NFL Power Rankings: Earl Thomas and the Other 31 Safeties
By Erik Lambert
Nov 10, 2013; Baltimore, MD, USA; Baltimore Ravens safety Matt Elam (26) looks on during the game against the Cincinnati Bengals at M&T Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Evan Habeeb-USA TODAY Sports
Baltimore Ravens. Matt Elam. 17. player. 26. Ozzie Newsome does it again. Matt Elam may not end up being another Ed Reed but the rookie safety was a major contributor in 2013. He tackles well, isn’t lost in coverage and has a nose for playing in the box.. S
player. 16. Jairus Byrd got all the love last season but the Buffalo Bills were willing to let him go for a reason. They still had Da’Norris Searcy. While not the same playmaker in coverage (1 INT in ’13), Searcy is a nightmare around the line of scrimmage, particularly when blitzing (four sacks and four QB hits).. S. Buffalo Bills. Da'Norris Searcy. 18
54. He isn’t the most efficient safety all the time but Malcolm Jenkins certainly makes impact plays. His three sacks, four forced fumbles and two interceptions were clear evidence of that his last year in New Orleans. Perhaps he’ll have better luck with the Philadelphia Eagles.. S. Philadelphia Eagles. Malcolm Jenkins. 19. player
Tennessee Titans. Bernard Pollard. 20. player. 35. Another guy who gets overlooked. Bernard Pollard isn’t perfect. If he were he would be playing for the fourth team of his career but that can’t underscore his value as a solid NFL safety. The Tennessee Titans saw it last year when he gave their defense credibility on the back end.. S