The New Orleans Saints' week one battle against the Detroit Lions will be won in the trenches. While Chase Young, Taliese Fuaga, and Kelvin Banks are the most notable pieces, nobody has a bigger opportunity than defensive tackle Vernon Broughton. The 2025 third-round pick has a chance to dominate a questionable Lions offensive line and establish himself as a budding star.
Broughton was forgotten after an injury in the first game of his rookie campaign kept the defensive tackle out for the rest of the season. However, he’s in-line for a breakout season after Bryan Bresee tore his ACL in training camp. Now, Broughton is the clear-cut top option to replace the veteran.
Broughton’s performance throughout the year will quietly indicate the success of Brandon Staley’s defense. His athleticism makes him a major factor in both providing pressure on the quarterback and stopping the run. His command of the trenches is the difference between winning and losing, which will be evident this week.
Vernon Broughton must dominate a subpar Lions interior offensive line.
The Lions' interior offensive line is arguably their weakest position, particularly at left guard and center. They haven’t officially named a left guard starter, but Christian Mahogany is the favorite. The former 2024 sixth-round pick saw 699 snaps last year, but he struggled in pass protection, allowing six sacks and 27 pressures.
The Lions signed former Carolina Panthers center Cade Mays to a four-year contract this offseason. He’s a starting-caliber player, but suffered a wrist injury in training camp and will miss significant time. As a result, Juice Scruggs, who’s predominantly a guard, will start.
Vernon Broughton should dominate in these circumstances. He didn’t get the opportunity to showcase his skill set in 2025, but he’s an uber-athletic player who uses his quick first step and staggering power to impose his will. This makes him a threat to blow up an opposing game plan, as he has the potential to become an imposing presence.
The Lions' offense will dismantle the Saints if they don’t have backfield penetration. Goff will sit in the pocket and dissect a questionable secondary if he’s not sped up. Similarly, Jahmyr Gibbs will feast if he’s given time to read the field and take an open lane.
Obviously, the entire defensive line will impact this, but none has a more advantageous matchup than Vernon Broughton. Don’t be shocked to hear his name frequently throughout the game and see him blossom into a rising star.
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