Welcome back, IDP Nerds! I know I’ve hit you with an overdose of rankings over the past few weeks. The feedback has been tremendous; I’m thrilled you’re enjoying them. I’m not wasting any time as we are back this week with an IDP deep dive of the top IDP performances and their defensive schemes for you to enjoy.
This week, we will focus on the challenges of navigating the ever-evolving landscape of IDP fantasy football. Understanding the context behind player production is key in dynasty fantasy football leagues. This week, I’m presenting a comprehensive spreadsheet that breaks down each NFL team’s current defensive coordinator and the base defense they deploy (3-4, 4-3, 4-2, etc.). Also, we will cover the most recent positional finishes for defensive linemen (DL), linebackers (LB), and defensive backs (DB).
All of the coaches who are in their first year with a team have an asterisk attached and their most recent data is from the team they last coached for. This IDP deep dive aims to help you analyze trends in scheme usage and coordinator history. The hope is to help you identify which positions are primed for volume, which roles may shift in value, and how to forecast breakout IDP candidates in your league.
AFC North | IDP Performances & Trends
| Team | Defensive Coordinator | Base Defense | Most Recent Season DL Finish | Most Recent Season LB Finish | Most Recent Season DB Finish |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Baltimore Ravens | Zach Orr | Base 3-4 Over | Odafe Oweh (DL50) Nmamdi Madubuike (DL58) | Roquan Smith (LB8) Trenton Simpson (LB55) | Kyle Hamilton (DB5) Marlon Humphrey (DB25) |
| Cincinnati Bengals | *Al Golden | Base 4-2 | N/A | 2018: Jarrad Davis (LB20) 2020: Josh Bynes (LB46) Germaine Pratt (LB58) | N/A |
| Cleveland Browns | Jim Schwartz | Base 4-3 | Myles Garrett (DL3) | Devin Bush (LB51) Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah (LB52) Jordan Hicks (LB53) | Grant Delpit (DB18) Martin Emerson (DB52) |
| Pittsburgh Steelers | Teryl Austin | Base 3-4 Under | T.J. Watt (DL2) Cam Heyward (DL9) | Patrick Queen (LB26) Payton Wilson (LB57) | DeShon Elliott (DB13) Minkah Fitzpatrick (DB31) |
Baltimore Ravens
Zach Orr enters his second season as the Baltimore Ravens’ defensive coordinator. Baltimore finished as the top rushing defense and second in the league in sacks (54). It is no secret to IDP managers that the stars performed for the Ravens’ defense. Roquon Smith and Kyle Hamilton both finished in the top 12 of their respective positions. Marlon Humphrey was also just outside the top-24 of defensive backs last season. The Baltimore defense added former Pro Bowl cornerback Jaire Alexander and drafted Georgia’s Malaki Starks in the 1st Round of the 2025 NFL Draft. IDP managers should hold out hope that this could be a very productive secondary for fantasy football production.
Cincinnati Bengals
The lone newcomer, Al Golden, helped lead the Notre Dame Fighting Irish to the National Championship game last season, primarily due to their defense. His previous NFL job was as the LB coach for the Detroit Lions in 2018 and the Cincinnati Bengals in 2020. As you can see above, he helped lead a top 20 LB season in 2018 and multiple 60 LB finishes in 2020.
Al Golden has been a successful college defensive coordinator, but it remains to be seen how productive his players will be without enough data to back that up. IDP managers should feel comfortable with their investments in the consistent producers for the Bengals. The most intriguing player here is rookie LB Demetrius Knight; he could be highly effective for Al Golden and find his dynasty value increase this season.
Cleveland Browns
When you mention the Cleveland Browns and IDP fantasy football, it starts and stops with Myles Garrett. The Browns’ EDGE rusher has his name mentioned as the NFL Defensive Player of the Year every season. Myles Garrett is coming off his second 14-sack season under Jim Schwartz and his best season finish as the DL3 overall.
The Cleveland LB group is the most significant question mark this season. That isn’t a typo; they had the LB51, LB52, and LB53 in overall points last season. Before his injury, Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah was on pace for his best season and undoubtedly a top 24 LB finish last season. IDP managers should invest in the 33rd overall pick in the 2025 NFL draft, Carson Schwesinger. He looks to be the top LB option for Cleveland this season and should make an instant impact for dynasty managers.
Pittsburgh Steelers
Although they are not the dominant defense we have come to know, the Pittsburgh Steelers remain one of the better NFL defenses. Teryl Austin’s defense finished 8th in points against last season, thanks in part to one of the game’s best EDGE rushers in T.J. Watt. The Steelers invest in their defensive front better than anyone else, and that didn’t change this year with the draft selections of Derrick Harmon and Jack Sawyer.
Many IDP managers hope Payton Wilson will break out this season and surpass Patrick Queen as the team’s top LB option. DeShon Elliott turned in his best season of his career, and with the trade of Minkah Fitzpatrick this offseason, there’s very little reason to believe he could not have a repeat top-15 season in 2025.
