Dynamic duos are what separate the contenders from the pretenders in the NFL. These tandems of talent, whether playing on offense or defense, contribute to their team’s success and often define the team’s identity. As we look ahead to the 2023 season, we’ve compiled a list of the best duos on each NFL team that will make a significant impact on the field.
D.J. Humphries (OL) and Paris Johnson (OL) – Arizona Cardinals
The Arizona Cardinals boast a solid foundation on the left side of the offensive line with D.J. Humphries and rookie Paris Johnson. Humphries, who didn’t allow a sack last season and yielded just 13 pressures, is a force to be reckoned with. Paired with Johnson, who brings immense potential, they will protect quarterback Kyler Murray’s blind side and be bright spots on a rebuilding Cardinals team.
Bijan Robinson (RB) and Tyler Allgeier (RB) – Atlanta Falcons
The Atlanta Falcons had an impressive running game last season, ranking third in rush yards per game and second in rush-play percentage. Now, they add Bijan Robinson to their arsenal, a player expected to be a significant contributor. With Robinson’s remarkable stats from the previous season, rushing for 1,580 yards and 18 touchdowns, and Allgeier’s strong performance, averaging 4.9 yards per carry, this duo has the potential to become the best running back tandem in the league.
Roquan Smith (LB) and Patrick Queen (LB) – Baltimore Ravens
The Baltimore Ravens boast one of the league’s best linebacker duos in Roquan Smith and Patrick Queen. Although they only played nine games together, Smith and Queen made a significant impact. Smith’s impressive season included 169 tackles, 4.5 sacks, three interceptions, and six passes defended. Queen, on the other hand, notched a career-high in tackles, sacks, interceptions, and passes defensed. If the Ravens make a deep playoff run in 2023, Smith and Queen will be a massive reason why.
Josh Allen (QB) and Stefon Diggs (WR) – Buffalo Bills
The Buffalo Bills’ success story revolves around the formidable connection between quarterback Josh Allen and wide receiver Stefon Diggs. Diggs, who solidified himself as a top-five receiver in the game, has been a reliable target for Allen. Allen’s impressive record-breaking performance, throwing for 35-plus touchdowns and rushing for six-plus touchdowns in each of the past three seasons, solidifies their status as one of the league’s best duos. With Allen and Diggs leading the way, the Bills remain Super Bowl contenders.
Jaycee Horn (CB) and Jeremy Chinn (S) – Carolina Panthers
While the Carolina Panthers are rebuilding their offense, their defense boasts playmakers like Jaycee Horn and Jeremy Chinn. Horn, with his exceptional coverage skills, allowed just a 35.8 passer rating and three interceptions last season. Chinn, despite playing just 11 games, had 70 tackles and displayed solid performance against opposing quarterbacks. With Horn and Chinn as linchpins in the secondary, the Panthers’ defense is poised.
Tremaine Edmunds (LB) and T.J. Edwards (LB) – Chicago Bears
The Chicago Bears have reinforced their defense with two free-agent signings at linebacker, creating a dynamic duo that is set to transform their fortunes. Tremaine Edmunds, with an impressive streak of five seasons recording 100 tackles, possesses a remarkable instinct for locating the football. Meanwhile, T.J. Edwards ranked among the top players in tackles last season, showcasing his exceptional ability to defend both the run and pass. With these two impact players joining forces, the Bears are poised to rise from the bottom of defensive rankings and create a formidable force on the field.
Joe Burrow (QB) and Ja’Marr Chase (WR) – Cincinnati Bengals
The Cincinnati Bengals boast one of the most explosive duos in the league with quarterback Joe Burrow and wide receiver Ja’Marr Chase. Burrow’s remarkable statistics over the last two seasons, including high completion rates, yards per attempt, and passing touchdowns, solidify his position as one of the premier quarterbacks in the NFL. Accompanying him is Ja’Marr Chase, who has emerged as Burrow’s primary target, racking up impressive receiving yards and touchdowns despite missing a few games. Together, they have fueled the Bengals’ ascent, making two AFC Championship game appearances in as many years. As they continue to develop their chemistry, Burrow and Chase promise to electrify fans with their awe-inspiring performances.
