There are only three defensive players left from Mike Smith’s regime. All three of them were selected in the 2013 draft.
Desmond Trufant has established himself as one of the most dependable cornerbacks in the league. With Dan Quinn constructing a defense based on speed and versatility, it provided a niche for Kemal Ishmael, and he remains a core special teamer. It leaves Robert Alford as the final player remaining from that draft class. Many thought the former second round pick was expendable, especially with Jalen Collins appearing to be a natural fit in Quinn’s defense.