Cody Benjamin at CBS set out to answer the question of who is the best active player to wear every number. Four New Orleans Saints players took home the distinction as the greatest current player. Alvin Kamara is an obvious choice, and he was joined by a few of his teammates, notably Demario Davis.
The list of Saints participants was rounded out by Juwan Johnson and Carl Granderson. Three of them didn’t have much competition, but one had to earn his spot among some elite players.
NFL players can be synonymous with their jersey number. Drew Brees will always represent number 9 and Cameron Jordan will always be number 94 for the New Orleans Saints. The quartet of Saints on this list is looking to be in that same class. There's a strong argument Kamara is already there.
Demario Davis has worthy competition for the top player to wear No. 56
Demario Davis has some tough competition for this spot. 56 is a popular number that’s worn by a talented group of players. However, he’s proven that he is worthy of representing No. 56.
Davis is still playing at a high level despite being 36 years old. The 13 year veteran is coming off a career best 136 tackles. Davis is a defensive leader who plays a pivotal role in the Saints defense. His full impact can’t be measured on the stat sheet.
Davis’s competition for the top player:
- Quenton Nelson, Guard, Colts
- George Karlaftis, Edge rusher, Chiefs
- Edgerrin Cooper, Linebacker, Packers
Alvin Kamara, Juwan Johnson and Carl Granderson run relatively unopposed
Alvin Kamara
Alvin Kamara easily ran away as the best player to rock No. 41. The five time pro bowler may be 29 but shows no signs of slowing down. He set his career high with 950 rushing yards in 2024. New head coach Kellen Moore loves to run the ball, so be prepared for Kamara to have another big year.
Kamara’s competition for the top player:
- Reggie Gilliam, Fullback, Bills
- Micah McFadden, Linebacker, Giants
- Ko Kieft, Tight end, Bucs
Juwan Johnson
Juwan Johnson isn’t thought of as a star player but he’s still an impactful player on the Saints offense. In fact, Johnson led the team with 548 receiving yards in 2024. The former receiver turned tight end is in a position to be used as the Saints primary contested catch target in 2025. If he can capitalize on the opportunity, he will be in for a big year.
Johnson’s competition for the top player:
- Jahan Dotson WR Eagles
- Noah Gray TE Chiefs
- Jalen Nailor WR Vikings
Carl Granderson
Carl Granderson has been one of the Saints best players on the defensive line in recent years. The former undrafted free agent has developed into a productive player. He is coming off of three seasons in a row with over five sacks. Although he doesn’t have a ton of competition for the number, he is worthy of holding the title.
Granderson’s competition for the top player:
- Greg Gaines DT Bucs
- Denico Autry DE Texans
- Al-Quadin Muhammad DE Bears
Cody Benjamin gave four Saints the honor of being the best player at their jersey number. Although Davis is the only one with elite competition, they are all more than worthy of holding the distinction due to their productive play.