3 biggest New Orleans Saints surprises of the 2021 season

The 2021 season was one to remember for New Orleans Saints fans. Maybe it didn’t end with a playoff appearance but with everything this team went through in 2021, it’s hard for this season not to be considered one of the most memorable seasons.

Along the way, New Orleans had three players who really surprised this season. No one expected much out of these three players yet they looked darn good when on the field.

It shouldn’t come as a shock that all three of these players are on the defensive side of the ball. I tried to come up with an offensive player but didn’t have much luck. The receivers and tight ends were below average and no offensive lineman stood out aside from those we already know are great.

Let’s dive into the most surprising Saints of 2021.

3. Pete Werner

With their second-round pick, the Saints grabbed Ohio State linebacker, Pete Werner. Linebacker was viewed as one of the weakest positions on the roster entering the 2021 season and by season’s end, it was one of the strongest areas on the team.

Werner teamed up with Kwon Alexander and Demario Davis to make the linebacker position a respectable one. While the hope is that the Saints can retain Alexander in free agency, if they can’t, Werner and Davis will continue to thrive in their roles.

Werner finished the season with 62 tackles, four tackles for loss, and one QB hit through 15 games and eight starts. He had three games where he recorded double-digit tackles and definitely showed why he was deserving of hearing his name called in the second round.