The 10 Best NFL Defenses Over the Last Decade

4. 2009 New York Jets

Among all NFL defenses of the past 10 seasons, the 2009 New York Jets gave up the second fewest yards per game (252.3) and held their opponents to the eighth-fewest points per game (14.8). They held two of their opponents scoreless, allowing over 17 points only five times all season. In four of their losses, the Jets’ offense failed to score over 14 points.

They had playmakers at every level of the defense. Shaun Ellis led the way on the defensive line with 6.5 sacks, while Calvin Pace added another eight sacks from his linebacker position. Next to him, David Harris racked up 127 tackles, good enough for ninth in the NFL. Darrelle Revis’ six interceptions were tied for fifth most in the NFL.

New York held their first two playoff opponents to 14 points each, before giving up 30 points to NFL MVP Peyton Manning and the Indianapolis Colts in their AFC Championship game loss.