David Chao, MD
2 min read • August 28, 2023
Posted in
This list outlines five of the ten leading anticipated defenses for fantasy football this season, according to FantasyPros. Collaborating with the Pro Football Docs team, we will guide your evaluation of each defense's health and its potential impact on their fantasy output.
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Cornerback Isaiah Bolden sustained a neck injury while attempting a tackle on Saturday. He was subsequently carted off the field with his neck stabilized, leading to the suspension of the remainder of the Patriots vs. Packers game. Released from the Aurora Bay Medical Center in Green Bay, Bolden rejoined the team by flying back on Sunday morning. His diagnosis reveals a concussion.
Linebacker Raekwon McMillan, who had recently re-signed with the team in March, found himself on the injured reserve after partially tearing his Achilles tendon during OTAs. Notably, McMillan had participated in 64 percent of special teams snaps during the previous season.
Defensive lineman Trey Flowers, grappling with a foot injury, currently resides on the physically unable to perform list. Despite the lack of updates concerning Flowers' recovery, a persistent foot injury for an athlete of his stature is less than optimal.
Marlon Humphrey has been a cornerstone of the Ravens' defense since his 2017 draft. However, the former All-Pro injured his foot and is projected to miss approximately a month, possibly returning in week four.
Humphrey's counterpart at outside cornerback, Rock Ya-sin, suffered a leg injury in early training camp but is recovering to be available for week 1.
Rookie linebacker Trenton Simpson experienced a soft tissue injury in August but resumed gameplay on Monday.
Outside linebacker Tyus Bowser hasn’t practiced this offseason due to still recovering from a knee injury. Ravens head coach John Harbaugh said he expects him to play early in the season.
After tearing his bicep in week 3, Ravens nose tackle Michael Pierce has reclaimed his spot in the starting lineup. He engaged in training camp and the preseason, instilling anticipation among Ravens fans as they await Pierce's presence to fortify the defense in week 1.
Broncos safety Justin Simmons, known for his interception prowess (6) last season, is currently sidelined with a groin tweak for most of training camp. While he's expected to be present for the opening week, ongoing monitoring of this injury is warranted.
The Broncos acquired outside linebacker Frank Clark, a two-time Super Bowl champion with the Chiefs, as starting EDGE rusher Baron Browning underwent an arthroscopic procedure for a partially torn meniscus. Browning is set to begin the season on the physically unable to perform list.
Further complicating matters, outside linebacker Randy Gregory is recuperating from arthroscopic meniscus surgery. Although he returned in Week 10, the injury resurfaced, causing him to miss the season’s last two games. While he's progressing well in rehabilitation, he won't be at full capacity at the season start.
The Chiefs' presence among the projected top 10 defenses might come as a surprise, but this outcome is no coincidence. Under the guidance of Steve Spagnuolo, the Chiefs are poised for continuous enhancement. In the previous season, the Chiefs' defense extensively featured first and second-year players, contributing to their ongoing development. The Chiefs’ defense is primed to break out as they capitalize on the experience gained from their Super Bowl victory, the Chiefs' defense is primed to break out.
However, the Chiefs have grappled with lingering injuries affecting their defensive backs. Cornerback L'Jarius Sneed has been absent from training camp, minicamp, and both preseason games due to a swollen knee. Coach Andy Reid has kept Sneed out of practice as a precaution.
Cornerback Trent McDuffie encountered a "stress injury" in his leg during OTAs, prompting concerns about his season-long durability. His practice regimen might require management during training camp and early in the season.
Rookie defensive end Felix Anudike-Uzomah underwent thumb surgery prior to the draft but appears to have fully recovered.
Under the guidance of head coach Mike Tomlin and defensive coordinator Teryl Austin, the Steelers have consistently demonstrated strong performance year after year. This season is no exception, with additions like Patrick Peterson and rookie Joey Porter Jr.
Moreover, former Defensive Player of the Year T.J. Watt enters the season in good health, unencumbered by past offseason surgeries. Although he endured a torn pectoral earlier, he made a mid-November return.
Cam Heyward and Patrick Peterson, both NFL veterans of a decade, have been active participants in all offseason activities, assuming leadership roles within the team.
Written by David Chao, MD
