The NFL season is almost underway.
As such, it’s time to fire bold takes and strong opinions.
With that in mind, former linebacker Manti Te’o named the five defensive players who deserve more credit than they get, via NFL Network.
Manti Te'o thinks that these defensive players should get some more love 👀 pic.twitter.com/TUYGVV9egO
— NFL Network (@nflnetwork) August 7, 2025
He has Denver Broncos lineman Zach Allen at the top of the list, which isn’t much of a surprise, given his stout presence against the run.
Then, he has Minnesota Vikings linebacker Jonathan Greenard, someone who often goes overlooked because of how stacked that defense is under coordinator Brian Flores.
Detroit Lions linebacker Jack Campbell will be crucial in making sure his unit doesn’t regress now that coordinator Aaron Glenn left to become head coach of the New York Jets.
Te’o also chose Chicago Bears cornerback Kyler Gordon, who may not get as much credit as teammate Jaylon Johnson yet deserves it.
Another player from Sean Payton’s team, Broncos safety Talanoa Hufanga, got the final spot.
This is the most pass-happy era in NFL history.
The rules are tailor-made to suit the offense, and it’s become evident that the league wants high-flying matchups.
Then again, as much as the game has changed, the adage is still true: Offense wins games, but defense wins championships.
NEXT: Baker Mayfield Sends Warning About Buccaneers Defense