Why the Saints could have a top 5 total defense

LB/DE Zack Baun

Zack Baun is more than a third-round draft pick who could see some playing time. Baun had a first-round grade by the Saints and many teams, but he slipped to the third round. The Saints made an aggressive trade up to grab the Wisconsin stud.

Baun’s versatility can provide so many plays and impact for the Saints run and pass defense. He can compliment Davis in the linebacking corps, then Baun can come off the edge on third down and have Jordan kick inside.

This is a player that can provide dividends in the run and pass game. Baun has incredible quickness and a high motor. That ability will serve Baun well, as he hopes to make plays in coverage and off the edge.

New Orleans defense may seem to be looked at as a top 8-12 defense. If they can get a serious contribution from a rookie, similar to what rookie safety/linebacker Kenny Vaccaro provided in 2013, they can cause some serious damage in the NFL.

This defense poses lots of similarities from their 2013 fourth-ranked defensive unit. Two good corners, a very good pass rush looming, and a versatile rookie who could provide play-making ability are represented on both the 2020 Saints defense and 2013 Saints defense.

The Saints defensive coordinator, Dennis Allen, will surely be ecstatic about the talent and versatility that he has at is his disposal heading into the 2020 NFL season.

To top it off, Dennis Allen may be fuming about the head coaching job that he lost a few years ago. There could be added motivation for the defensive coordinator to show that his progress with the Saints defense can translate to head coaching an NFL team that has some talent and patience for him.

New Orleans has all the tools on defense to rank top 5 this season and help Drew Brees more than usual.