Shutdown defenders have the talent to erase receivers from the game. When they enter the zone, their coverage is tighter and interceptions are more frequent on contested catches.

Defenders with this ability have higher chance to catch uncontested interceptions, and they have unlimited stamina on the return (until using a special move or breaking a tackle).

Defenders with this ability generally react much faster to receiver cut moves when in man coverage and inside the numbers

Defenders with this ability force more catch knockouts and react quicker in deep zone coverage, 20+ yards from the LoS and outside the hash marks.

Defenders with this ability force more catch tackle knockouts in man-to-man versus medium routes, 10-20 yards from the LoS.