AFC East | IDP Deep Dive
| Team | Defensive Coordinator | Base Defense | Most Recent Season DL Finish | Most Recent Season LB Finish | Most Recent Season DB Finish |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Buffalo Bills | Bobby Babich | Base 4-2 | Greg Rousseau (DL12) A.J. Epenesa (DL54) | Dorian Williams (LB30) Terrel Bernard (LB37) | Damar Hamlin (DB39) Christian Benford (DB53) |
| Miami Dolphins | Anthony Weaver | Base 3-4 | Zach Sieler (DL24) Calais Campbell (DL33) Emmanuel Ogbah (DL46) | Jordyn Brooks (LB6) Tyrel Dodson (LB32) | Jordan Poyer (DB67) |
| New England Patriots | *Terrell Williams | Base 3-3 | 2020: Jeffrey Simmons (DL32) 2021: Jeffrey Simmons (DL12) 2022: Jeffrey Simmons (DL31) 2023: Harold Landry (DL8) Denico Autry (DL24) | N/A | N/A |
| New York Jets | *Steve Wilks | Base 4-2 | 2023: Nick Bosa (DL16) | 2023: Fred Warner (LB8) Dre Greenlaw (LB27) | 2023: Charvarius Ward (DB30) Deommodore Lenoir (DB43) |
Buffalo Bills
IDP managers shouldn’t expect anything different from the Buffalo Bills in 2025. Bobby Babich has been with the team as a defensive assistant since 2017 and is currently the defensive coordinator. Sean McDermott is one of the most predictable coaches in the NFL, and there’s no reason to believe that changes. Greg Rousseau was the key IDP from the team last season, but as I mentioned in my Keep Trade Cut article this off-season, he is a player I wouldn’t be highly invested in.
The Buffalo Bills rely on a heavy rotation on their defensive line, and Rousseau’s 71% defensive snap share last season is likely to regress this season. The Bills brought in Veteran EDGE rusher Joey Bosa and added two defensive linemen in the 2025 NFL draft, which fits the scheme of multiple players playing 60% of the snaps. Buffalo has an LB-friendly system so I would expect bounce-back seasons from Terrel Bernard and Matt Milano. If that group can stay healthy, they can be difference makers for your roster.
Miami Dolphins
Anthony Weaver made the best of a bad situation in Miami, where the team was missing its best pass rushers for most of the 2024 season. Despite the injuries, the Miami defense finished in the top 10 in points against. An encouraging sign for IDP managers is the veterans on the defensive line having great seasons.
The Dolphins will return Bradley Chubb, Jaelan Phillips, and emerging second-year EDGE rusher Chop Robinson. The talented front in Miami allows LB Jordyn Brooks to rack up tackles; he has finished with 100 tackles for the 4th-consecutive season. Minkah Fitzpatrick’s return to South Beach should give IDP managers some hope. He finished as DB21 last season and is the clear-cut best DB fantasy option for the Dolphins.
New England Patriots
Terrell Williams lands his first NFL defensive coordinator job, rejoining Mike Vrabel, with whom he coached the Tennessee Titans from 2018 to 2023. There’s not much to find on Williams, as most of his experience has been as a defensive line coach. As shown above, he has coached a DL to a top 32 finish each season from 2020 to 2023. Harold Landry will reunite with his old defensive line coach in New England—the two put together their best season in 2023 when Landry finished as the DB8 overall.
We must revisit next season to see how the linebackers and defensive backs perform under the new defensive system. I have high hopes for veteran LB Robert Spillane, my dark horse pick to finish as LB1 this season. Excitement is there for a highly young defense in New England, so it will be interesting to see how they rebound this year after finishing 31st in takeaways and 32nd in sacks last season.
New York Jets
Aaron Glenn was drafted 12th overall by the New York Jets in the 1994 NFL draft. He returned to the Jets 30 years later to become the head coach this season. Steve Wilks will take over as defensive coordinator after spending last season as a volunteer advisor in college football. Wilks’ previous season coaching in the NFL was with San Francisco, where the defense finished in the top 5 in takeaways and points against. While he won’t have elite talents like Nick Bosa and Fred Warner, he takes over a talented group. Jamien Sherwood was a breakout candidate, finishing as the LB3 last season.
Jamien Sherwood will benefit from playing under Steve Wilks, as will Quincy Williams, who has been a top-24 LB in each of the past 2 seasons. IDP managers should expect a bounce-back season from Quinnen Williams, who had his lowest volume tackle season (37) since his rookie season. He should see fewer double teams this season, playing alongside veteran DT Harrison Phillips. The upside and youth on the Jets’ defensive line creates a potential buy-low opportunity for IDP managers this offseason.
