We'll just say it -- the top D/ST in our early 2019 fantasy defense rankings probably won't finish next season as the No. 1 defense. It just doesn't happen very often (see Jaguars, Jacksonville from this past season). So, even though the Bears will almost certainly be the first D/ST drafted in many, if not most, fantasy football drafts next fall, there's a good chance at least one or two units will be better. If anything, this is a reminder that you don't need to overdraft a defense, as busts are frequent and "mid-tier" sleepers are more than capable of providing big points.
One of the toughest things to predict from year to year is takeaways, particularly fumble recoveries. D/ST touchdowns are even more difficult to rely on, which is why you see so much volatility in the rankings from year to year. The best defenses can certainly cause (and recover) a lot of fumbles and score at least a few touchdowns in consecutive seasons, but it's always good to look for outliers (Texans, Rams, Chiefs would qualify this year). On the flip side, defenses with solid sack/takeaway totals that didn't score much or recover a lot of fumbles are prime sleepers who could rise the following season with a little more luck (Eagles, Chargers, Steelers).
EARLY 2019 FANTASY RANKINGS:
Quarterback | Running back | Wide receiver | Tight end | Kicker
Of course, few things can boost a defense more than a returning/new stud player. We saw it this year with Khalil Mack arriving in Chicago and J.J. Watt returning in Houston, and we'll likely see it next year with Joey Bosa hopefully returning healthy for the Chargers and wherever someone like Earl Thomas signs. There will also be some impact rookies who could change the face of whatever defense they wind up on.
The bottom line is there are still a lot of variables that will ultimately shape these rankings ahead of 2019 drafts, so take these with a grain of salt and get ready for more D/ST frustration next season.
Early 2019 Fantasy Football Rankings: D/STs
These rankings are for standard leagues
| 1 | Chicago Bears |
| 2 | Los Angeles Chargers |
| 3 | Baltimore Ravens |
| 4 | Houston Texans |
| 5 | Minnesota Vikings |
| 6 | Philadelphia Eagles |
| 7 | Los Angeles Rams |
| 8 | Jacksonville Jaguars |
| 9 | Denver Broncos |
| 10 | New England Patriots |
| 11 | Pittsburgh Steelers |
| 12 | New Orleans Saints |
| 13 | Seattle Seahawks |
| 14 | Kansas City Chiefs |
| 15 | Washington Redskins |
| 16 | Cleveland Browns |
| 17 | Miami Dolphins |
| 18 | Dallas Cowboys |
| 19 | Buffalo Bills |
| 20 | Indianapolis Colts |