As a football fan and writer, I know that safeties are one of the most underrated positions in the game. They may not get as much attention as quarterbacks or wide receivers, but they play a crucial role in every defensive scheme.
So, without further ado, here are some of the best safeties in the NFL today:
1. Tyrann Mathieu – Kansas City Chiefs: Nicknamed “The Honey Badger,” Mathieu is one of the most versatile players in the league. He can line up at safety or cornerback and can cover both slot receivers and tight ends. His ability to read plays and make quick decisions has earned him three Pro Bowl selections and one First-Team All-Pro selection.
2. Jamal Adams – Seattle Seahawks: Adams was traded from the New York Jets to Seattle before last season, and he immediately made an impact on their defense. He’s known for his physicality and aggressiveness, which makes him a dominant force against both the run and pass.
3. Minkah Fitzpatrick – Pittsburgh Steelers: Fitzpatrick was also traded mid-season (from Miami to Pittsburgh) during his sophomore year in 2019. Since then, he’s been a ball-hawking machine with nine interceptions over 24 games with Pittsburgh; including four pick-sixes along with two forced fumbles.
4. Justin Simmons – Denver Broncos: Simmons was named Second-Team All-Pro last season after recording four interceptions while playing all 16 games for Denver’s defense.
5. Budda Baker – Arizona Cardinals: At only 5’10”, Baker doesn’t have prototypical size for a safety, but what he lacks there he more than makes up for with his speed (recorded fastest time ever by any defensive back at combine). He led all NFL defensive backs last year with 104 tackles while earning First-Team All-Pro honors himself.
6. Harrison Smith – Minnesota Vikings: Smith has been a consistent force for the Vikings since he was drafted in 2012. He’s made five Pro Bowls and has been named First-Team All-Pro twice; a nod to his ability to read plays and create turnovers.
7. Derwin James – Los Angeles Chargers: James missed all of last season due to injury, but if he can regain his rookie form from 2018 (where he had three interceptions, 13 passes defensed, and 3.5 sacks) then he’ll be one of the most dominant safeties in the league once again.
8. Kevin Byard – Tennessee Titans: Byard has been a starter for the Titans since his rookie year in 2016, and over that span, he’s recorded 17 interceptions along with earning two Pro Bowl selections.
9. Eddie Jackson – Chicago Bears: Over the past four seasons with Chicago, Jackson has notched ten interceptions while also contributing on special teams as a punt returner; even taking two back for touchdowns during his career thus far.
10. Adrian Amos – Green Bay Packers: After spending four years in Chicago himself between (2015-18), Amos signed with rival Green Bay prior to last season where he started every game while recording two interceptions.
Honorable Mentions:
– Jessie Bates III (Cincinnati Bengals)
– John Johnson III (Cleveland Browns)
– Harrison Smith’s teammate Xavier Woods
– Marcus Williams (New Orleans Saints)
Ultimately, each safety listed above is an integral part of their respective team’s defensive scheme. While they may not get as much attention or accolades as some other positions do around them – including other defenders such as linebackers or cornerbacks – safeties are just as important when it comes down to stopping opposing offenses on game day.
In conclusion: whether you’re rooting for your favorite team or just enjoying football on Sundays this fall/winter season; take time out appreciate the safeties around the league who are helping their team’s defense stay on top of things.