AFC South | IDP Performances & Trends
| Team | Defensive Coordinator | Base Defense | Most Recent Season DL Finish | Most Recent Season LB Finish | Most Recent Season DB Finish |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Houston Texans | Matt Burke | Base 4-2 | Danielle Hunter (DL16) Will Anderson (DL23) | Henry To’oTo’o (LB38) Azeez Al-Shaair (LB50) | Derek Stingley (DB75) Eric Murray (DB77) |
| Indianapolis Colts | *Lou Anarumo | Base 4-2 | Trey Hendrickson (DL11) Joseph Ossai (DL51) | Germaine Pratt (LB9) Logan Wilson (LB43) | Cam Taylor-Britt (DB28) Geno Stone (DB40) |
| Jacksonville Jaguars | *Anthony Campanile | Base 4-3 | N/A | 2020: Jerome Baker (LB16) 2021: Jerome Baker (LB28) 2022: Elandon Roberts (LB38) Jerome Baker (LB41) | N/A |
| Tennessee Titans | Dennard Wilson | Base 3-4 Under | Harold Landry (DL7) Jeffrey Simmons (DL13) | Kenneth Murray (LB33) Jerome Baker (LB67) | Amani Hooker (DB35) |
Houston Texans
The Houston Texans finished in the middle of the pack in total defense last season under defensive-minded coach Demeco Ryans. Matt Burke will return as the defensive coordinator after leading Danielle Hunter and Will Anderson Jr. to top-24 DL performances. Hunter and Anderson were the only two Texans DL to play more than 60% of snaps; that is unlikely to change with minimal improvements by the team this offseason. The most intriguing position will be at LB for Houston. Henry To’oTo’o was the top LB at 38th overall, but with the depth at the position, it’s tough to find consistency. Azeez Al-Shaair and Christian Harris both played 80% of snaps last season.
IDP managers should continue to be fearful that Matt Burke will ride the hot hand at LB, causing frustration. A healthy season for DB Jalen Pitre would be huge for IDP managers, in hopes he can return to his rookie season (2022) form, where he had 147 tackles and finished as DB1 overall.
Indianapolis Colts
Lou Anarumo will leave the Cincinnati Bengals after six seasons to take over the Colts’ defense. Anarumo produced a top-12 finish at both DL and LB last season. I have zero doubt he will get the most out of the depth along the Colts’ defensive front. Laiatu Latu is the most intriguing breakout candidate for IDP managers. Joseph Ossai played a similar defensive snap share to Latu last season and finished as DL5.
Injuries are the only thing stopping Zaire Franklin from being in the conversation for NFL leading tackler and LB1 overall, and that will not change with Lou Anarumo calling plays. Nick Cross is an intriguing player for the Colts as well. He finished as the 6th-best IDP overall last season and the DB2 overall. Cross played the 2nd most box snaps of any safety, and 42% of his snaps in the box overall. With question marks at LB, opposite veteran Zaire Franklin, I could see Cross’ usage continuing this season.
Jacksonville Jaguars
A new coaching staff in Jacksonville leaves fantasy managers waiting to see how things unfold before investing too heavily. Anthony Campanile will be a defensive coordinator for the first time. He served as an LB coach for the Miami Dolphins from 2020 to 2023; his players posted respectable fantasy performances. Travis Hunter, the IDP1 overall in my Dynasty IDP Rankings, is the most exciting player in Jacksonville this season. It’s still uncertain how much DB he will play, but his ability to play both sides of the ball effectively has him with one of the highest rookie ceilings for any IDP ever.
Josh Hines-Allen and Travon Walker finished as top-36 DL last season while combining for 19 sacks. Foyesade Oluokun and Devin Lloyd will remain the starters. Still, there are long-term concerns with a potential contract out after this season for Oluokun and free agency pending for Lloyd. Backup Ventrell Miller was LB49 on just a 46% defensive snap share last season, and the team selected Notre Dame LB Jack Kiser in the 2025 NFL Draft. IDP managers would be competent in keeping this on their radars.
Tennessee Titans
Dennard Wilson returns as the Titans’ defensive play-caller. Outside of Jeffrey Simmons, there aren’t many attractive IDP assets for fantasy managers. The Titans lost their top performer at DL and their top two linebackers from last season. Veteran LB Cody Barton (LB35) will be the top option on the defense. He’s coming off three consecutive 100-tackle seasons.
The remainder of the LB group is unproven in Cedric Gray and James Williams, who have yet to see a full-time role in their young careers. Amani Hooker finished as DB35 last season, and Xavier Woods will join the team from Carolina, where he finished as DB9 overall. This safety group is potentially the easiest group to project on this defense. Overall, this defense is not one IDP managers should want to acquire multiple players of.