Joel Bitonio (OL) and Wyatt Teller (OL) – Cleveland Browns
Guard tandem Joel Bitonio and Wyatt Teller form an impenetrable wall on the Cleveland Browns’ offensive line. Bitonio, a two-time First Team All-Pro selection, has demonstrated his exceptional pass-blocking skills, allowing minimal sacks and pressures in 2022. Teller, although not an All-Pro last season, possesses the ability to neutralize opposing pass rushers effectively. Together, these two interior linemen provide unmatched protection for the Browns’ quarterbacks, enabling their offensive unit to flourish. With their exceptional talent and experience, Bitonio and Teller serve as the backbone of the Cleveland offensive line.
Micah Parsons (LB) and Trevon Diggs (CB) – Dallas Cowboys
The Dallas Cowboys boast two defensive stalwarts in Micah Parsons and Trevon Diggs, who have been instrumental in the team’s success. Parsons, known for his exceptional pass-rushing abilities, led the league in quarterback pressures last season and is already carving out a reputation as one of the game’s premier pass rushers. Diggs, on the other hand, has emerged as a ball hawk in the secondary, consistently making impactful interceptions and displaying outstanding coverage skills. With these two rising stars anchoring the defense, the Cowboys have found a winning formula that has propelled them to the top echelons of defensive rankings.
Patrick Surtain Jr. (CB) and Justin Simmons (S) – Denver Broncos
In the Mile High City, the Denver Broncos boast a defensive duo that strikes fear into the hearts of opposing quarterbacks. Patrick Surtain Jr., a rising star at cornerback, has quickly established himself as one of the game’s best. With a staggering 59.7 passer rating allowed in his first two seasons, Surtain is a nightmare to target. His exceptional coverage skills, coupled with six interceptions and 24 passes defensed, earned him First-Team All-Pro honors in just his second year.
Partnering with Surtain is the formidable safety Justin Simmons, a mainstay in the Broncos’ secondary. With three Second Team All-Pro selections in the last four years, Simmons is a force to be reckoned with. Last season alone, he tied for the league lead with six interceptions and forced three fumbles in just 12 games. Simmons consistently shuts down passing lanes, limiting opposing quarterbacks to a mere 71.3 passer rating when targeting him. Together, Surtain and Simmons form an impenetrable wall, ensuring Denver’s secondary remains in safe hands.
Jared Goff (QB) and Amon-Ra St. Brown (WR) – Detroit Lions
Under the leadership of quarterback Jared Goff, the Detroit Lions’ offense has found new life, thanks in large part to the dynamic partnership he has formed with wide receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown. Goff’s second season with the Lions witnessed the shattering of franchise records, boasting an impressive touchdown-to-interception ratio of 4.14 and an interception rate of just 1.2%. He threw for 4,438 yards, 29 touchdowns, and only seven interceptions, proving his resurgence in Motown.
St. Brown, an underrated gem at wide receiver, has become Goff’s go-to target. In 2022, he tallied an impressive 106 receptions for 1,161 yards and six touchdowns, becoming the third player in Lions history aged 23 or younger to achieve a 1,000-yard season. Moreover, St. Brown’s exceptional performance marked him as the youngest player in franchise history to produce a 100-catch season. With a record-tying streak of eight straight games with eight or more receptions, he has solidified his position among the league’s elite. The Goff-St. Brown connection showcases the Lions’ potential to rise as a force in the NFC.
Aaron Jones (RB) and A.J. Dillon (RB) – Green Bay Packers
As the Green Bay Packers navigate the uncharted territory of a new starting quarterback, Jordan Love, they can rely on the devastating running back duo of Aaron Jones and A.J. Dillon to carry the load. Jones, with his explosive speed and agility, rushed for 1,121 yards last season, ranking him among the top 10 in the league. His impressive 5.3 yards per carry and 1,516 yards from scrimmage solidify him as a threat in both rushing and receiving.
Complementing Jones’ finesse, Dillon brings the power element to Green Bay’s backfield. Over the past two seasons, he has amassed an impressive 1,573 yards and 12 rushing touchdowns. His contributions, especially in short-yardage situations, add a dynamic dimension to the Packers’ offense. With Jones and Dillon spearheading their ground attack, Green Bay possesses a luxurious and formidable running game.
