Saints lock in key defender, extending linebacker Pete Werner

Not that there was any doubt, but Pete Werner is going to be around with the New Orleans Saints for a long time. The team made that official on Thursday, signing the linebacker to a three-year extension worth more than $25 million. He’s now set to be with the team through the 2027 season.

This is a day that seemed inevitable after Werner broke on to the scene for New Orleans as a rookie. As he improved each year, it was clear he’d be a key piece of the New Orleans defense moving forward.

Saints sign Pete Werner to a three-year extension

Selected in the second round of the 2021 Draft out of Ohio State, Werner played in 15 games as a rookie, starting eight. In those 15 games, he recorded 62 tackles with four for a loss. Year two, was when he really made his name, starting 11 of the 12 games he played, recording 80 tackles, three for a loss, and two forced fumbles.

Last season, Werner’s numbers increased to 93 tackles with four for a loss and half a sack, and he also recorded an interception, but he didn’t look as good as he did in year two. He struggled a bit against the pass and in the run, and while he wasn’t necessarily bad, everyone knew he could be better. Because of that, there was a little concern, and the Saints even brought in Wille Gay to compete with Werner.

So far, Werner has responded and he has been having an outstandimg camp. That’s likely a big reason why the team was able to get this deal done. Now, Werner will prepare for a 2024 season with one of the best linebacker units in the NFL. With Demario Davis currently 35, and Gay only signed to a one-year deal, Werner is the unquestioned future of the defense at linebacker.

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