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Pass Rush

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49ers set sights on bolstering the defensive front this offseason
sports1 day ago

49ers set sights on bolstering the defensive front this offseason

San Francisco GM John Lynch says upgrading the defensive front is the top offseason priority to improve the pass rush and stop the run after a 13-win season; with free agency dollars and seven 2026 draft picks, the 49ers are targeting a proven defensive tackle and more edge pressure opposite Nick Bosa, as last season’s sack rate was league-worst and the run defense was 20nd in yards per carry. Rookies Mykel Williams (ACL), Alfred Collins, and C.J. West contributed last year, and Raheem Morris could tweak the defense this offseason.

Two Top Edge Rushers Could Define the 2026 Super Bowl Run
sports1 day ago

Two Top Edge Rushers Could Define the 2026 Super Bowl Run

As the 2026 NFL draft nears, Rueben Bain and David Bailey are viewed as the two premier edge rushers, combining prolific college production with high ceiling projections. Bain brings a relentless, kill-all mindset and has made a strong impression at the NFL combine, while Bailey combines elite speed and bend with a psychological/mental approach. With the class depth at edge and teams prioritizing pressure to shake up quarterback play, Bain or Bailey could be the game-changing addition for a Super Bowl contender.

Chiefs Eye Three Free-Agent DT Options to Shore Up Interior
sports4 days ago

Chiefs Eye Three Free-Agent DT Options to Shore Up Interior

With free agency approaching, the Kansas City Chiefs want to bolster their interior defensive line after a disappointing 2025 season. They’re reportedly targeting three unrestricted free agents—Roy Lopez, John Franklin-Myers, and Tim Settle—each offering different fits and price points: Lopez as a plug-and-play one-tech with a projected $6.5M/year, Franklin-Myers as a veteran interior rusher around $8M/year, and Settle as a more affordable option near $4M/year. The move is viewed as filling gaps for 1–2 seasons rather than providing a long-term solution as the team continues to develop younger talent.

Jones-Driven Defensive Overhaul Eyes Washington Commanders
sports1 month ago

Jones-Driven Defensive Overhaul Eyes Washington Commanders

Daronte Jones was hired as the Washington Commanders’ defensive coordinator, signaling a significant shift from the prior regime. With experience from the Vikings, Brian Flores, and LSU, Jones is expected to implement a faster, more exotic blitz-heavy scheme that requires dynamic edge rushers. The front office under GM Adam Peters plans a personnel overhaul to fit the new scheme, with Dorance Armstrong Jr. likely back but Preston Smith probably gone as Washington rebuilds its pass rush. Leadership’s faith in Jones hinges on successfully aligning players and scheme to improve the defense.

Patriots face daunting test against Broncos' blitz-heavy defense
sports1 month ago

Patriots face daunting test against Broncos' blitz-heavy defense

The Patriots must navigate a road playoff showdown with the Broncos, whose defense is among the league’s best and thrives on constant pressure and blitzes. Vrabel lauds Denver’s personnel and scheme as a tough challenge, while the Patriots stress ball security and may use silent counts to blunt the noise and edge rush. If New England can contain the Broncos’ pressure and protect the football, it could determine whether their postseason run continues on the road.

Cowboys' Defensive Struggles Threaten 2025 Season
sports2 months ago

Cowboys' Defensive Struggles Threaten 2025 Season

The Dallas Cowboys' defense has struggled all season, characterized by a bend-and-break style that allows long drives and points, largely due to the loss of their star pass rusher and inadequate pass rush production. To improve, they need to focus on acquiring effective pass rushers and possibly changing defensive coordinators, with an emphasis on strengthening the trenches and finding players who can pressure the quarterback without blitzing.

NFL Week 15 Injuries Shake Up Playoff Outlook
sports2 months ago

NFL Week 15 Injuries Shake Up Playoff Outlook

The Green Bay Packers' prospects for the 2025 season have significantly diminished, especially with Micah Parsons likely out for the year, exposing weaknesses in their pass rush and defense. The team faces a tough upcoming game against the Bears, with key players potentially returning from injury, but overall, expectations should be lowered for the remainder of the season.

49ers and Rams Prepare for Key NFC West Clash
sports3 months ago

49ers and Rams Prepare for Key NFC West Clash

The San Francisco 49ers' defense will look significantly different in their upcoming game against the Rams due to multiple injuries and lineup changes, which could impact their performance against a strong Rams offense. The 49ers' pass rush has been underwhelming this season, and facing a well-protected Matthew Stafford will be challenging. Additionally, their rushing attack has struggled against top-tier defenses, and the game will be a tough test for their run game against the Rams' solid run defense.