9. Jayon Brown, Tennessee Titans
As we discussed when Kevin Byard made the list of the top safeties in the game, the Tennessee Titans’ offense might have grabbed the headlines, given Derrick Henry’s numbers and the emergence of Ryan Tannehill, but do not forget their defense. Another core component of this group is Jayon Brown, the linebacker out of UCLA. Picked in the fifth round by the Titans in 2017, Brown has been a part of their defense since his rookie season, when he logged 527 defensive snaps.
Last season Brown might even have taken a slight step back, as he gave up some more passing plays than he did in 2018 and his pressure numbers were down from the previous season, but he is still as solid as they come at the position. What stands out about Brown when watching him on film is his awareness, even when put in unfamilar positions. Watch this play against the Buffalo Bills:
2nd & 10: Despite a 10 yard cushion, Jayon Brown closes the gap & makes the tackle on Yeldon for no gain pic.twitter.com/IYPlhHHAVo
— Stathi Papadopoulos (@WistfulPapadoc) May 11, 2020
The Titans are in man coverage, and when running back T.J. Yeldon flexes outside to the boundary Brown follows him. Even with a huge cushion, Brown recognizes the route concept and explodes downhill, stopping this for no gain.
Then, there are plays like this:
Ridiculous play by Jayon Brown pic.twitter.com/6vDtaJCFVJ
— Ben Porter (@Ben13Porter) December 8, 2019
Troy Polamalu would be proud.