Our defense has had many new starters this season. The most substantial part of our team this season has been our secondary. We have some young guys, but they have all emerged as huge playmakers in key moments. Our passing defense is ranked in the middle of the pack, but our run defense and points allowed are in the top 10. This is due to our secondary coming down and making plays in both the run game and passing game.
1 Deane Leonard
Deane Leonard has been our standout defensive player this season, leading the team with 73 fantasy points. Leonard’s ability to make plays has been great. We have moved him around between the slot and on the outside. He has an impressive stat line: 5 interceptions, 3.5 sacks, and two defensive touchdowns. His versatility in disrupting both the passing and run games has been crucial. Leonard is in his contract year, and we hope to be able to bring him back to the squad next season.
2 Xavier Nwankpa
Our rookie safety, Xavier, has emerged as one of the most reliable defenders on our team, tying for the second-highest fantasy points on the team with 70. He is tied with Leonard with five interceptions and two touchdowns. Nwankpa also has 2 sacks, proving his ability to get to the quarterback when needed. His athleticism makes him so versatile that we can use him in so many ways. It feels good to finally hit on a draft pick; he is filling Justin Reid’s shoes perfectly.
3 Jaden Hicks
Jaden Hicks rounds out the top three defenders with 70 fantasy points, tying Xavier Nwankpa. Hicks also has five interceptions, two forced fumbles, and one defensive touchdown. Hicks has 39 tackles; with us playing a two-high defense, it is great he can come down and make tackles in the run game. His ability to shut down running lanes, force mistakes through the air, and make big plays in key moments makes him valuable to this defense.