Dameon Pierce (RB) and Devin Singletary (RB) – Houston Texans
In a season where rookie quarterback C.J. Stroud takes the reins, the Houston Texans will rely heavily on their dynamic running back duo of Dameon Pierce and Devin Singletary. Pierce, in an outstanding rookie campaign, averaged 72.2 rushing yards per game, ranking him eighth in the NFL and first among all rookie running backs. His impressive 1,104 scrimmage yards placed him fifth among all rookies, showcasing his versatility and impact.
Joining Pierce in the backfield, Singletary provides the veteran presence needed to complement the young rookie. With 1,099 scrimmage yards and six touchdowns in the previous season, Singletary’s reliability and career 4.7 yards-per-carry average make him an invaluable asset. Under the guidance of offensive coordinator Bobby Slowik, the Texans’ running game is poised to flourish in 2023, setting the stage for a successful season.
Quenton Nelson (OL) and Ryan Kelly (OL) – Indianapolis Colts
While the 2022 season may have presented challenges for the Indianapolis Colts’ offensive line, the formidable duo of Quenton Nelson and Ryan Kelly remains a linchpin for success. Despite a subpar season by their own standards, these former All-Pro linemen are far from finished. Nelson, known for his dominance and reliability, experienced an anomalous year, surrendering more sacks and pressures than in his previous four seasons combined. Kelly also encountered struggles, allowing five sacks and 25 pressures in the last campaign.
However, this aberration is expected to be an outlier rather than the norm for Nelson and Kelly. Their track record of excellence and ability to anchor the Colts’ offensive line gives reason to believe that they will rebound in the upcoming season. As they return to their dominant form, the Colts’ offense will find stability and regain its momentum.
Trevor Lawrence (QB) and Travis Etienne (RB) – Jacksonville Jaguars
In the realm of rising stars, the Jacksonville Jaguars possess a duo that is poised to leave an indelible mark on the NFL landscape. Quarterback Trevor Lawrence, already established as a top-10 player at his position, displayed his prowess in his rookie season. With 4,113 passing yards, 25 touchdowns, and a passer rating of 95.2, Lawrence showcased his exceptional talent and potential. Notably, he joined an elite group of players with 20-plus passing touchdowns and five-plus rushing touchdowns in a single season.
Accompanying Lawrence in this dynamic partnership is running back Travis Etienne, who emerged as one of the NFL’s finest in 2022. With 1,125 rushing yards and five touchdowns, Etienne’s explosive plays and versatility cemented his status among the league’s top backs. The youth and immense potential of Lawrence, at just 23, and Etienne, at 24, make them the cornerstone of the Jaguars’ future.
Patrick Mahomes (QB) and Travis Kelce (TE) – Kansas City Chiefs
When discussing unparalleled NFL duos, none can overshadow the extraordinary partnership of quarterback Patrick Mahomes and tight end Travis Kelce. Undoubtedly the best duo in the league, Mahomes and Kelce have been instrumental in the Kansas City Chiefs’ two Super Bowl victories in the last four years. Over the past five seasons, they have solidified their positions as the premier players at their respective positions.
Mahomes, a generational talent, has redefined quarterback play. With staggering career statistics that include 23,957 passing yards, 192 passing touchdowns, and a 106.0 passer rating, he has elevated the Chiefs’ offense to unprecedented heights. Kelce, on the other hand, ranks among the NFL’s elite tight ends, boasting 6,444 receiving yards, 504 receptions, and 47 touchdowns since Mahomes assumed the starting role. Their symbiotic connection has propelled the Chiefs to five consecutive AFC Championship games, three conference titles, and two Super Bowl triumphs.
Josh Jacobs (RB) and Davante Adams (WR) – Las Vegas Raiders
The Las Vegas Raiders have unleashed a fearsome tandem in their offensive arsenal. Josh Jacobs, the league’s reigning rushing champion, has been a force to be reckoned with, consistently delivering impressive performances. Paired with the electrifying Davante Adams, the Raiders boast the most productive receiver in the NFL over the last half-decade. With Jacobs’ bruising running style and Adams’ knack for finding the end zone, this duo will keep opposing defenses on their toes all season long.
