The NFL Rush Defense Rankings has delivered thrills, surprises, and plenty of hard-hitting action. One area that continues to grab attention is the rush defense—those gritty units tasked with shutting down the ground game. With the regular season now in the books as of April 1, 2025, teams have shown their true colors, and the rankings tell a fascinating story. From dominant front lines to struggling squads, let’s dive into the latest NFL rush defense rankings for 2024 and explore what makes these teams tick.

Why Rush Defense Matters in Today’s NFL

Football fans know the old saying: “Defense wins championships.” While passing attacks often steal the spotlight, stopping the run remains a cornerstone of any elite defense. A strong rush defense forces opponents into predictable passing situations, giving edge rushers and secondary players a chance to shine. In 2024, teams that excel at clogging running lanes have set themselves apart, while those that falter face an uphill battle. So, what do the numbers say about this season’s top performers?

The rush defense rankings reflect a team’s ability to limit yards on the ground, measured by average rushing yards allowed per game. This stat paints a clear picture of defensive strength—or weakness. With data fresh from the 2024 regular season, we’ll break down the leaders, the surprises, and the disappointments. Ready to see who’s ruling the trenches? Let’s get started.

Top 5 Rush Defense Teams in 2024

1. Philadelphia Eagles: The Run-Stopping Juggernaut

The Philadelphia Eagles sit atop the rush defense rankings, and it’s no shock to anyone watching this season. They’ve allowed a stingy 92.3 rushing yards per game, showcasing a front seven that refuses to budge. Jalen Carter and Josh Sweat lead a defensive line that swarms ball carriers, while linebackers like Nakobe Dean clean up anything that slips through. Their dominance stems from a mix of talent and scheme, with defensive coordinator Vic Fangio dialing up aggressive looks to stifle opponents.

What’s their secret? The Eagles prioritize gap discipline and quick penetration, rarely letting runners find daylight. They faced tough tests against mobile quarterbacks and bruising backs like Saquon Barkley, yet they held firm. Even in high-stakes games, Philadelphia’s defense bends but doesn’t break. This unit’s consistency makes them a playoff threat—and a nightmare for any run-heavy offense.

2. Tennessee Titans: Gritty and Relentless

Next up, the Tennessee Titans claim the second spot, allowing just 96.8 rushing yards per game. This rugged defense thrives on physicality, with Jeffery Simmons anchoring the line and Harold Landry flying off the edge. The Titans’ ability to bottle up runners surprises no one familiar with head coach Brian Callahan’s tough-minded approach. They’ve turned games into slugfests, forcing opponents to abandon the ground game early.

Tennessee’s standout moment came against the Houston Texans, where they limited Dameon Pierce to under 50 yards despite his explosive potential. Their linebackers tackle with ferocity, and the secondary even chips in to stop outside runs. While their overall record might not scream elite, the Titans’ rush defense keeps them in every fight. Don’t sleep on this crew—they’re built for January football.

3. Denver Broncos: A Rising Force

The Denver Broncos round out the top three, surrendering 98.1 rushing yards per game. Under Sean Payton’s guidance, this defense has transformed into a unit that punishes runners at every turn. Zach Allen and Jonathon Cooper lead a front that collapses pockets and seals gaps, while Patrick Surtain II locks down the perimeter. Denver’s resurgence on this side of the ball has fans buzzing about a playoff push.

One game that defined their season? A showdown with the Kansas City Chiefs, where they held Patrick Mahomes’ scrambling and the Chiefs’ backs to a measly 73 yards. The Broncos mix speed and power, adjusting to different rushing styles with ease. Their depth shines through late in games, wearing down offenses that dare to test them. This group proves Denver’s defense is back—and better than ever.

4. Houston Texans: Stout in the South

The Houston Texans land at fourth, giving up 101.4 rushing yards per game. DeMeco Ryans has molded this defense into a disciplined, hard-nosed outfit that rarely cracks. Will Anderson Jr. and Danielle Hunter wreak havoc up front, while the linebacker corps tackles with precision. Houston’s ability to stop the run has fueled their AFC South title hopes all season long.

A highlight came against the Indianapolis Colts, where they stuffed Jonathan Taylor—an All-Pro talent—for just 62 yards on 20 carries. The Texans excel at reading plays and swarming to the ball, leaving little room for error. Their physical style wears opponents down, setting the stage for a fierce pass rush. Houston’s defense screams playoff contender, and the run stats back it up.

