NFL Power Rankings: Earl Thomas and the Other 31 Safeties
By Erik Lambert
Aug 22, 2014; Seattle, WA, USA; Seattle Seahawks free safety Earl Thomas (29) jogs off the field after returning a punt for 59 yards against the Chicago Bears during the first half at CenturyLink Field. Mandatory Credit: Steven Bisig-USA TODAY Sports
Safety is arguably the most important position that decides between good and great teams. Who are the best of every team in the NFL power rankings?
The brains behind the best defense in football. Many believe Earl Thomas deserved the Defensive Player of the Year award last season. Tremendously versatile, tough and smart. He is everywhere for the Seattle Seahawks and was a key reason they are champs.. S. Seattle Seahawks. Earl Thomas. 1. player. 36
A prolific playmaker on what was a struggling franchise. Jairus Byrd feels he’s the best safety in the league and proved it by reaching his third Pro Bowl. Then he decided to leave Buffalo and joined the New Orleans Saints, where he is certain to play with more leads and will be able to use his gifted ability to create turnovers.. S. New Orleans Saints. Jairus Byrd. 2. player. 15
3. player. 124. There are some out there who say Eric Berry isn’t that great in coverage. Well his four interception and 10 passes defensed in 2013 say otherwise. Pair that with his prowess as a blitzer (four sacks) and you have a safety that is an all-around nightmare for offenses.. S. Kansas City Chiefs. Eric Berry
13. Year after year it seems like Eric Weddle is playing on bad defenses and year after year he makes it look like it doesn’t matter. The San Diego Chargers Pro Bowler is extremely instinctive, always knowing where he has to be and when he has to be there. He is adept in coverage, tackles, blitzes and is a leader.. S. San Diego Chargers. Eric Weddle. 4. player