Justin Herbert (QB) and Austin Ekeler (RB) – Los Angeles Chargers
In the City of Angels, the Los Angeles Chargers have a duo that has the potential to take the NFL by storm. Justin Herbert, who has already achieved historic milestones in his young career, combines his rocket arm with incredible accuracy to lead the Chargers’ offense. Alongside him is Austin Ekeler, a versatile and explosive running back who consistently finds ways to make an impact. With Herbert’s arm and Ekeler’s ability to contribute in both the running and passing game, the Chargers have a formidable duo capable of carrying them to new heights.
Matthew Stafford (QB) and Cooper Kupp (WR) – Los Angeles Rams
Matthew Stafford and Cooper Kupp might have been limited in their on-field partnership last season, but their potential is undeniable. Having previously won a Super Bowl together, these two possess the chemistry and talent to wreak havoc on opposing defenses. With Stafford’s arm strength and Kupp’s ability to create separation and make big plays, the Rams have a deadly duo that can swing the momentum in their favor. If both players return to their peak form, the Rams will be a force to be reckoned with in the NFC West.
Tyreek Hill (WR) and Jaylen Waddle (WR) – Miami Dolphins
The Miami Dolphins have found lightning in a bottle with their explosive wide receiver duo. Tyreek Hill, known for his blazing speed and game-breaking ability, has taken the NFL by storm. Joining him is Jaylen Waddle, a rising star who emerged as a dynamic playmaker in his rookie season. Together, they bring a lethal combination of speed, route-running, and big-play potential. With Hill and Waddle stretching defenses to their limits, the Dolphins’ offense has become a nightmare to defend.
Justin Jefferson (WR) and T.J. Hockenson (TE) – Minnesota Vikings
In Minnesota, the Vikings have a pair of offensive weapons that strike fear into the hearts of opposing teams. Justin Jefferson, already considered one of the game’s best wide receivers, has shattered records and become a nightmare for defenses to contain. Alongside him is T.J. Hockenson, a talented tight end who has proven to be a reliable target for his quarterback. With Jefferson’s explosiveness and Hockenson’s versatility, the Vikings have a duo capable of carrying their offense to new heights.
Matt Judon (LB) and Josh Uche (LB) – New England Patriots
The New England Patriots boast one of the most formidable pass-rushing duos in the league. Matt Judon and Josh Uche wreaked havoc on opposing quarterbacks last season, piling up double-digit sacks and leading a dominant Patriots defense. With their relentless pursuit of quarterbacks and ability to disrupt plays, Judon and Uche provide the Patriots with a defensive edge that is hard to match.
Alvin Kamara (RB) and Jamaal Williams (RB) – New Orleans Saints
The New Orleans Saints have a new dynamic duo in their backfield. Alvin Kamara, a multi-dimensional running back with a unique skill set, has consistently been a nightmare for opposing defenses. Joining him is Jamaal Williams, a free-agent signing known for his versatility and nose for the end zone. Together, Kamara and Williams form a formidable tandem that will keep opposing defenses guessing.
Daniel Jones (QB) and Saquon Barkley (RB) – New York Giants
Look no further than Daniel Jones and Saquon Barkley as the driving force behind the New York Giants’ playoff run last season. With an offense lacking playmakers, Jones showcased remarkable growth, leading the league in interception rate while displaying an impressive rushing ability. Barkley, playing in every game Jones did, delivered a standout performance, finishing fourth in rushing yards. As the Giants aim to secure another playoff berth, the success of Jones and Barkley remains paramount.
Sauce Gardner (CB) and Quinnen Williams (DL) – New York Jets
The New York Jets boast an exceptional young duo in Sauce Gardner and Quinnen Williams. Gardner, a rookie sensation, already established himself as one of the best cornerbacks in the league, earning First Team All-Pro honors and the Defensive Rookie of the Year title. Meanwhile, Williams, a dominant force as a defensive tackle, recorded impressive numbers in sacks, pressures, and hits. The emergence of Gardner and Williams played a significant role in the Jets’ defensive turnaround, making them a formidable tandem.
