Buccaneers: Mark Barron- The Buccaneers' secondary has significantly improved -- on paper, at least -- from a year ago with the additions of veterans Darrell Revis and Dashon Goldson and rookie Johnthann Banks. And I expect Barron in particular to show significant improvement in his second season; with Revis shutting down the opponent's top receiver Barron will have a lot more opportunities to make plays in every facet of the game.
Other candidates: Adrian Clayborn, Lavonte David, Gerald McCoy, and Leonard Johnson
Falcons: Jonathan Massaquoi- The Falcons cut John Abraham in the offseason and essentially replaced him with Osi Umenyiora. The Atlanta defense recorded only 30 sacks in 2012 and they need to increase that number this year. This means seeing much improvement from second year man Jonathan Massaquoi. He did little in his rookie season but I expect him to breakout in rotational role in 2013.
Other candidates: Cliff Matthews and Robert McClain
Panthers: Greg Hardy- In 2012 Hardy amassed a career-high 11 sacks. This season marks the final year in his rookie contract, meaning he'll play his ass off in 2013 to get that big pay day in free agency next year. Also, the Panthers added to their defensive line by selecting Star Lotulelei and Kawann Short in this year's draft. Expect Hardy to really breakout in 2013 and improve his sack total from a year ago.
Other candidates: Brandon LaFell, Luke Kuechly, and Josh Norman
Saints: Nick Toon- After missing his entire rookie season with a foot injury, Toon is finally healthy and ready to roll. Currently listed as the No.3 wide receiver on the depth chart, Toon is one of many weapons at quarterback Drew Brees's disposal. He's a big target (6'2", 215lbs.) and, according to rantsports.com, his quarterback recently compared him to three-time All Pro wide out Vincent Jackson. I expect Toon to emerge in the Saints' aerial attack and breakout in this year.
Other candidates: Mark Ingram, Cameron Jordan, Akiem Hicks, and Junior Galette
*Stats courtesy of www.pro-football-reference.com
*Depth chart info courtesy of www.ourlads.com
About Me
- Justin Sullivan
- Simply put, I am a football fanatic. I'm well-informed on the game- its players, statistics, history, rules, etc. I love the sport and I enjoy sharing my point of view.
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