NFL All-Underrated Team: Defense
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New York, NY (PSF) — As we are nearing the end of the All-Underrated Team, we have reached the future stars of the NFL on defense. These are the guys who will become staples in the future of NFL defense. At two of the hardest positions in the NFL (defensive backs and linebackers), these players have gone above and beyond for their respective teams, and fans of their franchises should be very happy with the development of these players. These four DBs and two LBs deserve these spots because they have all shined in the big lights of the NFL and deserve some praise.
Jack Jones (Cornerback) - New England Patriots
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Jack Jones was a rookie this year; however, he did not play like it. Jones was able to record 26 solo tackles on the season; he only allowed 20 receptions on 39 targets and was able to make three splash plays with two interceptions and a forced fumble.
Kamren Curl (Safety) - Washington Commanders
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Kam Curl may be the most underrated player in this article, as he was a force for Washington’s defense this year. He should have been in consideration for the All-Pro team and I would not be surprised if he made an appearance next year. He racked up 67 tackles and was targeted 36 times giving up 29 receptions. While you may think that is not impressive, Curl being able to reach a whopping 67 tackles is impressive being that he is only about 195 pounds. They went 6-4-1 when he suited up and 2-4 when he was inactive. Curl is an impending free agent and will get a nice contract this offseason whether it be in Washington, or elsewhere.
L’Jarius Sneed (Cornerback) - Kansas City Chiefs
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L’Jarius Sneed is the most active cornerback in the NFL. Simply put, he never had a dull moment this season. He ranked second in targets at 105 and was tied for first with 72 receptions allowed. Sure, his numbers do not look good, but that is because he is being thrown at constantly. Sneed certainly deserves more recognition and look for him to make an impact in the Super Bowl for Kansas City. He will be a player to watch for years to come.
Jaquan Brisker (Safety) - Chicago Bears
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Jaquan Brisker was able to make a huge impact in his rookie season, despite not having much around him in Chicago. He played 87.9% of the defensive snaps for the Bears and quickly became the defenses’ leader after the departure of Roquan Smith mid-season. He posted 73 tackles and one interception on the season. Having Eddie Jackson playing next to him, the Bears could easily have the best safety tandem in the NFL sooner rather than later.
Frankie Luvu (Linebacker) - Carolina Panthers
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Frankie Luvu is a stud and has been for most of his career, yet he still has not received his praise. This season was the most impressive of his career. He racked up 111 tackles with 19 being tackles for loss, seven sacks, a forced fumble, and even managed to get into the end zone with a pick six. The Panthers desperately needed Luvu to be the guy after Haason Reddick’s departure to Philly, and it has worked out well for the Panthers. Luvu now anchors a Panthers defense that is full of young talent and could be one of the better units in the NFL shortly. With Luvu at the helm, the sky is the limit for this group.
T.J. Edwards (Linebacker) - Philadelphia Eagles
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T.J. Edwards has been a feel-good story for the Super Bowl bound Eagles this year. He was an undrafted free agent in 2019 from Wisconsin, and has now become the leader of Philly’s top three defense. He had 125 solo tackles, which were best for second in the entire league. To add to those ridiculous tackle numbers, he also had two sacks. Edwards is a building block for an Eagles defense that is loaded and every level and personally, I hate that the Giants have to play him twice a year.