Jason Kelce (OL) and Lane Johnson (OL) – Philadelphia Eagles
Amidst the wealth of talent on the Philadelphia Eagles’ roster, Jason Kelce and Lane Johnson shine as two of the premier offensive linemen in the game. Kelce’s consistent excellence earned him another First Team All-Pro selection, displaying his remarkable pass-blocking skills with zero sacks allowed throughout the season. Johnson, equally impressive, showcased his prowess in protecting the quarterback and received First Team All-Pro honors as well. Together, Kelce and Johnson form the backbone of the NFL’s best offensive line.
T.J. Watt (LB) and Cameron Heyward (DL) – Pittsburgh Steelers
T.J. Watt and Cameron Heyward serve as the driving force behind the Pittsburgh Steelers’ formidable defense. Despite an injury-shortened season for Watt, his impact was undeniable, as the Steelers’ defense significantly improved when he was on the field. Heyward, a consistent force at defensive tackle, earned his sixth consecutive Pro Bowl selection while recording impressive numbers in sacks, pressures, and hits. The duo’s presence on the field instills fear in opponents and cements the Steelers’ reputation as a defensive powerhouse.
Nick Bosa (DL) and Fred Warner (LB) – San Francisco 49ers
The San Francisco 49ers boast one of the most dynamic defensive duos in the league with Nick Bosa and Fred Warner. Bosa, the reigning Defensive Player of the Year, led the NFL in sacks and pressures, wreaking havoc on opposing quarterbacks. Warner, an elite off-ball linebacker, earned First Team All-Pro honors and showcased his versatility in tackles, passes defensed, and sacks. The 49ers’ defensive dominance is largely attributed to the exceptional performances of Bosa and Warner.
Tyler Lockett (WR) and D.K. Metcalf (WR) – Seattle Seahawks
Tyler Lockett and D.K. Metcalf form one of the most formidable wide receiver duos in the NFL. Lockett’s consistent production, marked by his fourth consecutive 1,000-yard season, solidifies his status as a reliable target. Meanwhile, Metcalf’s physicality and explosive playmaking abilities make him a nightmare for opposing defenses. Regardless of the quarterback under center, Lockett and Metcalf’s chemistry and talent make them a lethal combination for the Seattle Seahawks.
Mike Evans (WR) and Chris Godwin (WR) – Tampa Bay Buccaneers
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers boast an incredibly reliable wide receiver duo in Mike Evans and Chris Godwin. Evans continues to extend his record-breaking streak of consecutive 1,000-yard seasons, while Godwin excels in yards per game and catch rate. Together, they consistently deliver strong performances, complementing each other’s skill sets to contribute to the Buccaneers’ offensive success. Evans and Godwin’s reliability makes them a crucial asset for any quarterback leading the Tampa Bay offense.
Jeffery Simmons (DL) and Harold Landry (LB) – Tennessee Titans
Jeffery Simmons and Harold Landry anchor the Tennessee Titans’ defensive line, with both players demonstrating their exceptional skills and potential. Landry’s breakout season in 2021 showcased his ability to pressure quarterbacks, while Simmons consistently dominated as an interior pass rusher. Despite Landry’s absence due to injury last season, Simmons continued to excel, further solidifying his status as a formidable force. With their best years still ahead, Simmons and Landry represent the Titans’ defensive future.
Daron Payne (DL) and Montez Sweat (DL) – Washington Commanders
The Washington Commanders’ strength lies in their dominant defensive line, featuring the remarkable duo of Daron Payne and Montez Sweat. Sweat’s career-best season demonstrated his relentless pursuit of quarterbacks, while Payne showcased his interior pass-rushing prowess. Their combined efforts create constant pressure on opposing offenses and contribute to the competitiveness of Washington’s defense. With both players still young and developing, Sweat and Payne form the backbone of the Commanders’ defensive success.
In the realm of NFL duos, these exceptional pairings epitomize the art of collaboration. From explosive offensive combinations to unyielding defensive tandems, these players possess the unique chemistry and individual brilliance necessary to propel their respective teams to victory in the upcoming 2023 season. As the new season approaches, all eyes will be on these dynamic duos, poised to redefine the NFL landscape with their extraordinary talents, while fans eagerly anticipate the thrilling action on the field and explore the latest odds and opportunities on NJ online sports betting sites.
