Who is the most important player for the New Orleans Saints’ defense? Many will think of edge rusher Chase Young or cornerback Kool-Aid McKinstry, and while both of these players are vital, neither reaches the level of second-year safety Jonas Sanker. His performance will play a pivotal role not only in the success of the Saints’ defense, but also for their entire season.
At OTAs, Sanker took first-team snaps in the STAR role. This position, a hybrid of a safety, cornerback, and linebacker, plays a major part in defensive coordinator Brandon Staley’s defense. It requires a physical presence that can drop into coverage, defend the run, and blitz the quarterback. Because of this, a select few players can thrive in the position.
Last year, veteran Alontae Taylor held the role. However, he departed for the Tennessee Titans this offseason, leaving the position vacant. As a result, many Saints’ fans believed the team would address it during free agency or the draft. To their surprise, they made no such move. Instead, relying on the in-house options. Now, it seems that Sanker is taking control and will be the primary option heading into 2026.
Jonas Sanker’s performance will define the defense’s season.
The importance of the STAR role can’t be understated. A lackluster performance from this spot will heavily hinder both the run defense and pass coverage. As aforementioned, it’s asked to do a wide variety of things and should always be near the ball. It’s not a traditional position, but it has arguably the most impactful job.
Sanker’s development throughout the season will play a key role in the Saints’ season. It will take time for him to adjust to the role; it’s a new position that he’s never played. Fortunately for him, his versatility will help ease this transition. While he was mainly a free safety in 2025, Sanker saw over 700 snaps from the slot in college. He’s comfortable playing close to the line of scrimmage, a needed quality.
It will still take time, but this will lessen the learning curve. Staley heavily relies upon this position, asking it to do countless things. As a result, it’s oftentimes the most impactful player on the field. Looking back at last year, Taylor was constantly in the headlines, being profound on every down. Sanker undeniably had a breakout season last year, but he will have to be much louder this upcoming year.
While Chase Young or Kool-Aid McKinstry are getting the headlines, Jonas Sanker will be the most important and impactful player for the Saints’ defense next year. If he performs well in the STAR role, don’t be surprised to see this team making a run to the playoffs.
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