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NFL defensive player usage trends shift heading into the 2026 season

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 2, 2026, 9:22 PM

Last updated Sep 2, 2026

NFL defensive player usage trends shift heading into the 2026 season

Summary

The number of every-down linebackers in the NFL continues to decline as defensive schemes rely more heavily on nickel and dime personnel. During the 2025 season, only 22 linebackers played at least 80 percent of their team's defensive snaps, down from 34 in 2024. Elite coverage linebackers also remained scarce, with only five players earning a PFF coverage grade of 70.0 or higher. Meanwhile, players responsible for defensive communication, often referred to as the green-dot role, remained consistent performers. Managers drafting for the upcoming season are advised to prioritize snap volume and tackle conversion rates over raw point totals. These metrics offer a more accurate assessment of individual player workload as teams move away from traditional base defensive packages.

Source Links

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By the Numbers

•Only 22 linebackers played at least 80 percent of defensive snaps in 2025.
•Zack Baun, Derwin James, Roquan Smith, Jack Campbell, and Foyesade Oluokun maintained high coverage grades.
•Jordyn Brooks, Jack Campbell, Roquan Smith, Ernest Jones, and Zack Baun held primary green-dot responsibilities.
•Devin White, Dee Winters, Patrick Queen, Quay Walker, and Jordyn Brooks faced the most coverage targets.

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9:22 PMYahoo Sports — Real IDP Hunter's IDP Primer For The 2026 Season

What they're saying

"
Steve Hungarter summarizes some of the more important nuggets for IDP managers to consider for the 2026 as they head into the final week of drafts.
— Yahoo Sports

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