We are over halfway through the New Orleans Saints season. This makes it a perfect time to look back at some pre-season predictions and see how they’ve aged. One that I wrote ranked the Saints’ defensive positions based on trustworthiness.
Bradon Staley’s unit didn’t have high preseason expectations. The Saints heavily emphasized adding offensive firepower this offseason, so some defensive needs went unmet. As a result, fans knew they might struggle, and they have.
However, there have been some redeeming qualities, particularly at edge rusher. It’s important to highlight these and recognize their contributions. That said, it’s time to revisit my pre-season rankings of the Saints’ defense based on trustworthiness.
It was easy to predict the edge rusher’s success
This shouldn’t be a surprise to anyone. Chase Young and Carl Granderson, who each rank in the top five in the NFL in sacks, have dominated and single-handedly kept the Saints’ defense competitive. I noted how they anchor the unit, although not to this extent, in the article.
“The edge rusher unit has the perfect mix of top-end talent with reliable depth, making it the top position on defense,” I wrote. “Chase Young is a bona fide star, Cameron Jordan is aging yet still effective, and Carl Granderson has flashed immense talent.”
Beyond this, the Saints’ depth at edge rusher is solid. Cameron Jordan, Tyree Wilson, and Anfernee Jennings have all been quality contributors. Together, this is easily the top defensive unit.
The safeties and linebackers have both been solid
Both the linebackers and safeties have quietly been solid in 2026. They haven’t been exceptional, but certainly aren’t the weakest spots on the defense.
I originally ranked the safeties second, highlighting their proven production. In retrospect, I wouldn’t place them above the linebackers, but it certainly isn’t a bad ranking. Julian Blackmon, Justin Reid, and Jonas Sanker have all played well at times.
The linebackers had major questions in preseason after Demario Davis’ departure, which led to them being placed at three. However, Kaden Elliss has been great while healthy, and Pete Werner is having a productive season. It still needs help this offseason, but it’s been better than anticipated.
The run defense remains a serious concern, but that’s not entirely on them.
The cornerbacks and defensive tackles have predictably disappointed so far
It was obvious during the preseason, and it still is. The cornerbacks and the defensive tackles are by far the weakest positions on defense.
I ranked cornerbacks slightly higher than the defensive tackles because of Kool-Aid McKinstry. He was expected to break out, but he has been mediocre and has allowed multiple game-changing plays. Outside of him, Martin Emerson has been fine, except for his exceptional performance against the New York Giants, and Quincy Riley has been subpar.
The defensive tackle room was cursed from the start after Bryan Bresee’s torn ACL. Khristian Boyd has been a pleasant surprise with two sacks and three tackles for loss. However, there isn’t much else to write home about. It’s tough to trust a unit when they struggle to stop the run and provides little pass-rush presence.
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