3 Saints players who could be nice surprises in 2024

2. Willie Gay could be a nice surprise for Saints in 2024

Linebacker Willie Gay was the first signing for New Orleans during free agency this offseason. The former Kansas City Chiefs linebacker signed a one-year deal with the Saints. After winning two Super Bowl rings with the Chiefs, Gay will try to bring some magic to New Orleans.

His path into the starting lineup will have to go through some competition. With Demario Davis and Pete Werner returning as starting linebackers, head coach Dennis Allen recently said that Willie Gay will compete for a starting job. That competition will seemingly be with Werner, deciding who gets to lineup alongside the elite Davis.

In four years in Kansas City, Willie Gay provided the Saints a ton of energy and quality linebacker play. He started 47 of the 57 games he played in, recording 233 tackles, 17 for a loss, five sacks, two forced fumbles, and four interceptions.

It’s very likely that Gay will find his way into the lineup. He’s a fast linebacker that can excel against the run and in pass coverage. Additionally, playing alongside Demario Davis should elevate any linebacker’s game. Gay could become a surprising force for the New Orleans defense this year.