1. Pittsburgh Steelers

Always a consistent squad with numerous playmakers led by Troy Polamalu, LaMarr Woodley, and James Harrison.

2. New York Giants

The return of Osi Umenyiora should help bolster the stats even with defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo departing for St. Louis.

3. Minnesota Vikings

Minnesota ranks near the top in rush defense and added the dynamic Percy Harvin to the special teams unit.

4. Baltimore Ravens

Will undergo a bit of adjustment after losing several key defensive pieces, but they should still be productive in the AFC North.

5. New York Jets

Ex-Raven defensive guru takes over this rising unit and brought along plenty of help in Bart Scott and Jim Leonhard.

6. Philadelphia Eagles

Rock-solid defensive unit will have heavy hearts after losing defensive mastermind Jim Johnson in the off season.

7. Dallas Cowboys

Demarcus Ware’s 20 sacks led the Cowboys to the league sack title in 2008.

8. Tennessee Titans

Productive Titan defense will likely take a step backward without Albert Haynesworth, but they’re still plenty effective.

9. New England Patriots

The Patriots added veterans Shawn Springs and Leigh Bodden to the mix after a down defensive year.

10. San Diego Chargers

Shawn Merriman’s return and 4 games against Denver and Oakland are enough to help the Chargers be among the top 10 fantasy defenses.