As the 2023 XFL regular season comes to a close, we take a look at the top defensive players who made a significant impact on the field. In this article, we will breakdown the top performers in tackles, sacks, forced fumbles, and interceptions.
Tackles
Brahmas Jordan Williams (LB) tops the chart in tackles this season with a total of 89 (38 solo, 51 assisted). Williams displayed impressive speed and agility, making him a formidable force on the field. Close behind, Roughnecks Tavante Beckett (LB) made 63 tackles (34 solo, 29 assisted), showcasing his consistency and versatility as a linebacker. Vipers C.J. Avery (LB) and Roughnecks Emmanuel Ellerbee (LB) also had a strong showing, making 62 tackles each.
Sacks
When it comes to bringing down the quarterback, Roughnecks Trent Harris (LB) led the league with 9.5 sacks, followed by Vipers Pita Taumoepenu (LB) with 7.5 sacks. Both players demonstrated exceptional pass-rushing skills, consistently putting pressure on the opposing team’s offensive line. Other notable performers in this category include Brahmas Delontae Scott (LB) with 7.5 sacks and Sea Dragons Tuzar Skipper (LB) with 6.0 sacks.
Forced Fumbles
Vipers Pita Taumoepenu (LB) proved to be a menace for the opposing teams, forcing 4 fumbles throughout the season. Taumoepenus’ ability to strip the ball away from ball carriers has been a game-changer for his team on multiple occasions. Roughnecks John Daka (LB), Sea Dragons Tuzar Skipper (LB), Battlehawks Travis Feeney (LB) and Davin Bellamy (DL) each forced 3 fumbles, showcasing their skills at disrupting the opponent’s offensive game plan.
Interceptions
In the interceptions category, Roughnecks Ajene Harris (DB) lead the league with 5 interceptions. Renegades Joe Powel (DB) and Defenders Michael Joseph (DB) both managed to snag 4 interceptions each. Harris, Powel and Joseph’s keen sense of anticipation and ability to read the quarterback’s intentions allowed them to make crucial plays for their respective teams. Several players, including Sea Dragons Qwynnterrio Cole (DB), Roughnecks Sean Davis (DB), and Battlehawks Branon Sebastian (DB), tied for third place with 3 interceptions each.
In conclusion, the 2023 XFL regular season was filled with outstanding defensive performances. Players like Jordan Williams, Travis Feeney, Pita Taumoepenu, and Ajene Harris stepped up and made a significant impact on their teams’ success. As we head into the playoffs, these athletes will undoubtedly continue to showcase their skills and contribute to their teams’ pursuit of the championship.
