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Introduction
As we look forward to the 2023 NFL season, fans of the AFC South can expect some exciting play from the safeties in the division. These players not only help to anchor the defense but are also critical in providing support for the cornerbacks and linebackers. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at some of the top safeties in the AFC South and what makes them stand out on the field.
Jacksonville Jaguars
Andre Cisco
The Jaguars drafted Andre Cisco in the third round of the 2022 NFL Draft, and he quickly made an impact on the team. He finished the season with three interceptions and eight passes defended, showing off his ball-hawking skills. Cisco has great instincts and reads the quarterback well, making him a formidable force in the secondary.
Roy Robertson-Harris
While not a traditional safety, Robertson-Harris is a versatile defender who can play multiple positions. He’s listed as a defensive end, but he often lines up as an edge rusher or drops back into coverage. Robertson-Harris had a strong 2022 season, with 6.5 sacks and 13 quarterback hits. His size and speed make him a matchup nightmare for opposing offenses.
Houston Texans
Justin Reid
Justin Reid is a key player on the Texans defense, and he’s been a consistent performer since he was drafted in 2018. In 2022, he had 2 interceptions and 7 passes defended, but his impact goes beyond the stat sheet. Reid is a great communicator on the field and helps to keep the defense organized. He’s also a sure tackler and can play in the box or drop back into coverage.
Deshaun Davis
Davis is a bit of a wildcard, as he only played in 6 games in 2022 due to injury. However, when he was on the field, he showed off his potential with 1 interception and 2 passes defended. Davis has great size and speed, and he’s not afraid to come up in run support. If he can stay healthy in 2023, he could be a breakout player for the Texans.
Indianapolis Colts
Khari Willis
Willis is a hard-hitting safety who can play in the box or drop back in coverage. He had a breakout season in 2022, with 3 interceptions and 7 passes defended. Willis also had 87 tackles and 2 forced fumbles, showing off his versatility as a defender. He’s a reliable tackler and can often be found around the ball.
Julian Blackmon
Blackmon is another young safety who made an impact for the Colts in 2022. He had 2 interceptions and 6 passes defended, but his real value comes from his ability to play multiple positions. Blackmon can line up as a safety, cornerback, or nickelback, giving the Colts flexibility on defense. His speed and coverage skills make him a valuable asset in the secondary.
Tennessee Titans
Kenny Vaccaro
Vaccaro is a veteran safety who has been a consistent performer for the Titans since he signed with the team in 2019. He had 2 interceptions and 6 passes defended in 2022, and he’s known for his hard hits and physical play. Vaccaro is also a strong leader on the field, and he helps to keep the defense organized.
Amani Hooker
Hooker is a young safety who has shown a lot of promise in his first two seasons with the Titans. In 2022, he had 3 interceptions and 7 passes defended, and he’s known for his ball skills and coverage ability. Hooker is also a willing tackler and can play in the box or drop back into coverage. He’s a player to watch in 2023 as he continues to develop his skills.
Conclusion
The AFC South has some talented safeties who will be making an impact in the 2023 NFL season. From ball-hawking rookies to veteran leaders, these players are critical to their team’s success on defense. Keep an eye on these players as they make their mark on the field in the coming season.