5. Green Bay Packers: Young and Hungry

Closing out the top five, the Green Bay Packers allow 104.7 rushing yards per game. This youthful defense, led by Rashan Gary and Quay Walker, brings energy and aggression to every snap. Defensive coordinator Jeff Hafley deserves credit for unleashing a unit that attacks downhill and finishes plays. The Packers’ rush defense has become a cornerstone of their NFC North campaign.

Their defining game? A matchup with the Detroit Lions, where they held Jahmyr Gibbs and David Montgomery to a combined 85 yards. Green Bay’s linebackers fly to the ball, and their defensive ends set the edge with authority. This group’s growth throughout 2024 signals big things ahead. They’re not just stopping runs—they’re building a legacy.

Surprises and Breakouts in 2024

Cleveland Browns: Defying Expectations

The Cleveland Browns sneak into the top 10, allowing 109.2 rushing yards per game. Despite a rollercoaster season, Myles Garrett and Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah keep this defense competitive. Injuries tested their depth, but they’ve responded with grit and tenacity. Cleveland’s ability to rally against the run surprises many, given their offensive struggles.

A key moment came against the Pittsburgh Steelers, where they limited Najee Harris to 47 yards on 18 carries. The Browns swarm as a unit, refusing to let runners break free. While their overall defense has holes, their rush-stopping prowess stands out. This breakout performance hints at untapped potential for 2025.

Los Angeles Chargers: Minter’s Magic

The Los Angeles Chargers, with 112.6 rushing yards allowed per game, emerge as another surprise. Defensive coordinator Jesse Minter works wonders with a roster that lacks star power beyond Khalil Mack. Joey Bosa and the linebacker group step up, turning heads with their consistency. The Chargers’ turnaround on defense raises eyebrows across the league.

They stunned the Baltimore Ravens, holding Derrick Henry to 79 yards—a feat few accomplish. Minter’s schemes confuse blockers, and his players execute with fire. This unit’s rise from mediocrity to respectability marks one of 2024’s best stories. Watch out—the Chargers are finding their stride.

Struggling Defenses: Who’s Getting Gashed?

Washington Commanders: A Run Defense Disaster

On the flip side, the Washington Commanders limp in near the bottom, allowing 141.8 rushing yards per game. Injuries and poor tackling plague this unit, despite Dan Quinn’s defensive pedigree. Daron Payne fights valiantly up front, but the secondary and linebackers fail to support him. Washington’s woes against the run derail their playoff dreams.

Their low point? A thrashing by the Philadelphia Eagles, where Saquon Barkley racked up 148 yards. The Commanders miss assignments and lose contain far too often. Fixing this mess tops their offseason to-do list. Until then, opponents will keep pounding the ground with glee.

Jacksonville Jaguars: Crumbling in the Trenches

The Jacksonville Jaguars fare even worse, surrendering 145.3 rushing yards per game. Josh Hines-Allen battles alone on a defense that collapses under pressure. Missed tackles and shaky fundamentals doom this group week after week. Jacksonville’s season unravels, and their rush defense takes much of the blame.

A brutal example: Jonathan Taylor torched them for 177 yards in Week 18. The Jaguars lack cohesion and toughness, letting runners dictate the game. New leadership must address this glaring weakness. For now, they’re a soft target in the AFC South.

FAQs About NFL Rush Defense Rankings 2024

Which team has the best rush defense in the NFL for 2024, and what makes them so effective?

The Philadelphia Eagles hold the top spot, allowing just 92.3 rushing yards per game. Their success comes from a fierce defensive line led by Jalen Carter and Josh Sweat, paired with Vic Fangio’s brilliant schemes. They maintain gap discipline and swarm to the ball, shutting down even the league’s best runners with ease.

How do the Tennessee Titans manage to rank so high despite a tough season?

Mohamed The Titans rank second, giving up 96.8 rushing yards per game, thanks to their physical, no-nonsense style. Jeffery Simmons and Harold Landry anchor a front that overwhelms blockers, while their linebackers tackle with fury. Brian Callahan’s gritty coaching keeps them in games, even when the offense sputters.

Why are the Washington Commanders struggling so badly against the run this year?

How The Commanders allow a whopping 141.8 rushing yards per game due to injuries and poor execution. Despite Daron Payne’s efforts, their linebackers and secondary miss tackles and lose contain. Dan Quinn’s system hasn’t clicked, leaving them vulnerable to big plays on the ground.

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