5 most underappreciated players in New Orleans Saints history

4. Sammy Knight, S (1997-2002)

After playing for USC, Sammy Knight went undrafted in 1997. The Saints brought him in on a one-year deal worth just $138,500. Not only did he outperform expectations in making the roster but he won a starting job and had 84 tackles and five picks that year.

Knight followed this up with 75 tackles and six picks in 1998, including two touchdowns on returns. These numbers weren't flukes either as he had 570 tackles, 28 interceptions, and four defensive touchdowns in six seasons with the Saints.

Despite his success, he wasn't retained in 2003 as he joined the Miami Dolphins — and has never been given the recognition he deserves for how well he played for the Saints.

Back in 2011, Will Osgood of Bleacher Report had Knight as the No. 1 most underrated player in team history. He says the Saints were unfortunate to lose him since he continued to have success after leaving in 2002 despite bouncing around the league.

"Sadly Sammy Knight ended up playing for a number of different teams by the end of his career, but the start he had as a member of the Saints was amazing.

Few safeties had the natural ball skills and play-making ability as Knight. It's a shame the Saints couldn't figure out a way to keep Knight at the end of his contract because he continued to have good years for the Dolphins for a number of years after leaving the New Orleans. "

- Osgood, Bleacher Report

Knight last played in the NFL in 2008 and has 1,048 career tackles and 42 interceptions. He was a major overachiever considering his undrafted status but never got the attention he deserves, finishing with just one Pro Bowl appearance.