New Orleans Saints: Biggest disappointments on the 2016 roster

Biggest Disappointments on the Saints 2016 Roster

Jan 11, 2017

Dec 4, 2016; New Orleans, LA, USA; Detroit Lions quarterback Matthew Stafford (9) passes the ball past New Orleans Saints outside linebacker Stephone Anthony (50) and defensive end Cameron Jordan (94) at Mercedes-Benz Superdome. Detroit defeated New Orleans 28-13. Mandatory Credit: Crystal LoGiudice-USA TODAY Sports /

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Dec 21, 2015; New Orleans, LA, USA; Detroit Lions tight end Eric Ebron (85) catches a pass over New Orleans Saints middle linebacker Stephone Anthony (50) and strong safety Kenny Vaccaro (32) during the second half of a game at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome. The Lions defeated the Saints 35-27. Mandatory Credit: Derick E. Hingle-USA TODAY Sports /

Stephone Anthony

I’m sure everyone knew that Stephone Anthony would make this list.

After starting as a rookie MLB for the Saints in 2015, Anthony moved over to SLB in 2016. Many had it pegged as a good move: it would take some of the thinking out of his role, and let him run and hit. After all, he’s pretty good at that.

Unfortunately, he barely saw the field. And when he did, he looked lost.

Anthony’s development was well documented by the Saints media. Both Payton and Dennis Allen discussed the fact that Anthony struggled with his understanding of the game. No one questions his athleticism, but he consistently made bad reads and left his assignments.

In his defense, Canal Street Chronicles just put up a film review, where they discussed the ways in which Anthony did show improvement in his sophomore year. Check it out.

The Saints are in the market for a good MLB, even though Craig Robertson filled the role admirably in 2016. Unfortunately, it doesn’t look like Anthony will be the answer there.

With a new LB coach imminent, I’m sure the Saints are holding out hope that Anthony can still develop into a contributor, with his athleticism and tackling ability. But I wouldn’t hold your breath.