The NFC West has a talented group of safeties in 2019. The Arizona Cardinals added D.J. Swearinger and the L.A. Rams added Eric Weddle. The San Francisco have a number of players who are in the mix for the starting jobs. In all, there are eight starting jobs.
Who are the top five in the division?
No. 5: Budda Baker, Cardinals
Baker has been solid in the roles he has played, in the box and in the slot. He has been a volume tackler and can blitz and play the run. He will be playing more in deep coverage this year, which he prefers. However, his one flaw is catching the ball and he has not yet had an interception in his career. He is on the verge of becoming a household name.
No. 4: Bradley McDougald, Seahawks
With no Earl Thomas or Kam Chancellor in the back end, the Seahawks are very pleased with McDougald. He makes plays at the line scrimmage and in coverage. He had three picks and three forced fumbles, as well as four tackles for loss.
No. 3: D.J. Swearinger, Cardinals
Swearinger has bounced around the league and has not ever been a Pro Bowler, but he is right there at that level, perhaps a little below. He plays well against the run and makes plays in the passing game, having intercepted 11 passes in the last three season. He is a ferocious hitter and a leader.
No. 2: Eric Weddle, Rams
If this is a career rating, Weddle is clearly the best in the division. However, his numbers declined in 2018, as he had no interceptions, broke up fewer passes than any year in his career and did not force a fumble. He is still a great player and his presence will improve the Rams defense, but he isn’t the best right now.
No. 1: John Johnson, Rams
Johnson was one of the biggest surprises of the division. In his second season, he had 118 tackles, four interceptions and broke up 11 passes. he was not a Pro Bowler but, combined with Weddle in 2019, he should get the attention he warrants for his play.
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