AFC West | IDP Deep Dive
| Team | Defensive Coordinator | Base Defense | Most Recent Season DL Finish | Most Recent Season LB Finish | Most Recent Season DB Finish |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Denver Broncos | Vance Joseph | Base 3-4 | Zach Allen (DL8) Nik Bonitto (DL10) Jonathan Cooper (DL20) | Cody Barton (LB35) Justin Strnad (LB48) | Brandon Jones (DB4) Ja’Quan McMillan (DB26) Riley Moss (DB29) |
| Kansas City Chiefs | Steve Spagnuolo | Base 3-4 Over | George Karlaftis (DL44) Chris Jones (DL70) | Nick Bolton (LB16) Drue Tranquill (LB44) | Justin Reid (DB24) Chamarri Conner (DB37) Bryan Cook (DB65) |
| Las Vegas Raiders | Patrick Graham | Base 4-2 | Maxx Crosby (DL25), Adam Butler (29) | Robert Spillane (LB5) | Trevon Moehrig (DB15) Jack Jones (DB50) Isaiah Pola-Mao (DB55) |
| Los Angeles Chargers | Jesse Minter | Base 3-4 Under | Tuli Tuipulotu (DL34) Khalil Mack (DL60) | Daiyan Henley (LB12) | Derwin James (DB12) Elijah Molden (DB60) |
Denver Broncos
Vance Joseph is one of the best defensive minds in football, and it showed in 2024. Joseph’s unit produced three top-20 DL performers and three top-36 DB performers. The Denver defense was electric last season, leading the NFL in sacks with 63. Zach Allen, Nik Bonitto, and Jonathan Cooper are top players IDP managers should target in their startup drafts. Alex Singleton will return from injury as the top LB, and he is a tackling machine with 120 tackles or more in three straight seasons.
The Broncos’ secondary was phenomenal last season, and all its players will return. I don’t believe they will repeat with that many top fantasy producers, but they will be a difficult unit to move the ball against. Denver also added dynamic slot defender Jahdae Barron, who offers upside in dynasty leagues.
Kansas City Chiefs
Steve Spagnuolo-coached defenses are not the most fantasy-friendly. However, when it comes to winning playoff games and Super Bowls, he finds a way to do it better than anyone else. George Karlaftis and Chris Jones remain the top options at DL. Karlaftis has been average with DL38 and DL44 finishes in the past two seasons. Chris Jones is coming off his lowest sack total since the 2016 season. He’s a sack-dependent DL, so his lack of production there hurt IDP managers last season.
Nick Bolton and Dru Tranquill should again be the featured players in this defense, with Bolton having the most realistic chance to become a top 12 LB by season’s end. As long as Bolton remains healthy, he is almost guaranteed a 100-tackle season; his impact plays can potentially put him over the top. While Chamarri Conner and Bryan Cook will be the starters, second-year DB Jaden Hicks offers the most intrigue for fantasy managers. Hicks averaged only 22 snaps a game as a rookie, but he showed his potential late in the season with 43.73% of his total fantasy points over the final three games.
Las Vegas Raiders
The head coaching carousel in Las Vegas continues, with Pete Carroll returning at 73. However, with many new faces, Patrick Graham was retained as the team’s defensive coordinator. Luckily for the Raiders and dynasty managers alike, Maxx Crosby was able to get a new deal done, but the team lost its top options at LB in Robert Spillane and at DB with Trevon Moehrig. Adam Butler (DL29) should see a boost in value with Christian Wilkins released from the team this offseason.
It’s a mess at LB for the Raiders with veterans like Elandon Roberts, Germaine Pratt, Devin White, and former DB Jamal Adams all competing for roles. I’m fading this situation and letting someone else deal with this headache. Germaine Pratt has the safest floor with LB9 and LB25 finishes over his last two seasons. Jeremy Chinn had a resurgence last season in Washington. He would be the top option at DB for Las Vegas. A player to keep an eye on is Isaiah Pola-Mao. He had a breakout season as DB55 and could continue to be an effective DB in IDP fantasy football leagues.
Los Angeles Chargers
The Los Angeles Chargers allowed the fewest points in the NFL last season under Jesse Minter. The Chargers’ defense doesn’t offer significant depth for IDP managers, but the top stars perform well. Veteran EDGE rusher Joey Bosa left the team this offseason, which should open up a full-time role for Tuli Tuiulotu, who has finished inside the top-60 DL in each of his first two seasons. Khalil Mack and Bud Dupree offer enough sack upside to be on rosters in IDP leagues.
Daiyan Henley had a breakout season with 147 tackles, finishing as LB12. He figures to be the top LB option again for the team, with very little hope for second-year LB Junior Colson, who has yet to earn snaps with the top defense this preseason. It is business as usual for the Chargers at DB; there’s Derwin James and everybody else. The former All-Pro is a top 12 DB every year and one of the best defenders in the NFL. There’s little reason to believe he won’t remain one of the most valuable IDPs at the defensive back position.
