The New England Patriots are moving on in the NFL playoffs as their defense was dominant in a 16-3 win over the Los Angeles Chargers in the wild-card round at Gillette Stadium.

Green Bay has an NFL-low three sacks during its four-game losing streak that ended the regular season. That stretch coincided with All-Pro edge rusher Micah Parsons going down for the season with a torn ACL. Bears quarterback Caleb Williams has only been sacked once in the last three weeks, including zero times against the Packers in Week 16.

The Jaguars defense has been stout against the run this season, and greedy in getting turnovers. One out of two wasn't good enough to beat the Bills.

Oregon Ducks outside linebackers Matayo Uiagalelei and Teitum Tuioti are forgoing the 2026 NFL Draft and returning to school for their final seasons of eligibil

The Eagles needed the defense to be perfect for much of 2025 season. When it wasn't, it cost them their season.

The 2025 regular season has wrapped up, and the Minnesota Vikings somehow found a way to sneak above .500, rattling off five straight wins to close the season to get to 9-8. The offense has already received its grades; now it is time to hand out grades for this team's calling card: the defense.

This article was originally published on www.si.com/nfl/cowboys/onsi as Cowboy Roundup: Ex-Dallas stars to watch in NFL Playoffs, Defensive gameplan.

According to a few different rankings, here are the best available NFL free agent defenders for the Indianapolis Colts.

A top-ranked defensive lineman's stellar performance positions him for a lucrative free agency. Will Denver secure this critical pass-rushing force?