Category: American Style Football

On the latest episode of Yahoo Sports' "Football 301," host Nate Tice and guest Diante Lee of The Ringer set out to answer an offseason debate: which defenders are set to define the 2026 NFL season?

Tice and Lee drafted their top picks for a one-year, all-defensive draft, ranking their selections by a blend of advanced stats, positional value and the all-important "culture-setter" factor. Here's a recap of their consensus top-five defenders and some of the reasoning behind their choices.

These five defenders were highlighted not just for their raw production, but also their ability to transform schemes, elevate teammates, and serve as centerpieces for Super Bowl-caliber units. According to Tice and Lee, expect them to be the most influential defensive forces of the 2026 season.

1. Will Anderson Jr., Houston Texans, EDGE

For Lee, the top pick had to be Anderson, the Texans' superstar edge rusher. Lee praised Anderson's "explosion in sack production," pointing to his 12 sacks last season and his dominance as a run defender, which Lee argued was the best at his position league-wide.

Advanced stats back it up: Anderson posted a 97th percentile sack rate and an equally elite QB hit rate. His relentless style sets the tone for the Texans' defense, transforming what it means to play defensive end in Houston.

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2. Myles Garrett, Los Angeles Rams, EDGE

Tice followed up by selecting Garrett, now a key piece on the Rams. The panel described Garrett as "one of the true best players in football" and "one of the best players I've ever seen in my life"

Garrett's transition to L.A. is a potential game-changer, reminiscent of era-defining player moves like Randy Moss to the Patriots and Reggie White to the Packers . Garrett's ability to disrupt both run and pass sets him apart, and Lee suggested that L.A.'s infrastructure could unlock his very best season yet.

3. Micah Parsons, Green Bay Packers, EDGE

Lee emphasized Parsons' "transformational" traits, his perennial 2%+ sack rate and his ability to single-handedly elevate the run and pass defense. Parsons' on-off splits, where Green Bay's defense plummets in his absence, drive home just how rare his impact can be.

The consensus: if he's healthy, few defenders can change a game like Parsons.

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4. Pat Surtain II, Denver Broncos, CB

Surtain is described as "one of the best corners I've ever watched" and "the prototype" at the position, thanks to a rare blend of size, speed, quickness and football IQ. Both hosts compared Surtain's effect to Darrelle Revis: eliminate half the field, force quarterbacks to look elsewhere and anchor any coverage shell.

5. Chris Jones, Kansas City Chiefs, DT

Rounding out the top five is Jones, a true game-wrecker. Lee couldn't leave Jones off his board, citing his penchant for taking over games, especially in critical moments like the second half vs. Indianapolis last year.

While Jones "picks and chooses his spots," when he's engaged, he's simply "unblockable." His presence fundamentally redefines what offenses are able to do, even if the box sheet doesn't always show a 10-tackle, 3-sack stat line.

For more on the NFL, listen to "Football 301" wherever you get your podcasts.

The rookie grace period is over. Now it’s time to see how the 2025 NFL Draft’s quarterback class performs as sophomores.

One this week’s episode of the “Football 301” podcast on Yahoo Sports, Nate Tice and Matt Harmon discuss the most notable QBs entering their second seasons and what fans should look for in 2026.

From No. 1 overall pick Cam Ward to fifth-round selection Shedeur Sanders, there’s a wide range in potential outcomes.

Cam Ward, Tennessee Titans

Yahoo Sports’ “Football 301” podcast hosts Nate Tice and Matt Harmon dedicated a large segment of an episode this week discussing the key unanswered questions across the league following the 2026 NFL Draft. They emphasized that many teams still have significant uncertainties that will play out over the coming months.

There was agreement that no team in the league is perfect after the draft, with most contenders having at least one significant roster or schematic question mark.

Many teams are relying on internal growth, health and coaching adjustments to offset lingering holes as they prepare for training camp and the season ahead. The AFC, in particular, looks especially wide open due to these uncertainties.

Here’s a summary of the main questions they outlined for several prominent teams and units:

Kansas City Chiefs offense

Question: Is the Chiefs’ run game, offensive line, and return of Eric Bieniemy enough to mask the concerns at wide receiver?

The Chiefs went defense-heavy in the draft, and the only notable additions at receiver were late-round picks and undrafted free agents.

The team is essentially running it back with Rashee Rice as WR1 and Xavier Worthy as WR2, both of whom are question marks.

Harmon specifically questioned whether this group of pass-catchers is enough to open up the passing game and keep defenses honest.

“… they kind of need like a big-body receiver, somebody to really win against press man coverage and be kind of that guy on late downs in contested catch situations,” Harmon said. “And to me, I think on paper they still don't really have that guy.”

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Buffalo Bills’ defensive front

Question: Did the Bills do enough on defense, especially along the line and at pass rusher, to contend with other top AFC teams?