NFC North | IDP Performances & Trends
| Team | Defensive Coordinator | Base Defense | Most Recent Season DL Finish | Most Recent Season LB Finish | Most Recent Season DB Finish |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chicago Bears | *Dennis Allen | Base 4-2 | Carl Granderson (DL26) | Demario Davis (LB20) Pete Werner (LB46) | Alontae Taylor (DB14) |
| Detroit Lions | *Kelvin Sheppard | Base 4-2 | Za’Darius Smith (DL77) Aidan Hutchinson (DL112) | Jack Campbell (LB22) Alex Anzalone (LB65) | Brian Branch (DB3) Kerby Joseph (DB17) |
| Green Bay Packers | Jeff Hafley | Base 4-2 | Rashan Gary (DL45) | Quay Walker (LB27) Edgerrin Cooper (LB39) Isaiah McDuffie (LB45) | Xavier McKinney (DB16) Keisean Nixon (DB20) Javon Bullard (DB56) |
| Minnesota Vikings | Brian Flores | Base 3-4 Under | Andrew Van Ginkel (DL1) Jonathan Greenard (DL5) Patrick Jones (DL66) | Blake Cashman (LB25) Ivan Pace (LB60) | Byron Murphy (DB19) Josh Metellus (DB22) Cam Bynum (DB32) Harrison Smith (DB33) |
Chicago Bears
After nine seasons, Dennis Allen will leave the New Orleans Saints to take over the Chicago Bears’ defense. Allen, previously in New Orleans, has coached many strong IDP seasons. Just last season alone, he had a top-30 performer at DL, LB, and DB. Montez Sweat should see a boost in production. He hasn’t looked like the same player since being traded from the Washington Commanders. Austin Booker is a potential breakout candidate for Dennis Allen and the Chicago defense with four sacks this preseason.
T.J. Edwards and Tremaine Edmunds should also see a boost under coach Dennis Allen. He has proven to get the most out of his New Orleans linebackers, which should be an encouraging sign for IDP managers, as he has two potential top 24 performers in the Chicago linebackers. Lastly, if there’s a DB whisperer in the NFL ranks, it’s Dennis Allen. He had 3 of the top 24 fantasy points per game (FPPG) producers last season. Kevin Byard and Jaquan Brisker should easily be plug-and-play starters for fantasy managers, which you can’t always say at the DB position.
Detroit Lions
Kelvin Sheppard started his coaching career with the Detroit Lions in 2021 and now takes over play-calling duties, with Aaron Glenn taking over as the New York Jets’ Head Coach. Aidan Hutchinson is the DL1 in IDP fantasy football, and his pace last season was incredible. Hutchinson’s 25.36 FPPG was 1st among all IDPs and 6th among all players last season. All reports say he is healthy and should continue to be one of the best fantasy performers this season.
IDP managers would love for me to say this is Jack Campbell’s defense, but I’m still unconvinced. He had his best season of his career, with an LB22 finish last year, but Alex Anzalone is still a player on whom this coaching staff loves. He finished as LB65 in just 10 games last season and still carries value in IDP fantasy football leagues. Brian Branch and Kerby Joseph are the key performers on this team, with both finishing inside the top 20 of defensive backs last season.
Green Bay Packers
Jeff Hafley’s defense in Green Bay features their stud linebackers in Quay Walker and Edgerrin Cooper. Both players finished in the top 40 at the position last season; IDP managers should continue to see the same production over the 2025 season. Rashan Gary continued to be a sack-dependent DL and has had 16.5 sacks over the past two seasons.
Fantasy managers should hold out hope for Lukas Van Ness (DL109); his defensive snap share should increase after playing just 39% of snaps last season. Xavier McKinney has a superb season, finishing 2nd in interceptions (8) on his way to a DB16 performance. Keisean Nixon made a name for himself as a solid streaming option (DB20). Javon Bullard’s 13 FPPG was the 3rd most for any rookie DB last season.
Minnesota Vikings
The Brian Flores-led Minnesota Vikings were a nightmare for opposing offenses at times last season. The defense finished 5th in points allowed and tied for 1st in takeaways (33). Andrew Van Ginkel made a case for NFL Defensive Player of the Year after his DL1 performance. Jonathan Greenard was just as practical, with a DL5 performance. The two combined for 23.5 sacks, nearly 48% of the team’s total.
Blake Cashman played 94% of the defensive snaps and turned in an LB25 season. He has the upside to be a top 12 LB in 2025 behind this talented Minnesota defensive line. Harrison Smith is continuing to produce late in his career, and Josh Metellus has been a sneaky value for IDP managers over the past two seasons. I’m still investing in Dallas Turner and Ivan Pace. If they can earn the trust of Brian Flores, they could be risers in IDP fantasy football rankings this season.
