We’ve now made it to the other side of the trenches in our NFC South rankings — this time, evaluating the defensive line units across the division. Some teams made key investments in this April’s draft to strengthen their front, adding much-needed strength and athleticism in the trenches. Others, however, face mounting concerns due to aging veterans, lack of depth, or overall talent drop-off. Other than the quarterback position, much of these team’s success will be determined by the performance of this group.
Let’s take a look at how each unit stacks up heading into the 2025 season:
Advertisement
CHARLOTTE, NORTH CAROLINA – JANUARY 07: Derrick Brown #95 of the Carolina Panthers tackles Baker Mayfield #6 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the third quarter at Bank of America Stadium on January 07, 2024 in Charlotte, North Carolina. (Photo by Jared C. Tilton/Getty Images)
The Carolina Panthers still have plenty of work to do along the defensive line outside of Pro Bowler Derrick Brown. Their failed pursuit of Milton Williams left them scrambling for answers this offseason. Now, much of the pressure falls on free agent addition Patrick Jones II and second-round pick Nic Scourton, both of whom will need to contribute early and often if this group hopes to take a step forward in 2025.
CHARLOTTE, NORTH CAROLINA – SEPTEMBER 25: Cameron Jordan #94 of the New Orleans Saints rushes against Taylor Moton #72 of the Carolina Panthers during the first quarter at Bank of America Stadium on September 25, 2022 in Charlotte, North Carolina. (Photo by Grant Halverson/Getty Images)
The New Orleans Saints are transitioning into a new defensive scheme under Brandon Staley, which will push several players into unfamiliar roles this season. The re-signing of Chase Young and the addition of Davon Godchaux from New England will be two key pillars for this group up front. If the Saints can also unlock more consistent production from younger pieces like Carl Granderson and Bryan Bresee, this unit has the potential to take a major step forward in 2025.
Advertisement
Dec 5, 2022; Tampa, Florida, USA; Tampa Bay Buccaneers defensive tackle Vita Vea (50) reacts against the New Orleans Saints during the first quarter at Raymond James Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Douglas DeFelice-USA TODAY Sports
Tampa Bay’s front, led by Pro Bowler Vita Vea, should remain one of the more stout units in the league. After allowing just under 100 rushing yards per game last season, the Bucs consistently proved to be a force up front. To boost their pass rush, the team added veteran edge rusher Haason Reddick in free agency, pairing him with rising talent YaYa Diaby — who has flashed potential over the past couple of seasons.
Sep 7, 2014; Atlanta, GA, USA; Atlanta Falcons fans pass a logo flag across the stands during the game against the New Orleans Saints during the second half at the Georgia Dome. The Falcons defeated the Saints 37-34 in overtime. Mandatory Credit: Dale Zanine-USA TODAY Sports
The Atlanta Falcons had arguably the most exciting offseason in the division, selecting edge rusher Jalon Walker out of Georgia with the 15th overall pick — then doubling down by trading a future first-rounder to move back into Round 1 and grab James Pearce Jr. out of Tennessee. With two potential cornerstone edge rushers in place and a solid interior already established, this group could quickly develop into one of the league’s most formidable defensive fronts.
This article originally appeared on Saints Wire: Ranking each defensive line in the NFC South, from worst to first