third among LBs in the league. Similar to Davis on the Saints, David will most likely retire after 1-2 more seasons.
The NFC South has a couple of LBs who are future Hall of Famers. They have a CB, who could be a regular Pro Bowler, and a safety that is seeking his first, first-team All-Pro after scoring a second-team All-Pro twice in his career.
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