NFC East | IDP Deep Dive
| Team | Defensive Coordinator | Base Defense | Most Recent Season DL Finish | Most Recent Season LB Finish | Most Recent Season DB Finish |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dallas Cowboys | *Matt Eberflus | Base 4-3 Over | Grover Stewart (DL27) DeForest Buckner (DL36) Kwity Paye (DL48) | Zaire Franklin (LB1) E.J. Speed (LB14) | Nick Cross (DB2) Jaylon Jones (DB21) Julian Blackmon (DB42) Kenny Moore (DB47) |
| New York Giants | Shane Bowen | Base 3-4 Under | Brian Burns (DL4) Dexter Lawrence (DL37) | Micah McFadden (LB29) Bobby Okereke (LB42) | Tyler Nubin (DB27) Jason Pinnock (DB46) |
| Philadelphia Eagles | Vic Fangio | Base 3-4 Under | Jalen Carter (DL39) Josh Sweat (DL40) Nolan Smith (DL53) | Zach Baun (LB2) Nakobe Dean (LB7) | Reed Blankenship (DB41) |
| Washington Commanders | Joe Whitt Jr. | Base 4-2 | Dante Fowler (DL28) | Bobby Wagner (LB17) Frankie Luvu (LB24) | Jeremy Chinn (DB11) Mike Sainristil (DB34) Quan Martin (DB38) |
Dallas Cowboys
Matt Eberflus is the Dallas Cowboys’ newest Defensive coordinator. It’s not starting in the most ideal way, with major drama, as star EDGE rusher Micah Parsons and the team are in an unfortunate contract dispute. We all understand that Parsons will be suiting up for the Cowboys, but what impact will he have while he waits for a contract extension? Matt Eberflus employed a heavy rotation last season in Indianapolis, which saw three different DL finish in the top 50. A promising sign for IDP managers with shares of the young players like Marshawn Kneeland and rookie Donovan Ezeiruaku.
Dallas will have uncertainty at the LB position as they deal with injuries and have brought in veterans Kenneth Murray and Jack Sanborn in free agency. A complicated situation to figure out in preseason, but it’s worth noting that whoever wins this job could be in for a good year with both Zaire Franklin and E.J. Speed finishing as top 15 LBs last season under Matt Eberflus. There will be a drop-off in talent from what Eberflus has been used to in the Colts’ secondary, but there should be streaming options for fantasy managers at DB for the Cowboys.
New York Giants
The New York Giants will enter year 2 under Shane Bowen as the defensive playcaller. A massive addition in EDGE rusher Abdul Carter will significantly boost this defense. The Giants finished top 10 in sacks (45) last season and gained a player who has collected 30 tackles for loss and 16.5 sacks over his previous 2 seasons. This defensive front of Brian Burns, Dexter Lawrence, Abdul Carter, and Kayvon Thibodeaux could be electric for IDP managers this season.
Bobby Okereke and Micah McFadden remain mid-tier linebackers who are startable but do not move the needle as top options. Tyler Nubin was one of my favorite IDP rookies a season ago, and despite missing the final three games with an injury, he ranked 15th among all DBs in FPPG in 2024. The Giants added dynamic safety Jevon Holland alongside Tyler Nubin. It will be interesting to see if both can become top 36 options at DB.
Philadelphia Eagles
Vic Fangio’s first season with the Philadelphia Eagles was a massive success. He helped lead a young defense to 2nd overall in points allowed while developing various young players for years to come. Zach Baun went from a backup rotational player to LB2 overall in 2024. The Eagles’ defensive line will again be tough to figure out as the team has a mixed bag of youth and veteran players. Jalen Carter and Nolan Smith were good last season, but their inconsistencies are not what IDP managers look for when setting their lineups. The best strategy would be for fantasy managers to invest in the cheapest options here, like Azeez Ojulari, hoping he significantly outperforms his ADP.
Zach Baun should be in for another big season under Fangio, and it will be interesting to see how the team uses rookie LB Jihaad Campbell. The Philadelphia Eagles struck gold with Quinyon Mitchell and Cooper DeJean last season, helping them win the Super Bowl. From a fantasy perspective, I would only be willing to put Reed Blankenship and Cooper DeJean in my lineup early in the season.
Washington Commanders
The Washington Commanders relied heavily on some veteran players familiar with Dan Quinn’s defense last season. As it goes in the NFL, those veterans moved on, and heading into 2025, the Commanders will have lost their top fantasy performer at DL and DB. The Commanders’ defensive front is not a defensive line I would put any faith in this season, but if one is to emerge, it would likely be Dorance Armstrong. However, fantasy managers should anticipate a rotation of players for the Commanders’ DL this season.
The ageless wonder Bobby Wagner, even at 35, carries enough fantasy value that he will find his way in the top-24 LB conversation as he has for the past decade. I believe we will see Frankie Luvu again help out tremendously as a pass rusher. Pro Football Focus said his 211 pass rush snaps were the most among linebackers last season. There’s not much to like in this Commanders’ secondary, but Mike Sainristil (DB34) should produce another solid season for fantasy managers.
