NFL Power Rankings: Earl Thomas and the Other 31 Safeties
By Erik Lambert
Oct 20, 2013; East Rutherford, NJ, USA; New England Patriots defensive back Devin McCourty (32) tackles New York Jets running back Chris Ivory (33) during the overtime period at MetLife Stadium. The Jets defeated the Patriots 30-27 in overtime. Mandatory Credit: Ed Mulholland-USA TODAY Sports
47. Switching from corner to safety proved one of the best decision the New England Patriots made on Devin McCourty. His stats don’t entirely show it but he has become the critical lynch pin in the Pats secondary, is rarely out of position and now has better corners in Darrelle Revis and Brandon Browner to help him.. S. New England Patriots. Devin McCourty. 9. player
Detroit Lions. Glover Quin. 10. player. 50. Poor cornerback play really masked how well Glover Quin played for the Detroit Lions in his first season there after leaving Houston. He’s around the football all the time, either in coverage or against the run. Not flashy but very efficient.. S
48. Lovie Smith is in town and Mark Barron is going to love it. The young safety had a productive year for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers last season with two interceptions and two sacks but his best years may be ahead under Smith.. S. Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Mark Barron. 11. player
52. Playing on a rebuilding team is never easy, especially as a rookie but Johnathan Cyprien made the most of it, turning in a solid first outing for the Jacksonville Jaguars. Now he’s experienced and has a much improved defensive line in front of him.. S. Jacksonville Jaguars. Johnathan Cyprien. 12. player