NFL Power Rankings: Earl Thomas and the Other 31 Safeties
By Erik Lambert
Dec 15, 2013; Atlanta, GA, USA; Atlanta Falcons safety William Moore (25) intercepts a pass against the Washington Redskins during the second half at the Georgia Dome. The Falcons defeated the Redskins 27-26. Mandatory Credit: Dale Zanine-USA TODAY Sports
Atlanta Falcons. William Moore. 13. player. 44. Playing defense seems like a foreign concept to the Atlanta Falcons of late, but that didn’t stop William Moore. An understated two-way threat, he does everything asked of him from play coverage, to stop the run to sacking the quarterback. He deserve more credit than he gets.. S
Tashaun Gipson. 14. player. 53. T.J. Ward got the notoriety in 2013 but Tashaun Gipson emerged as the better playmaker. The Cleveland Browns free safety is a ballhawk in coverage and not afraid to stick his nose in on tackles either. If he can develop his game around the box, he’ll shoot up this list.. S. Cleveland Browns
There is something to be said of reputation and D.J. Swearinger is fast building one as a fierce hitter. He, like the rest of the Houston Texans struggled last season but still managed to make some plays and looked natural on the field as a rookie. What will he accomplish now playing behind J.J. Watt AND Jadeveon Clowney?. S. Houston Texans. D.J. Swearinger. 15. player. 10
60. Minnesota Vikings head coach Mike Zimmer has a special touch when it comes to defensive backs. Experts have felt for the past few years that safety Harrison Smith is a Pro Bowler in waiting. He just needs some help to bring it out. Zimmer may be the missing element.. S. Minnesota Vikings. Harrison Smith. 16. player