NFC South | IDP Performances & Trends
| Team | Defensive Coordinator | Base Defense | Most Recent Season DL Finish | Most Recent Season LB Finish | Most Recent Season DB Finish |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Atlanta Falcons | *Jeff Ulbrich | Base 3-4 | Will McDonald (DL55) Quinnen Williams (DL55) | Jamien Sherwood (LB3) Quincy Williams (LB23) | Tony Adams (DB71) |
| Carolina Panthers | Ejiro Evero | Base 3-4 | A’Shawn Robinson (DL14) | Josey Jewell (LB34) Trevin Wallace (LB65) | Xavier Woods (DB9) Michael Jackson (DB49) |
| New Orleans Saints | *Brandon Staley | Base 4-3 | 2020: Aaron Donald (DL2) Leonard Flloyd (DL19) 2022: Khalil Mack (DL26 2023: Khalil Mack (DL3) | 2020: Troy Reeder (LB52) 2021: Kyzir White (LB11) 2022: Dru Tranquill (LB6) 2023: Kenneth Murray (LB24) | 2020: John Johnson (DB22) 2021: Derwin James (DB2) 2022: Derwin James (DB6) 2023: Derwin James (DB6) |
| Tampa Bay Buccaneers | Todd Bowles | Base 3-4 | Calijah Kancey (DL73) | Lavonte David (LB11) | Zyon McCollum (DB48) |
Atlanta Falcons
Jeff Ulbrich was relieved of his interim Head Coaching duties with the New York Jets and took the Atlanta Falcons’ Defensive Coordinator job this offseason. He has a tall task in front of him, as the Falcons finished 23rd in points allowed, 32nd in sacks, and allowed the second-most passing touchdowns last season. The most significant improvement for this Falcons defense should be along the DL, as the team drafted Jalon Walker and James Pearce in the 2024 NFL Draft.
I want to believe one of them will be a consistent fantasy producer by the end of the season, but I have doubts, as the Atlanta DL position has been an afterthought for IDP managers over the past few seasons. Kaden Ellis is coming off a season where he finished as LB4 overall. Jeff Ulbrich helped coach Jamien Sherwood to a breakout season last year. I expect that Kaden Ellis will put together another highly productive season. Jessie Bates has been an absolute stud since joining the Falcons with DB1 and DB8 performances in 2023 and 2024. IDP managers should continue to value Bates as one of the highest-scoring DBs in fantasy football.
Carolina Panthers
I’m sorry to disappoint IDP managers, but this division is among the least attractive in the NFL for fantasy football. To make this quick and painless, we will move quickly here. There is little to like about the Carolina Panthers’ defense. The best option among the defensive line will be Derrick Brown, returning from a season-ending knee injury. In his place, A’Shawn Robinson was surprisingly good with a DL14 performance.
Overall, this is a lackluster unit that I am fading in 2025. Christian Rozeboom (LB18) and Trevin Wallace (LB64) should be your week 1 starters and offer enough value to be on IDP rosters to start the season. Despite losing their best option at DB in Xavier Woods, they gained free agent Trevon Moehrig (DB15), who should be the top performer overall for Carolina’s defense this season.
New Orleans Saints
The New Orleans Saints hired Kellen Moore as their new Head Coach this season. Brandon Staley takes over the defense. His previous seasons as a Defensive Coordinator have been very successful, which bodes well for fantasy managers with stock in this New Orleans defense. 2025 will be the last season for veteran EDGE rusher Cameron Jordan, who will likely see a reserve role at this point in his career. Carl Granderson and Chase Young should be key players under Brandon Staley. Isaiah Foskey is a player to watch as the season progresses to see if he earns more playing time.
Demario Davis (LB20) is likely playing his last season, but he continues to produce, a common theme among the NFC linebackers in fantasy football leagues. Pete Werner hasn’t been what fantasy managers have expected, and he is not compelling enough to be relied on as a weekly starter. The New Orleans DBs were very successful under Dennis Allen; it will be fun to see if that veteran group can continue to be as productive with Brandon Staley calling plays.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Todd Bowles is one of the best defensive minds in the NFL. Unfortunately for IDP managers, it rarely transfers over to consistent fantasy production. Tampa Bay has a makeshift defensive line that raises more questions than answers. The team will rely heavily on their interior defenders in Calijah Kancey (DL73) and Vita Vea.
Haason Reddick will join his third different team in as many seasons, and fantasy managers will see if he can return to his double-digit sack form. Lavonte David adds to the veteran NFC linebacker group that keeps piling up fantasy points no matter the situation. If he can stay healthy, Antoine Winfield Jr. has the upside of being a top 12 performer at DB. Tykee Smith is a player to keep on your radar. He had 54 tackles and 2 interceptions in just 6 starts last season.
