It may be a little cheesy but the tenth spot is being kept open for the hopeful healthy return of Kansas City Chiefs safety Eric Berry from his battle with cancer.
Here's a Flea Flicker look at the Top-9 safeties in the league.
9. Eric Reid, San Francisco 49ers
Reid just has to put an end to his run of concussions. His health is the most important thing. If he can stay on the field he can be one of the best.
8. T.J. Ward, Denver Broncos
Ward's best season might have been his first season in 2010 with the Cleveland Browns. He brings a physical presence to the Broncos secondary.
7. Kam Chancellor, Seattle Seahawks
If Chancellor played ever game like he played against the Carolina Panthers in the playoffs last season he'd be at the top of this list. He was a beast that day. Big plays. Key plays.
6. Jairus Byrd, New Orleans Saints
Byrd's first season with the Saints was a wash due to injuries. When healthy he's one of the best.
5. Tashaun Gipson, Cleveland Browns
Gipson is ranked higher than this on many safety lists. If he keeps playing like he has the last two seasons he'll soon be higher on this list too. For now, #5 isn't too shabby.
4. Devin McCourty, New England Patriots
McCourty was drafted as a corner in 2010. The Patriots moved him to safety during the 2012 season. He's been terrific ever sense. The Patriots seemed to put a greater importance on retaining McCourty than Darrelle Revis this offseason. That says a lot about McCourty's importance to the Patriots defense.
3. Eric Weddle, San Diego Chargers
Weddle is one of the most versatile safeties in the game.
2. Harrison Smith, Minnesota Vikings
Most people outside of Minnesota don't know this yet but Harrison Smith is damn good.
1. Earl Thomas, Seattle Seahawks
With Ed Reed and Troy Polamalu retired Thomas is the best in the game. Like those two all-time greats, Thomas is all over the field.
Training camps start opening this weekend!
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