Years ago, Dick LeBeau would often say that a safety must be physically able to function in many different roles. They must be a combination of fast enough, tough enough and smart enough to match up in pass coverage while at the same time work with linebackers in run defense, even in short-yardage and goal-line plays. They must also function with defensive linemen to execute an effective pass-rush.
With that in mind, here are the league’s best NFL Safeties of 2019.
JUSTIN SIMMONS: THE COVERAGE SAFETY
MARCUS WILLIAMS: THE TRUE CENTER FIELDER
JAMAL ADAMS: THE GAME’S BEST BLITZING SAFETY
HARRISON SMITH: MASTER OF DISGUISE & COVERAGE
MINKAH FITZPATRICK: PATTERN READ AND INSTINCTS