NFC West | IDP Deep Dives
| Team | Defensive Coordinator | Base Defense | Most Recent Season DL Finish | Most Recent Season LB Finish | Most Recent Season DB Finish |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Arizona Cardinals | Nick Rallis | Base 3-4 | Zaven Collins (DL43) | Kyzir White (LB21) Mack Wilson (LB47) | Budda Baker (DB1) Jalen Thompson (DB47) |
| Los Angeles Rams | Chris Shula | Base 3-4 | Kobie Turner (DL17) Jared Verse (DL18) Byron Young (DL21) Braden Fiske (DL41) | Christian Rozeboom (LB18) | Quentin Lake (DB10) Kam Curl (DB44) |
| San Francisco 49ers | *Robert Saleh | Base 4-2 | 2020: Kerry Hyder (DL22) Arik Armstead (DL52) | 2020: Fred Warner (LB17) Dre Greenlaw (LB50) | 2020: Jason Verrett (DB78) |
| Seattle Seahawks | Aden Durde | Base 3-4 Under | Leonard Williams (DL6) Derick Hall (DL49) | Ernest Jones (LB19) Tyrice Knight (LB58) | Julian Love (DB7) Devon Witherspoon (DB23) |
Arizona Cardinals
The Arizona Cardinals have brought back Nick Rallis after the defense finished near the middle of the pack in most defensive categories last season. The Cardinals made no defensive moves that excited fantasy managers this season. Zaven Collins will reluctantly be the top option at DL again; he is more of a streaming option at the position. The team brought in veteran players like Calais Campbell and Josh Sweat, who will likely outperform their current ADP.
The linebacker group is a guessing game with Akeem Davis-Gaither and Mack Wilson slotted to start the season. I have high hopes for rookie Cody Simon, who should be taking over a starting spot before the season ends. If there’s one thing we can count on, it’s Budda Baker to be a top 12 DB, as the saying goes, Death, Taxes, and Budda Baker’s fantasy points. Overall, this will be a defense that will need to provide some clarity for IDP managers before we can be confident in what to expect.
Los Angeles Rams
The Los Angeles Rams’ defense has made a quick turnaround post-Aaron Donald’s retirement. They have heavily invested in the defensive line and have been rewarded handsomely. The team saw three players finish as top 24 performers at the DL. Jared Verse enters his second season as a top dynasty asset at the DL position. Chris Shula continues to rotate and get the most out of his players. Fantasy managers should be encouraged because all of the top performers are young.
The linebacker group is disappointing as the Rams continue to kick the can on investing draft capital or free agency priorities in the position. Until more data becomes available, this group is full of bye-week fill-ins or end-of-bench players. Quentin Lake was the breakout player for the Los Angeles secondary, finishing as DB10 last season. Kam Curl saw a dip in production in his first season under Chris Shula. IDP managers should anticipate a bounce back from him in 2025 that resembles his production when he was with the Washington Commanders.
San Francisco 49ers
Robert Saleh returns to the Bay Area with many familiar faces who helped him earn the opportunity to become an NFL Head Coach for the first time. Saleh will benefit from coaching Nick Bosa and Fred Warner, who will undoubtedly be the top options at the DL and LB positions. 2025 NFL draft rookies Mykel Williams and Nick Martin will be two players IDP managers should be excited to see develop in Robert Saleh’s system. Ji’Ayir Brown should carry the most hype at defensive back, but veterans Jason Pinnock and Richie Grant could provide value if the younger players struggle to fit into the defense early on.
Seattle Seahawks
The Seattle Seahawks are again turning their team identity into a defensive focus. Seattle has a very young and exciting defense with many intriguing dynasty assets. They had a top-12 performer at DL and DB last season and traded for Ernest Jones, who has the potential to be a high-producer at LB. The trio of Uchenna Nwosu, Derick Hall, and Boye Mafe offers upside as effective pass rushers.
The defensive line is full of big bodies, allowing their linebackers to run from sideline to sideline and make tackles. Tyrice Knight finished third among rookie linebackers last season with 9.58 FPPG. There is so much to like in the secondary. Julian Love has been a rock-solid performer, Devon Witherspoon has been electric, especially in CB-required fantasy formats. The addition of rookie DB Nick Emmanwori could put this defense over the top and give IDP managers plenty of options.
What to Look for in IDP Performances
IDP Nerds, there’s a ton to unpack here, but if there’s one thing your IDP Director gives you, it’s content you rarely find anywhere else. Please feel free to use the anchor links below to jump to your division of choice quickly. As your IDP Director this was fun putting this together for you, and I tried my best to keep it as informative as possible, but also not overkill you with knowledge you already have.
I hope you enjoy it, and I wanted to let you know what’s in store next week. Keep an eye out for two more off-season articles coming your way before we get into the regular season. We will provide a weekly waiver wire article and, by popular demand, the weekly start and sit recommendations. As always, I appreciate the support, and for all things IDP, don’t hesitate to reach out to me on Twitter (X) @Glosser13.
AFC North | East | South | West
NFC North | East | South | West
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