While they added T.J. Parker and some veterans, there are still questions about having an “ace” edge rusher or closer for playoff games.

Tice noted concern that the team may be relying too much on Jim Leonhard’s coaching ability to “game up” pressure without having top-end talent.

“He has a defense that can do that,” Tice said. “But this is what's given the Bills issues in the past is that when it came to, you know, the elite games, the playoff games, the tight games, they didn't have that closer. That's why they signed Von Miller. Joey Bosa did a good job for them last year, but then Joey Bosa just had a horrid game in the playoffs against the Broncos and just making a bunch of mistakes, which has always been a little thing with Joey. But I don't think they really have that ace.”

Green Bay Packers seem stuck

Question: Do the Packers have a top-10 unit on either side of the ball after their offseason moves?

After a relatively quiet free agency and some key injuries, it’s unclear if either the offense or defense is elite, or if the roster is simply “stuck in the middle” while relying on internal development.

Harmon challenged whether enough improvement has happened for the Packers to stand out, especially with so many young players expected to take a big leap. The wide receiver room was condensed, which could help, although here were the results of the top guys last season:

Yahoo Sports’ “Football 301” podcast had a deep discussion on defensive prospects for the 2026 NFL Draft. This class of defensive backs is full of intriguing players, though as hosts Nate Tice and Charles McDonald pointed out, very few are "perfect" blue-chippers, with most showing clear strengths but notable blemishes.

The NFL's move toward more split-safety, zone-heavy defenses has reshaped what teams need in a DB. No longer is prototype size and length a mandatory ticket in the first two rounds; now, smarts, quickness and versatility open the door for players who, five years ago, might have been overlooked.

This 2026 class may lack an undisputed Jalen Ramsey or Sauce Gardner, but it offers a raft of smart, athletic and competitive defensive backs ready to fill starting roles — and potentially develop into more. With team needs and schemes more varied than ever, expect many of these names to contribute (if not star) on Sundays for years to come.

Mansoor Delane, LSU

A transfer from Virginia Tech, Delane is widely seen as a top-tier zone corner. Tice raved about his "play recognition" and "ball skills," emphasizing how Delane closes quickly on underneath routes and brings "twitch" to the position. While he doesn’t possess elite length or overwhelming speed, Tice and McDonald agree he's a high-floor starter. He may not erase top receivers like past top-10 picks, but Delane brings versatility and reliability.

The closest comp: A.J. Terrell, a smart, adaptable, and productive corner capable of shining in zone coverage and holding his own in man.

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Jermod McCoy, Tennessee

If there’s a player with the raw materials to become an upper-echelon shutdown corner in this group, it’s McCoy. McDonald pointed out his rare combination of length, speed and youth (he’s only 20). The catch: His 2025 season was lost to an ACL injury, so the NFL will be banking on pre-injury tape and projections. Still, McCoy "moves like one of those top guys," Tice said, and if healthy, could outperform his eventual draft slot.

Avieon Terrell, Clemson

The younger brother of A.J. Terrell, Avion is slightly smaller and less explosive, but he’s feisty, polished and disruptive at the catch point. He’s an ideal CB2 or slot corner, capable of making smart plays, tackling in space, and providing much-needed versatility. Tice compared him to a "Diet Coke version of Devon Witherspoon" — that is, not quite as dynamic, but reliable and scheme-versatile.

Colton Hood, Tennessee

One of the best testers at the scouting combine, Hood combines quickness, length and physicality. His press-man technique and willingness to tackle stand out, although McDonald wants to see expanded lateral agility and more consistency in man coverage. Still, Hood offers a competitive streak reminiscent of Carlton Davis and could develop into a high-end starter if he cleans up some technical concerns.

2026 NFL Draft individual big boards: Nate Tice | Charles McDonald

Keionte Scott, Miami

A slot specialist, Scott plays fast, smart and aggressive. He’s seemingly always around the ball. McDonald spotlighted his turnarounds at Miami and his standout pro day, describing him as a "high-floor starter." Age (as a 25-year-old rookie) is a concern, but he brings the football IQ and big-play experience teams love in Day 2 picks.

Chris Johnson, San Diego State

Late in the process, Johnson became one of Tice's favorite "riser" candidates. A smooth, efficient mover, Johnson shines in man coverage with the balance and mirror ability reminiscent of a veteran. While he may lack elite upside, he’s a classic plug-and-play CB2— especially appealing to teams who need a steady presence opposite an established CB1.

Domani Jackson, Alabama

Jackson's journey from hyped high school recruit, to struggling at USC, to starter at Alabama is a reminder of how development and fit matter. While not a shutdown corner, he brings size, speed and pedigree. McDonald called him a potential “draft riser,” a high-upside dart throw who has the physical tools to stick as a starter or versatile backup.

