Ranking the three most underrated players on the Saints defense
Number One: C.J. Gardner-Johnson
Chauncey (C.J.) Garder-Johnson is a 5-foot-11 defensive back who is one of the most underrated players in the entire NFL. Gardner-Johnson was selected in the fourth round (105th overall) in the 2019 NFL Draft and has the potential to be one of the biggest steals from that draft.
More from Who Dat Dish
- Saints HC Dennis Allen compares Taysom Hill’s role to the Joker
- Saints 2022 Training Camp: Top 4 takeaways from Day 8
- Saints need to extend C.J. Gardner-Johnson ASAP
- Chris Herndon signing is low-risk, high-reward for NOLA Saints
- Saints News: Tyrann Mathieu return and Chris Herndon signing
CJ Gardner-Johnson came in right away and started at the nickel spot and constantly locked down opposing wideouts and tight ends. CJ also proved to be a fierce rusher off the edge and played a similar role to what Vonn Bell did in his tenure in New Orleans.
Gardner-Johnson has racked up 49 total tackles, six tackles for a loss, four quarterback hits, one forced fumble, one fumble recovery, eight passes defended, and one interception.
Gardner-Johnson had a tremendous rookie year and will look to continue his success in 2020.
CJ allowed only two touchdowns all season while blitzing 30 times off the edge and accumulated seven pressures, four quarterback knockdowns, and three hurries. CJG had a terrific season ruined by a few back-to-back penalties against San Fran.
CJ Gardner-Johnson is definitely a key piece to the Saints secondary, and nobody ever talks about him making him one of the most underrated players on the Saints defense.