These are the top 16 defensive players in the NFL for 2026 feat. Diante Lee

Nate Tice is joined by Diante Lee to draft the top 16 defensive players in the NFL heading into the 2026 season. The duo start with the six top defenders, including a surprise first overall pick in Will Anderson Jr, plus Myles Garrett, Micah Parsons, Patrick Surtain II, Chris Jones and Jeffery Simmons.

Further down the list, Nate & Diante shout out a few more defensive tackles worthy of recognition and break down why Fred Warner and Kyle Hamilton make their top-12 despite playing at lower-value positions.

The duo wrap things up with Quinyon Mitchell barely making the list and going back to back with another Philadelphia Eagles corner in Cooper DeJean, wondering whether Maxx Crosby can avoid dropping off this season and much more.

(6:00) – Top defensive players: top 6

(37:20) – Top defensive players: -12

(1:21:25) – Top defensive players: -16

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