DT's other than Walter Thomas
 

New Orleans Saints

Defensive tackle was the team's most ignored draft need. But young backups Rodney Leisle, 26, and Antwan Lake, 27, have a greater opportunity to perform. Both were decent backups last season, working their way into the rotation behind Hollis Thomas and Brian Young. Leisle, thickly built at 6-3, 315 pounds, was in a heated battle with Thomas for the starting job in training camp last season before he injured a knee. If Leisle shows more consistency he could emerge as a starter.

Source: Sporting News (http://sports.yahoo.com/nfl/news?slu...=tsn&type=lgns)

Honestly, I don't know a whole lot about Leisle or Lake. I know Lake had an okay season for ATL a couple of years ago and Leisle hasn't really played that much. What are some thoughts about these guys talent level? If they're healthy, are either potential starters?

Which one filled in for Hollis for the 4 games he missed?

I beleive he did quite well.

Lake pretty much is a career backup type of player. Leisle has a chance to be more than that. At 6-3 315, thats good size... and he suppose to be very strong.

Actually, it was pretty much the same if I remember correctly. Too lazy to dig up the stats.

I agree, Lake and Leslie are rotation guys and spot starters at best. We need someone but you know that Payton and Loomis won't bring in a DT just for the sake of bringing in a DT. They are looking for someone who can play but also someone who won't screw-up the locker room and is in shape. Especially after they just picked up Walter Thomas off the street and then kick him right back to the curb. Any player like that is going to be under contract.
I wouldn't rule out a trade later this year. That's how we improved or LB's last year. And that was right before the start of the season.

The Sporting News (I guess they are still publishing?) reports that Leisle will push Hollis for the starting job.

No, seriously.


http://sports.yahoo.com/nfl/news;_yl...=tsn&type=lgns