Chiefs Defense
We all know Jared Allen can be an IDP stud when he’s on top of his game. However, keep in mind Allen has a 2-game suspension at the beginning of the season. If you’re looking for someone to replace him the first few weeks, watch out for KC’s rookie DT Turk McBride. The early buzz has been positive on the rookie. And by the way, grabbing Allen still is a great value pick this year. Most will excessively devalue him because of the 2-game suspension. Finally, when talking about KC we need to mention Tamba Hali remains a fine pickup in IDP leagues.


Eagles Defense
Last year's Eagles defense appeared to be noticeably older than previous years. Teams often ran up and down the field on the Birds keeping control of the clock. This cost the Eagles a few games, including both contests against New Orleans.

As a result, the team took steps to secure itself in the offseason, adding Takeo Spikes at linebacker along with Ian Scott and Montae Reagor along the defensive line. The return of a healthy Javon Kearse at defensive end should also help.

Although it's early, this defense is already playing with chip on its shoulder and looks pretty good in camp. They were noticeably fired up and hitting hard on Thursday, Aug. 2 in full contact drills, especially stopping Brian Westbrook and the running game. Brian Dawkins even called a meeting after the first full day of camp to talk about stopping the run this season. Jeremiah Trotter is a few pounds lighter and both are team leaders who will gain anyone attention.

Bottom Line? When Dawkins and Trotter talk, people listen. The Birds are definitely taking steps to be one of the top defenses in the league this year. The Eagles have a favorable schedule early on this season and that's something to keep in mind when taking a defense in your fantasy draft. Philly probably won't be among the first teams selected, such as Chicago and Baltimore, but keep them in mind when it comes your time and some of the top teams are off the board. The special teams may not be top-notch, but there are playmakers that can get you sack and turnover points on the defense if they apply in your league.


Cardinals Defense
With everyone talking about the Cardinals new coaching staff and a possible big shift to a run-first scheme on offense, don’t forget AZ is also changing up the defense. Out is the 4-3 and in comes a fresh 3-4. Look for more zone blitzing and look for IDP studs Bertrand Berry and Chike Okeafor to now play more like outside linebackers.


Raiders Defense
Word out of Oakland is Michael Huff is going to be roaming the field more this season and FS Stuart Schweigert will be more focused on covering routes. This could make Huff a much more valuable IDP player.


Browns Defense
If you want an IDP bargain, give Safety Sean Jones a look. He had a solid year last season and yet he continues to fly under the radar. Also out of Cleveland, NT Shaun Smith could be an up and comer as a very deep sleeper given the Browns play with a three-man front and Ted Washington isn’t getting any younger. On the flip side, DE Orpheus Roye is now clearly on the down side of his long NFL career. If you are holding out hope Roye will become an IDP stud again, its time to give it up.


Lions Defense
While some look back at Ernie Sims’ rookie year and think disappointment, keep in mind he was fairly active as a tackler and that might just spell big points in IDP leagues this year. Also keep in mind free agent DL Dewayne White could take some pressure off of Sims.