3. Chicago Bears
The Bears clearly had the worst run defense in the NFL last season, as they allowed 161.4 rushing yards per game, which was about 26 yards more than the 31st-ranked run defense. General manager Phil Emery was clearly embarrassed with the Bears’ defensive line’s performance as he signed three defensive ends. Jared Allen and Lamarr Houston will instantly upgrade the pass rush and improve the run defense. They also signed Willie Young for depth at defensive end, and Ryan Mundy represents an upgrade at safety. With the drastic improvement of their defensive line, cornerbacks Charles Tillman and Tim Jennings will inevitably bounce back. The drafting of Kyle Fuller in the first round doesn’t hurt either. Linebacker Lance Briggs may also have a little bit of juice left in the tank, and second-year linebacker Jon Bostic looks promising and should build on his rookie season.
2. Houston Texans
The Texans had an uncharacteristically poor performance on defense in 2013 as they allowed 26.8 points per game, which ranked 24th in the NFL. This was largely due to poor quarterback play though. The addition of Jadeveon Clowney will instantly upgrade the unit though, and he will be able to take pressure off of defensive end J.J. Watt. Brian Cushing’s return will also give the linebackers a boost, but the depth behind him was exposed. Whitney Mercilus is a young outside linebacker on the rise, and playing with Watt and Clowney will only benefit him. The cornerback duo is also solid while upgrades were made at safety with the signing of Chris Clemons.
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