What defensive positions should inspire hope among New Orleans Saints fans? Today, we tackle this question by ranking the five groups based on their trustworthiness heading into 2026. Plenty will change throughout the season, but this is where things currently stand.
In a recent article, I ranked the offensive positions with the same guidelines. I’ll be using the same criteria I highlighted there in this ranking: combining proven production, top-tier talent, and depth pieces. It’s a subjective ranking, and everyone’s entitled to their own thoughts, but this is where I believe each position ranks.
It’s important to note that Jonas Sanker will primarily play the STAR position in 2026. Because of this, I didn’t factor him into either safety or cornerback. So, take that into mind throughout the rankings.
Edge rusher is the clear top choice in terms of trustworthiness.
Edge Rusher
The edge rusher unit has the perfect mix of top-end talent with reliable depth, making it the top position on defense. Chase Young is a bona fide star, Cameron Jordan is aging yet still effective, and Carl Granderson has flashed immense talent. Additionally, trade acquisition Tyree Wilson and free agent signing Anfernee Jennings provide valuable depth in case of injury.
Another aspect that makes this group impressive is its versatility and ability on all three downs. They have a combination of dynamic pass rushers and stifling run stoppers. As a result, they can match up with any offense. Saints fans should be optimistic about this group heading into 2026.
2. Safety
The Saints’ safeties aren’t flashy, but they are a veteran unit that will get the job done. Justin Reid and Julian Blackmon are the projected starters, both of whom have ample experience.
The depth behind them isn’t outstanding behind them, but Jordan Howden and Terrell Burgess are capable backups. This is a trustworthy group that will play a key role in the success of Brandon Staley’s defense.
3. Linebacker
Losing Demario Davis is a huge blow, but the Saints have enough talent to replace him. They reunited with Kaden Elliss this offseason, who will be Staley’s versatile chess piece.
Beyond Elliss, they retained Pete Werner, Danny Stutsman, who’s poised to have a breakout season, Isaiah Stalbird, and Jaylan Ford. There are major questions with the consistency of this group, but fans should still be hopeful about the linebackers.
4. Cornerback
The Saints are banking on Kool-Aid McKinstry becoming a Pro Bowl caliber player, which he easily can if he stays reliable, and Quincy Riley developing in his sophomore campaign. They added Martin Emerson Jr. this offseason, who will be their third option, but didn’t make many other moves outside of him. The lack of depth is concerning and could be under a microscope if one of the aforementioned players get injured.
5. Defensive Tackle
The defensive tackles would be much higher if this article was made two weeks earlier. However, a season-ending injury to Bryan Bresee significantly hinders the position. As a result, they will heavily rely upon second-year player Vernon Broughton to replace his production, who missed all of 2025 with an injury. They did draft Chrsiten Miller in the second round of the 2026 NFL Draft, who should inspire hope among Saints fans, but it will take time for him to develop.Â
Overall, the position has ample young talent, and could rank higher on this list later in the season. But right now there are too many questions to move them up.
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