The Indianapolis Colts’ bye week has finally arrived. So, now 13 games into their 2024 season, which defenders have received the highest marks from Pro Football Focus?
However, before we dive in, I do believe it’s important to note that PFF’s grading system is not the be-all-end-all in player evaluation. Although it’s very helpful in quantifying a player’s performance, it is one metric out of many that are out there and should be treated as such.
Having said that, if a player performs well, their PFF grade reflects that.
Here is a look at PFF’s grading system to provide some context behind the numbers:
90.0+: Elite
80-89.9: High quality
70-79.9: Good
60-69.9: Above average
50-59.9: Average
40-49.9: Below average
39.9 or less: Poor
To see which players on offense have received the highest PFF grades, click here.
DT DeForest Buckner
PFF grade: 82.6
Buckner continues to do it all for this Colts defense, impacting both the run and passing games at a high level. He’s generated six sacks and 26 pressures, ranking second among all defensive tackles in pass-rush win rate, as well as sixth in run-stop rate. With the attention he draws, Buckner’s presence helps open up opportunities for others around him.
CB Kenny Moore
PFF grade: 80.3
Moore has totaled 58 tackles this season, a number of which have come around the line of scrimmage, ranking second among all cornerbacks in run-stops. In coverage, he’s limited opposing pass-catchers, allowing only 7.9 yards per catch with three pass breakups and one interception.
DE Laiatu Latu
PFF grade: 73.2
As the season has progressed so has Latu as he becomes more disruptive seemingly each week. He’s totaled 33 pressures and four sacks on the year, with 13 of those pressures and two of those sacks coming in the last four games. He’s also become a more steady run defender as well. Out of all defensive ends, Latu ranks 30th in pass rush win rate.
Of note, Segun Olubi has a PFF grade of 86.4 and Jaylon Carlies is at 75.0, but both were left off due to the amount of defensive snaps played this season.
Honorable Mentions
DT Grover Stewart: 71.3
CB Sam Womack: 71.1
CB Jaylon Jones: 68.2