Here’s my CB list, in order of quality. Ratings based on these criteria: positioning, aerial, passing, pace, technical ability, athleticism, mistakes and finally, “defending”.
Maguire
Lindelof
Smalling
Bailly
Tuanzebe
Jones
Rojo
I rate Lindelof and Smalling almost even, but they are two very different players. Lindelof is a classic ball playing CB, and Smalling is fairly limited on the ball. Smalling is better in the air, less mistake prone, but physically dominant and better positioning. I rate their pace as close to equal. Lindelof way ahead on technical ability and passing. I can see a need for both players in the squad.
Bailly and Jones are incredibly mistake prone. Under no circumstances should they be played in an important match. Tuanzebe I rate, but he’s always injured. Rojo is a walking, talking red card who also is mistake prone.
Personally, I’d like to see Smalling return as he is a useful player. Also, it’s not like ball playing, pacey, strong defenders are everywhere...