It’s well documented the New Orleans Saints spent the offseason overhauling their offense through veteran and rookie additions. It's a bit surprising to see that much of a focus on one side of the ball, but Kellen Moore is an offensive minded head coach. Tyler Shough looks like the Saints next franchise quarterback. They're clearly striking while the iron is hot.
The Saints acquired so many new offensive pieces this offseason that quickly investing in new players at the position would be rushing the process. Outside of an Erik McCoy replacement, if he doesn’t stay healthy again, or an Ioane level prospect at guard falling to the Saints in the middle of next year’s first round, it’s hard to imagine the Saints investing much in the offense next offseason.Â
That’s why the pressure is on the individuals on defense to play for their jobs this season. You know reinforcements are on the way, but you don’t know exactly where. There isn't many positions that feel safe.
Everybody on the Saints defense is on the clock
If your name isn’t Christen Miller, Kaden Ellis, Chase Young or Bryan Bresee and you play defense, you’re on the clock. None of the other defenders have a secured spot in 2027. Miller is a rookie so they are naturally going to give him time to grow and develop. Elliss is a free agent addition who won’t be canned after a season. Young is coming off a breakout season and was an impactful rusher the year prior.Â
While Bresee has as much to prove as every other defender, his production up to this point and his fifth year option provides with a layer of security others don’t have.Â
Meanwhile, prominent players like Kool-Aid McKinstry, Quincy Riley, Peter Werner, Carl Granderson and the entire safety room are playing for their jobs in 2026. The list even extends to young players who haven't seen the field much, like Danny Stutsman.
It’d be foolish to say all of these players are going to lose their jobs to incoming additions in 2027, but it’s hard to say none are at risk of being supplanted. The Saints all-offense approach to this draft and offseason will force them to do the exact opposite next year.Â
The biggest candidate to be replaced is Carl Granderson. If I was a betting man, the Saints first round pick will be an edge rusher. The Saints patched up the position with two veteran 1-year deals for Tyree Wilson and Anfernee Jennings. They'll naturally reinvest in the position next year. Expect the Saints to place a priority on getting Chase Young a running mate.
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