If there is one defense that you have no idea who they are, but whenever you see their production on the field, they catch your attention, it would be the Saints’ defense. They embody the true meaning of having a no-name defense. They were 14th overall in total defense, points allowed, 29th against the pass, and an impressive 2nd in the league against the run. Based on those statistics, the Saints are labeled as a middle-of-the-pack defense, but their performance on the field would tell you otherwise.
The Saints’ defense was why the team could secure home-field advantage throughout last year’s postseason. Regarding the personnel on the defensive side of the ball, which player is known league-wide outside of Cam Jordan and Marshon Lattimore? Saints Discussions list and breakdown three players that played a crucial role in the team’s turnaround on defense and may carry this ball club to a second Super Bowl title.
Demario Davis: OLB
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Hands down, he was one of the best free-agent acquisitions the Saints have had on defense since acquiring Jonathan Vilma from the Jets in 2009. In his first season with the Saints, Demario Davis was named a defensive captain, and he elevated the team to finish 2nd in the league against the rush. By far, he was the emotional leader of the Saints’ defense and will be expected the carry that mantra going into the 2019 season.
Sheldon Rankins: DT
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2018 was a breakout season for Saints defensive tackle Sheldon Rankins. He had career highs in sacks (8) and tackles (40). Rankins contributed to why the Saints’ defense was so dominant against the run. He will miss the start of the 2019 season due to a torn Achilles injury he suffered in last year’s divisional-round matchup against the Philadelphia Eagles. If he resembles any production from last year’s 2018 season once he returns from the injury, then the Saints’ defense will again be a headache for any rushing attack.
P.J. Williams: CB
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After being picked apart in the first meeting against the Atlanta Falcons last season, cornerback P.J. Williams was able to solidify himself as an impact player on defense. P.J. never backed down from a challenge, especially against some of the league’s best wide receivers. His most significant moment came in the road game against the Minnesota Vikings when he returned an interception for a 45-yard touchdown off Kirk Cousins. The following week against the Los Angeles Rams, Williams made a crucial play that would allow the Saints to take over on downs late in the fourth quarter. Going into next season, Williams will expect to take his game to an even higher level.
The Saints roster is loaded with playmakers on both sides of the football that folks have never heard of. This defense could guide them to the Super Bowl in Miami next season.
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