2025 NFL Defense Rankings: Best Pass and Rush Units Through Week 11

The updated 2025 NFL defense rankings through Week 11 reveal the most complete and consistent teams on the defensive side of the ball. The Houston Texans currently lead the league in total defense, while the Cleveland Browns own the top-ranked pass defense and the New England Patriots headline the rushing category. These metrics, based on team averages, show how each squad is performing ahead of Week 12.

Several familiar contenders remain near the top. Denver’s efficiency in key defensive situations continues to impress, while the Rams, Lions, Packers, and Seahawks all hold strong positions in multiple categories. As the playoff push begins, these defensive units could decide postseason seeding.

Complete NFL Defensive Rankings Breakdown

The Texans sit at No. 1 in total defense, allowing just 264.3 yards per game. The Browns and Broncos follow closely behind, each under 275 yards allowed. The Lions, Packers, and Chiefs also remain within striking distance, forming a competitive top tier. At the other end, the Bengals, Commanders, and Cowboys have struggled, allowing over 380 yards per game.

In pass defense, the Browns lead with 167.0 yards allowed per game, edging out the Bills and Texans. The Chargers and Broncos round out the top five. The bottom of the list includes the Steelers, Bengals, and Cowboys, who have given up big plays through the air throughout the first half of the season.

The Patriots’ 84.7 rushing yards allowed per game set the standard for run defense. The Jaguars, Broncos, Texans, and Colts complete the top five. These teams have effectively closed running lanes and forced opponents to rely on the pass. Conversely, the Giants and Bengals have struggled to stop the run, both giving up over 150 rushing yards per game.

In scoring defense, Houston once again leads with just 16.5 points allowed per game. The Rams and Broncos are not far behind, while the Chiefs and Patriots round out the top five. Cincinnati ranks last, surrendering over 33 points per contest.

Situationally, Denver dominates in both red-zone and third-down efficiency. The Broncos have allowed a touchdown on just 35.7% of red-zone trips and boast the league’s best third-down stop rate at 28.9%. These situational stats often correlate with consistent wins — and Denver’s defensive stability has kept them in close games all season long.

What These Rankings Mean Moving Forward

The teams with elite defensive balance — notably the Texans, Browns, and Broncos — are well-positioned to maintain momentum through the final stretch of the regular season. The Patriots’ dominance against the run could prove crucial in cold-weather matchups where rushing attacks typically thrive. Meanwhile, clubs like the Bengals and Giants must address defensive breakdowns quickly to avoid further slippage in December.

As the postseason picture sharpens, defensive execution in the red zone and on third down will be critical. Historically, top-five defenses in those areas tend to advance deepest in January. Houston’s overall balance, Denver’s situational strength, and Cleveland’s secondary performance stand out as sustainable assets.

In summary, the 2025 NFL defense rankings highlight a season defined by discipline and depth. The Texans, Browns, and Broncos headline a strong defensive class entering Week 12, while teams in the lower ranks face growing pressure to turn their seasons around.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: Who leads the NFL in total defense?

The Houston Texans lead the league, allowing just 264.3 total yards per game through Week 11.

Q2: Which team has the top pass defense?

The Cleveland Browns hold the top spot, giving up only 167 passing yards per game.

Q3: Who ranks first in rushing defense?

The New England Patriots are No. 1 against the run, allowing 84.7 rushing yards per contest.

Q4: Which team leads in scoring defense?

The Texans also lead this category, holding opponents to 16.5 points per game.

Q5: Which defense excels most on third down?

The Denver Broncos lead the league, allowing conversions on just 28.9% of third-down attempts.