The last of my tier lists is finally here, and we couldn’t finish off the IDP without talking about some of the biggest stars out there. Safeties generally are more important than most cornerbacks since they average more tackles and benefit from teams that run blitzing schemes from that position. If your league credits passes defended, then that will boost the cornerbacks a tad, depending on the scoring structure. Also, if your league allows multiple IDP positions, then you’ll want a safety to go with your linebacker. Another thing you should account for is return yards, especially if your league credits them. Players like Travis Hunter are ready to break the slates whether it be on offense or special teams. That’s what makes IDP even better, and it gives you an extra layer to your defensive schemes. Let’s get ready for another tip-drill because with Dr. Roto, we’re taking it to the house so you can win a championship. Have a great day, everyone, and may the tackles be with you.
Tier 1: The Painbringers
The defensive back position can be hard to figure out, but when it comes to these Painbringers, you’ll never worry. The players mentioned for this tier are the best of the best. When paired with a stud linebacker, you make the perfect IDP combination that can help you win a championship. If you want tackles, turnovers and opportunities for touchdowns, these gridiron heroes can definitely help bring the pain to your opponents every single week.
DB Kyle Hamilton, Baltimore Ravens
DB Jessie Bates III, Atlanta Falcons
DB Nick Cross, Indianapolis Colts: Not only did I highlight Nick Cross last year, who knew he would have that bear of a season. Oh yeah, me, and that’s why this year will be even better.
DB Brian Branch, Detroit Lions: I simply love how Brian Branch plays, and from his very first pick-six, he’s risen in everyone else’s boards. However, even the most seasoned fantasy vets can be blind when it comes to the talent Branch brings to the Lions’ defense.
DB Budda Baker, Arizona Cardinals
Tier 2: The Next Level
If you’re waiting in your draft to take a defensive player with your later picks, then these players are right up your alley. These players are also well-known and can rival the big dogs in scoring for any type of league you’re in this year. Being on the Next Level doesn’t mean they’re second-rate. These playmakers have the same ability as anyone on the Painbringer level, plus you’ll get them at a fraction of the cost. Draft them with confidence and you’ll have a team that’s poised to win now.
DB Jeremy Chinn, Las Vegas Raiders: Jeremy Chinn was an amazing addition for the Raiders, who sorely needed a day like him. Chinn can immediately, if not surpass, his production from last year in Sin City itself.
DB Kerby Joseph, Detroit Lions
DB Jaylon Jones, Indianapolis Colts
DB Deshon Elliott, Pittsburgh Steelers: I wanted to pick the player below to highlight, but seeing the Steelers’ defense get stronger only makes me love this ball-hawk even more. Draft him late and thank me later.
DB Kevin Byard, Chicago Bears
Tier 3: The Latebusters
When it starts getting to the last rounds of your drafts, most of the more popular players will have been taken. That does mean you can’t swoop in like a ninja and steal one of these Latebusters, as if it’s nobody’s business. Every one of these players is a ball hawk, just like the previous tiers, and will help you to be competitive in your leagues. If you decide to pick your IDP players late and go for your handcuffs, then this is the tier for you. Expect great numbers from these players while you leave everyone watching from the outside of your league’s playoffs.
DB Kamren Curl, Los Angeles Rams
DB Keisean Nixon, Green Bay Packers: With the departure of J’aire Alexander, Keisean Nixon had a clear path to a starting cornerback role on this team. However, I would still like to see him returning kicks, which makes him a valuable asset in leagues that credit return yards.
DB Damar Hamlin, Buffalo Bills: Down the stretch for the Bills, Damar Hamlin showed why he has heart by making play after play before moving in the playoffs. I feel a lot of that will translate to this year on Hamlin’s quest to show he’s a true warrior.
DB Tyler Nubin, New York Giants
DB Kenny Moore II, Indianapolis Colts
