New Orleans Saints Forums - blackandgold.com - Article Saints vs. Falcons 2013 Player Grades: Defense and Special Teams

Cameron Jordan: C+ (2.33) Despite a great preseason of constant pressure on opposing quarterbacks, he didn't get much pressure on Matt Ryan for the majority of this game. He did a good job in run support, though, and finished with 3 tackles. A quiet day.

Akiem Hicks: B (3.00) Hicks finished with 3 tackles and a BIG TIME sack on Ryan, where he embarrassed his blocker and threw Ryan to the ground merely by grabbing his jersey. Hicks was disruptive and proved he can be a physical player and capable starter. He has the ability to be a complete player with his size, quickness and ability to be effective in any situation. He did hurt his grade by giving Steven Jackson the initial lane that sprung his 50 yard scamper, though.

Brodrick Bunkley: B- (2.67) I feel weird grading him because he played so little, but man, he really did a fantastic job of controlling the line of scrimmage and interior before leaving the game at the end of the first quarter with an injury. Too bad because he seemed to be comfortable in the middle.

Tom Johnson: B- (2.67) In spot duty he had a big time pressure and hit on Matt Ryan that got the Saints off the field, and he also had a tackle. If Walker's injury is serious, the Saints will be glad they held onto this reliable veteran for the 53 man roster.

Tyrunn Walker: B- (2.67) In limited play time he teamed up with Junior Galette to rock Matt Ryan for a sack. That was the only play he was really involved in but he handled blocks well on other plays. On that sack his leg got rolled up and he was carted off with an apparent knee injury. I hope he's ok, it would be horrible to lose him for the season after he had showed such potential the last two preseasons. If he's done, Glenn Foster will be needed ASAP.

John Jenkins: B+ (3.33) He came in for Bunkley and played like a veteran nose tackle all day long. If Bunkley misses extended time, I feel good based on this performance that Jenkins is a starter quality nose in the NFL starting now. He controlled the line of scrimmage masterfully, handled double teams no problem, and moved well laterally with the pocket. He had two tackles. He was a big part of why the Saints shut down the run.

Junior Galette: B (3.00) Galette was rushing off the edge the majority of the game and while he only had the one sack he provided constant pressure on Ryan. He saw more time on the field doing what he does best in this scheme and I think this scheme is already proving to be good for him. I can't wait to see how many sacks he ends up with this season, but expect double digits.

Parys Haralson: B+ (3.33) Terrific performance from the newcomer considering how little time he's spent with the team. He did what he does best, playing the run, and also added a sack of his own to the mix. He finished with 4 tackles and showed the Saints he was absolutely worth the 7th round pick. If he can stay healthy that trade will be a steal.

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