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ESPN conducted a comprehensive poll involving executives, players, and coaches to determine the best Safeties in the NFL.
The survey, part of ESPN’s 2023 NFL season preview, was carried out by Jeremy Fowler and involved league executives, coaches, scouts, and players who contributed to ranking the top 10 players at each of the 11 different positions, spanning from quarterback to cornerback and all positions in between.
Rankings For: Off-the-ball Linebackers, Defensive Tackles, Edge Rushers, Cornerbacks, Safeties, Tight Ends, Running Backs, Offensive Tackles, Guards/Centers, Quarterbacks, Wide Receivers
In today’s NFL, a Safety needs to be a well-rounded player who combines size, speed, and playmaking abilities.
They must be capable of defending against powerful ball carriers, running with agile receivers, and making impactful plays to create turnovers. Their versatility and skill set make them a vital component of any successful defensive unit
Here’s the list:
- Minkah Fitzpatrick – Pittsburgh Steelers
- Derwin James – Los Angeles Chargers
- Justin Simmons – Denver Broncos
- Budda Baker – Arizona Cardinals
- Jevon Holland – Miami Dolphins
- Jessie Bates – Atlanta Falcons
- Kevin Byard – Tennessee Titans
- C.J. Gardner-Johnson – Detroit Lions
- Talanoa Hufanga – San Francisco 49ers
- Antoine Winfield – Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Honorable mentions:
- Quandre Diggs – Seattle Seahawks
- Marcus Williams – Baltimore Ravens
- Kyle Dugger – New England Patriots
- Jordan Poyer – Buffalo Bills
- Micah Hyde – Buffalo Bills
- Xavier McKinney – New York Giants
- Jalen Pitre – Houston Texans
Additional Votes:
Several safeties received votes but did not make it into the top 10 or honorable mentions
- Tyrann Mathieu – New Orleans Saints
- Eddie Jackson – Chicago Bears
- Jeremy Chinn – Carolina Panthers
- Jayron Kearse – Dallas Cowboys
- Justin Reid – Kansas City Chiefs
As the 2023 NFL season approaches, fans can look forward to witnessing the skill, athleticism, and impact of these talented safeties as they strive to solidify their positions among the league’s elite.