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Eric Christian Smith/Associated Press

The title says it all. There are eight divisions in the NFL, and this article includes each group’s best defensive standout. It’s a star-studded list that includes some of the top players in the league regardless of position.

The selections are based partly on the individual's showing in 2015, but career performance is also a major factor.

There are more than a fair share of honorable mentions, which include at least one performer from nearly every team in the league.

Some of those names include a player who will break out in 2016, be it in familiar surroundings or with a new team.