2023 NFL All Under 25 Defensive Team – Defense is often considered the key to winning championships in the NFL, and having a roster filled with young and talented defensive players can provide a significant advantage. In this article, we will explore the top young defensive talents in the league and present our NFL All Under 25 first and second defensive teams. These players, who are under 25 years old at the start of the NFL 2023 season, possess immense potential and are expected to make a significant impact on their respective teams. Let’s take a closer look at these rising stars.
Micah Parsons – The Versatile Defensive Monster (Cowboys)
Micah Parsons (Cowboys)
Micah Parsons has been nothing short of exceptional since his debut in the NFL. Named the 2021 Defensive Rookie of the Year, Parsons earned first-team All-Pro and Pro Bowl honors in his first two seasons. In 2022, he showcased his versatility with 13.5 sacks, three forced fumbles, three passes defended, and three fumble recoveries. His dominance has transcended traditional linebacker play, as he is expected to take on a more significant pass-rushing role in the future. Parsons is undeniably a force to be reckoned with.
2023 NFL All Under 25 Defensive Team: Aidan Hutchinson – Emerging Star in the Lions’ Defense
Aidan Hutchinson (Lions)
Aidan Hutchinson, the former No. 2 overall pick, has been making waves with his impressive performances. In his rookie season, he recorded 52 combined tackles, 15 QB hits, 9.5 sacks, and three interceptions, a feat not achieved by any other rookie since 1982 when sacks became an official statistic. His potential and upside make him a player to watch out for in the Lions’ defense.
Alim McNeill – The Underrated Defensive Tackle (Lions)
Alim McNeill (Lions)
In the realm of young defensive tackles, Alim McNeill stands out as a hidden gem in the NFL. Dubbed “the dancing bear” by his head coach, McNeill’s athleticism and versatility make him a formidable interior presence. Although he recorded just one sack in 2022, he showcased his prowess with ten pressures in a single game, setting a record for defenders over 320 pounds. With consistent performances over his two NFL seasons, McNeill is poised for a breakout year.
Jordan Davis – The Emerging Talent (Eagles)
DL: Jordan Davis (Eagles)
Jordan Davis, although recording just 18 combined tackles in his rookie season, holds immense potential as an imposing presence in the defensive line. Standing at 6-foot-6 and nearly 340 pounds, Davis’s ability to disrupt running lanes adds value to the Eagles’ defense. With an opportunity to make a significant impact following Javon Hargrave’s departure, Davis is a player to watch for the Eagles.
Linebackers Dominating the Defensive Field
LB: Nick Bolton (Chiefs)
Nick Bolton has already established himself as one of the top linebackers in the NFL. His exceptional 2022 season included a remarkable 180 combined tackles, two sacks, three passes defensed, and two interceptions. Bolton’s performance in the Super Bowl showcased his game-changing ability, solidifying his place as a key player for the Chiefs.
LB: Patrick Queen (Ravens)
Patrick Queen may be overshadowed by Roquan Smith, but he has proven to be a force to be reckoned with. In his third NFL season, Queen recorded career-high numbers in tackles, sacks, QB hits, passes defended, and interceptions. His motivated approach entering the 2023 season ensures he remains a vital asset to the Ravens.
LB: Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah (Browns)
Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah is primed for a breakout season with the Browns. His athleticism and versatility make him a valuable asset in any defensive scheme. Recording impressive stats in his limited appearances in 2022, Owusu-Koramoah has the potential to be a game-changer for the Browns under new defensive coordinator Jim Schwartz.
Stellar Young Cornerbacks and Safeties
CB: Sauce Gardner (Jets)
Sauce Gardner made an immediate impact, winning the AP Defensive Rookie of the Year in his debut season. Leading the league in passes defended and showcasing his ball-hawking skills, Gardner emerged as a standout cornerback. With a bright future ahead, he is undoubtedly a player to build a defense around.
CB: Patrick Surtain II (Broncos)
Patrick Surtain II has quickly risen as a top cornerback in the NFL, boasting an 86.8 PFF grade. Despite facing some challenges in his sophomore season, Surtain earned first-team All-Pro and Pro Bowl honors. His remarkable playmaking ability and consistency make him a defensive cornerstone for the Broncos.
S: Talanoa Hufanga (49ers)
Talanoa Hufanga’s emergence in 2022 was nothing short of impressive. Recording high-impact plays across multiple categories, he earned first-team All-Pro and Pro Bowl honors. Hufanga’s playmaking ability and versatility make him a key component of the 49ers’ defense.
S: Kamren Curl (Commanders)
Kamren Curl’s exceptional performance in the 2022 season garnered him recognition as PFF’s second-highest-graded safety. Despite being a seventh-round pick, Curl’s versatility and ability to excel in both run defense and pass coverage make him an invaluable asset for the Commanders.
Conclusion
The NFL boasts a treasure trove of young defensive talent that promises to shape the league’s future. From dominant pass rushers to ball-hawking cornerbacks, these players exhibit exceptional skills that will undoubtedly elevate their respective teams. As they continue to develop and refine their abilities, football fans can eagerly anticipate witnessing their growth on the field for years to come. The NFL betting odds are expected to be up before the preseason begins.
Hilbert Mayer
Sports Writer
Hilbert Mayer is a professional sports writer, betting analyst, and content strategist with over 15 years of experience in the sports industry. Before focusing on sports betting analysis and handicapping, Hilbert worked as a sports writer for various news outlets, covering everything from game recaps to in-depth matchup features. Today, he specializes in MLB, NFL, March Madness, and UFC betting, combining his journalistic background with deep statistical expertise and real-world betting insights. His proven track record, sharp reads, and ability to break down complex matchups make him a trusted voice among both casual bettors and seasoned sharps.
Published on: July 29, 2023
Last updated: August 3, 2023