D’Angelo Ponds, Indiana

Though undersized, Ponds epitomizes the new breed of versatile, feisty corners whose awareness and ball skills can outweigh physical limitations. He drew comparisons to Antoine Winfield Sr., illustrating a willingness to tackle and disrupt despite subpar measurables.

Yahoo Sports’ Nate Tice and Charles McDonald on the “Football 301” podcast recently dove deep into the 2026 NFL Draft’s defensive line and edge rusher class, unspooling their rankings, comps and assessments of this year’s talent. While the class may not feature a Nick Bosa or Will Anderson Jr. at the very top, it’s rich with intriguing, versatile, and even some polarizing prospects. Here’s an in-depth look at the top defensive linemen and edge rushers as discussed on the show.

While the 2026 defensive line class may lack a generational talent at the top, it’s deeply layered with ready-to-contribute pros and workaround flaws for creative coordinators. Arvell Reese, Rueben Bain Jr. and Caleb Banks headline the group with their unique blend of football traits and projectable athleticism. Just as intriguing are the classic “high floor” defenders like T.J. Parker, Zion Young and Kayden McDonald, whose names may not elicit big reactions now, but could anchor NFL defenses for the next decade.

Arvell Reese: The rare Swiss Army Knife

Both Tice and McDonald had Ohio State’s Arvell Reese ranked No. 2 on their big boards —unusual consensus for such do-it-all prospects.

Reese flashes an “otherworldly talent” that evokes memories of Micah Parsons with rare ability to play traditional linebacker, edge or even an old-school 3-4 Sam.

What makes Reese unique isn’t just his explosiveness, length, or speed, but his motor: “every play is the last play to the Super Bowl,” Tice said.

While Reese’s true NFL role may depend on schematic fit and development, he’s a near lock as a top-three draft pick.

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Rueben Bain Jr.: Short arms but short list of complaints

Miami’s Rueben Bain Jr. has been a lightning rod for discussion — some scouts fixate on his “short arms,” but both Yahoo analysts dismiss arm length concerns after breaking down his tape. As McDonald emphasized, Bain’s film answers most critiques: he’s strong as an ox, explosive, aware and can kick inside on passing downs.

Tice continued the praise, comparing Bain’s career arc to Brandon Graham — maybe never a 15-sack superstar, but a consistent pressure generator who plays every down with maximum effort. He’s as reliable as they come, and will almost certainly hear his name early on draft night.

David Bailey: The raw, relentless flamethrower

Texas Tech’s David Bailey earns accolades for his constant disruption and “flamethrower” style. Bailey isn’t always the most technically sound, but his effort, athleticism and pass rush productivity speak for themselves. He reportedly racked up over 80 pressures this past season.

The main concern from Tice and McDonald centers on his run defense, which can be streaky and exposed by more dynamic competition. Even with those limitations, his ability to get after quarterbacks gives him immense value. In a draft class less flush with surefire stars, Bailey stands out for all the right reasons.

TJ Parker, Zion Young: Edge-setters and tone setters

If your team needs an edge defender who will play sound, technically proficient football, Clemson’s TJ Parker and Mizzou’s Zion Young are the names to highlight. Both Parker (described as the “everyman edge”) and Young (the “rugged guy of the draft”) play with heavy hands, consistently set the edge, and don’t go rogue chasing TFLs.

These aren’t elite bendy speed rushers, but they’re the backbone of any top defense —players who will play 50+ snaps a game, rarely make mistakes, and do the dirty work so the flashier defenders on their team can thrive.

Caleb Banks: Thanos-sized Upside, missing some production

Perhaps no prospect in the class is more physically imposing than Florida’s 6-foot-6, 330-pound monster Caleb Banks. McDonald called him “Thanos” and compared him to NFL stalwarts like Marcus Stroud and even Albert Haynesworth.

Banks moves extremely well for his size and has flashed freakish disruption — but, as noted in the pod, his production is shockingly light, with long stretches of inactivity (and some alarming tackling issues). He might scare away some teams, but the right coaching staff could unlock All-Pro potential.

Keldric Faulk: The ultimate versatile big man

Auburn’s Keldric Faulk spent time as a traditional edge, interior lineman and 3-4 defensive end, offering rare, ready-to-deploy versatility. At nearly 6-foot-6, 276 pounds with 34-inch arms, Faulk has the length, traits and run-defending prowess to plug and play all along a defensive front. Both Tice and McDonald see his floor as a high-end run defender, with hopes that he further develops as a pass rusher.

Other defenders in the mix

• Peter Woods (Clemson): Once viewed as a potential top-5 pick because of elite flashes, questions about arm length, conditioning and consistency have dropped his stock. Still, he could provide special plays as a rotational defensive tackle.

• Kayden McDonald (Ohio State): A nose tackle with powerful hands and steady production. He’ll rarely get moved off his spot and could start in any two-high safety, run-heavy defense.

• Christen Miller (Georgia): A “mauler” with upside, but with enough bad tape to make him more of a Day 2 dice roll.