NFL Tackling Statistics for the 2024 Season: A Comprehensive Overview
This past season, all 32 NFL teams faced their tackling challenges as they aimed to secure victories on the field. With the introduction of Next Gen Stats and Amazon Web Services’ new AI model, Tackle Probability, teams received deeper insights into defensive performance, allowing for a more detailed analysis of tackles made and missed.
The Kansas City Chiefs topped the league in tackling efficiency with an impressive score of 89.3%, bolstered by a stellar run in the playoffs where they reached 90.9%. Notably, linebacker Leo Chenal excelled, recording more forced fumbles than missed tackles during the regular season.
The Baltimore Ravens followed closely behind, finishing with 89.2% efficiency. They also showcased impressive discipline with only 544 yards lost from missed tackles, illustrating their strong tackling philosophy under new coordinator Zach Orr. Roquan Smith and Kyle Hamilton were vital for the Ravens, both surpassing 100 tackles this season.
Meanwhile, the Denver Broncos achieved a milestone by becoming the only team to convert every tackle opportunity in a single game against the Chiefs in Week 18. With a tackle efficiency rate of 88.5% for the season, the Broncos demonstrated a significant improvement from last season.
The Pittsburgh Steelers closely competed with the Chiefs, finishing the season with an 89.1% efficiency and an impressive 18 forced fumbles. DeShon Elliott and Minkah Fitzpatrick formed a formidable safety duo, showcasing top-notch tackling skills throughout their season.
The Detroit Lions also made headlines, showcasing a cohesive defensive unit that managed to minimize missed tackles despite facing injuries. Key players like Kerby Joseph and Brian Branch greatly contributed to this effort.
Tackling efficiency was notably a mixed bag across the league. The New England Patriots sustained solid tackling performance under head coach Jerod Mayo, landing in the 12th position for efficiency. In contrast, the Cleveland Browns remained at the bottom of the tackling efficiency table, struggling with an 83.7% mark.
Overall, the season revealed much about each team’s defensive capabilities and where improvements are necessary. With the upcoming offseason, teams will look to address their tackling weaknesses as they prepare for the challenges of the next season.
As the dust settles on the 2024 season, teams that can refine their tackling techniques will likely find themselves in better positions next season. The spotlight will be on how teams like the Cleveland Browns can turn their fortunes around in the upcoming year.
