2012 NFL Free Agents: Analyzing the Best Defensive Replacement Signings

In order for defenses to keep pace with today's explosive offenses, teams need to find new faces to help field a complete unit.

The Dallas Cowboys' signing of Brandon Carr is a prime example, as Big D's pass defense cost it a playoff berth in 2011. Carr proved dominant for the Kansas City Chiefs (even with Eric Berry out), and was a hot-commodity during free agency.

Furthermore, there were other defensive free agents that found new homes this offseason. So, let's analyze the best defensive replacement signings for the 2012 season.

David Hawthorne: LB, Saints

This was a tossup between David Hawthorne and Curtis Lofton, as New Orleans brought in both linebackers to improve their intermediate pass defense and help stop the run. Plus, with Jonathan Vilma gone for the year, the Saints now have two studs to count on for the season.

Both are expected to play, but Hawthorne played in a much better running division and defended the pass arguably better than Lofton. In the past three years, Hawthorne has recorded 338 tackles, defended 15 passes, had seven interceptions and forced five fumbles.

The man had to shutdown solid running backs like Frank Gore and Steven Jackson to prevent Seattle from being vulnerable to play-action, and the defense fed off his production. Atlanta, on the other hand, was weak against the pass and didn't defend the run as much in the NFC South.

Here, Hawthorne is the more complete linebacker because he can defend both the run and pass. However, Lofton's experience in pass coverage bodes well for New Orleans because he can jam tight ends and slot receivers. So, the two should complement each other nicely while improving Big Easy's defense. 

Ryan McBean: DT/DE, Ravens

With veteran Cory Redding in Indianapolis, the Baltimore Ravens needed to find a sound replacement along the defensive line. Denver's Ryan McBean was the perfect addition as he collected four sacks and 33 tackles in 2011.

The Ravens clearly needed to get younger in the front seven as well, and McBean is only 28 years old. Coming off his best season as a pro, McBean will thrive in one of the NFL's best defenses.

Lining up with Terrence Cody and Haloti Ngata in the trenches, McBean will see a lot of one-on-one action, which will allow him to make plays in the backfield. Linebackers Ray Lewis and Jameel McCali also draw attention, as pulling guards will go upfield to extend running lanes.

In short, being part of a better defense in Baltimore (although the Broncos are solid as well) gives McBean more opportunities for sacks and tackles for loss. The Ravens' pass defense will also do a good enough job of blanketing receivers, giving McBean more time to apply pressure to the quarterback.

Brandon Carr: CB, Cowboys

Turning 34 years old in the fall, Terence Newman was the weakest link in the Cowboys' secondary. So, it wasn't surprising to see Dallas bring in Brandon Carr.

During his time with Kansas City, Carr performed at a high level but went overlooked as a complete player. The past three seasons were impressive, as Carr defended 59 passes, made 164 tackles and recorded six interceptions during that span.

Carr was complemented well by Eric Berry and Brandon Flowers from 2008-2010, but he had a career year in 2011 with Berry on the sidelines. Dallas made a big move by getting Carr, as the NFC East is loaded with great passing offenses and the Cowboys' pass defense has been underwhelming.

Even better is that Carr remains on a defense that possesses a dominant pass rush. Kansas City provided that with players like Tamba Hali, while Big D one-ups the Chiefs with DeMarcus Ware. Pressure on the quarterback will help Carr in coverage and provide more opportunities for turnovers.

When you include how well the Cowboys drafted, they could be contenders in 2012.

Tracy Porter: CB, Broncos

Less than a month after the Broncos brought Tracy Porter aboard, veteran corner Andre Goodman was released. It was somewhat surprising as Goodman had a strong 2011 season despite being 33 years old. However, Porter will be just 26 before this year begins.

It was an unwarranted, but smart move by Denver. Ironically, Porter was the man who picked off Peyton Manning in Super Bowl XLIV.

The Broncos are clearly in a transition period on defense, and the addition of Porter helps solve another piece to their puzzle.

The front seven presents great players in Von Miller, Elvis Dumervil, Wesley Woodyard and D.J. Williams. So, Porter should reap the benefits off a strong pass rush and improved run defense while in the secondary.

A reliable playmaker, Porter forced two fumbles and defended nine passes last season. His presence on the outside will force opponents to run the ball more, allowing the Broncos to be more aggressive up front.

In turn, more turnovers will be created; providing Peyton Manning with additional possessions.

John Rozum on Twitter.