ESPN's Adam Schefter reported that former New Orleans Saints linebacker Demario Davis agreed to a two-year, $22 million deal with the New York Jets on Monday afternoon. Although this is crushing for the Saints, it opens up an opportunity for Danny Stutsman. The second year player must step up in order for Brandon Staley’s defense to find success.
Davis’ impact on the Saints defense can’t be understated. On the field, he was a monster. He tallied a career high 143 tackles in 2025 despite being 37 years old. Additionally, he was a superb leader and helped shape a culture on defense. He’s a massive loss and will forever be a Saints legend.
However, life moves on, and the Saints must focus on replacing him. Luckily for them, they have a potential option in Stutsman. He has the chance to establish himself as a leader and elite defensive presence.
Danny Stustman will play a pivotal role in Brandon Staley’s defense
Stustman will be vaulted into the starting role and will be the facilitator on defense. He has big shoes to fill, especially in the run game. Fortunately for the Saints, this is the area Stustman thrives in. He’s excellent against the run and quickly diagnoses where he needs to be. He’s superb at navigating through traffic and reaching the backfield to make a play. Similar to Davis, Stustman has violent intentions while tackling. This can give the defense energy and help them rally around a big play.Â
The biggest issue with Stutsman’s game is his pass coverage ability. However, this was the area that Davis struggled with as well later in his career. Stutsman still needs significant development to reach the veteran’s level, but it isn’t a dealbreaker that he’s not stellar.Â
Demario Davis signing elsewhere is a major loss for the Saints, but it does open up an opportunity for Danny Stustman. This was always the vision for him when the Saints drafted him a year ago. The timeline of when was just never clear. In his second year, Brandon Staley will rely on Stutsman to be an enforcer and a leader in wake of Davis.