THREE DEFENSES THAT NEED AN UPGRADE

As the NFL season comes to wrap, we look towards the off-season with hope and an understanding that we need to be patient as teams look to how they can build from the improvements that they have made. I take a look at 3 teams that should focus more on the defensive side of things as they move on to this off season. 

Jacksonville Jaguars- Cornerback

The Jaguars have been working slowly on their defense to have what they had in the 2017 but it hasn’t been the same since all pro corner Jalen Ramsey left when he was traded to the Los Angeles Rams a few seasons ago. Now that they have the first overall pick, a franchise quarterback in Clemson Quarterback Trevor Lawrence, and a lot of cap space to build that defense from one of the bottom teams to one that has a solid defense but still areas to improve. And I think that the best decision is that they should trade for former 2020 defensive player of the year, Stephon Gilmore. Gilmore was traded to the Panthers last off-season after a few impressive seasons in New England. His leadership is one of the best in the league and I think he’ll be able to take control of the defense in Jacksonville and bring it to a possible top 15 defense in the league.

My prediction: Jaguars trade 2022 2nd and 4th and James Robinson to the Panthers in a sign and trade deal for Stephon Gilmore

Baltimore Ravens- Cornerbacks

The Ravens have had the toughest obstacles to face this season but their biggest challenge was their secondary. Losing Corners Marcus Peters and Marlon Humphrey to season ending injuries brought their defense down from a top 10 to a close to bottom of the league. While the team as a whole had disappointments, those gaps in the secondary hurt them the most and where they need to improve the most. Whether it’s trading for a star CB or bringing an major role player in defense to help Peters and Humphrey if they happen to get injured again.

My prediction: Ravens sign Tyrann Maitheu to a 2 year 25 million dollar deal 

Detroit Lions: Linebackers

Where do I begin with the Detroit Lions? They have become one of the laughing stocks of the leagues with their questionable choices in their off season bringing in many injury prone players on defense, resulting in the worst core in the league. But all it needs is a veteran presence who knows how to take control of a locker room and be the leader that the young players in the lions that they can come to for advice and focus on getting better and making a name for them. And while this is a unrealistic deal it would be best for them to at least consider especially if Rodgers comes back and the Lions need an answer to stop him. 

Lions trade 2022 1st 2023 1st and an offensive line player for Von Miller from the Rams