The 10 Best NFL Defenses Over the Last Decade

10. 2011 New York Jets

The 2011 Jets' traditional stats don’t jump off the page as an elite defense, but an important thing to note here is that Adjusted Defensive NEP accounts for strength of schedule. The Jets held their opponents to an average of 4.8 yards per play, despite having to play four games against teams that competed in the Conference Championship game. They had to play the Super Bowl Champion New England Patriots twice, as well as the NFC Champion New York Giants and the AFC Runner-up Baltimore once each.

Antonio Cromartie, David Harris, and Darrelle Revis each tallied 4 interceptions to lead a pass defense that allowed only two 300 yard passers, holding nine opponents to fewer than 200 passing yards.

Those interceptions contributed to New York racking up three or more turnovers in seven games, which certainly helps their overall NEP. The Jets also forced their opponents to punt 5.7 times per game – the fifth best mark in the NFL that season.

Restricted by an offense whose -62.27 Adjusted NEP ranked 25th in the league that season, the powerhouse defense led the Jets to an 8-8 record and second place in the AFC East.