Fixing the Saints Part 4: Big-Body Brawler on the D-Line
 

As we present to you the 4th installment of our Big Easy Believer mini-series “Fixing the Saints”, we come to the one position that I believe is the most often “over-looked” problem with the Saints’ disappointing 7-9 finish in 2014.

Specifically, the lack of a “push” in the middle / interior of the Defensive Line; and even more specifically, at the spot of Defensive Tackle (a.k.a., the ‘Nose Tackle’).

Getting that “push” up the gut was what allowed the Saints and their pass rush to be successful on the defensive side of the football in 2013. However, that clearly wasn’t the case in 2014.

A lack of a true pass rush absolutely KILLED this football team in 2014. They tallied only 34 sacks, which ranked 25th overall in the League; after putting up 49 of them back in 2013 (fourth best in the NFL that year).

Fixing The Saints Part 4: Big-Body Brawler on the D-Line

Re: Fixing the Saints Part 4: Big-Body Brawler on the D-Line
 

I agree with article completely. Dt is definitely a need but not as critical as ILB, G or CB. I was happy that the article discussed more than just the NT position.

Re: Fixing the Saints Part 4: Big-Body Brawler on the D-Line
 

How about Jordan Phillips of Oklahoma? 6'6" 334 lbs Projected by CBS Sports as a 2nd round pick.

Re: Fixing the Saints Part 4: Big-Body Brawler on the D-Line
 

I want to see Aikem Hicks at NT.

Re: Fixing the Saints Part 4: Big-Body Brawler on the D-Line
 

ILB followed by a stud 3/4 NT in the draft is the way I would go.

Re: Fixing the Saints Part 4: Big-Body Brawler on the D-Line
 

This is exactly who I want 3/4 ready.

Re: Fixing the Saints Part 4: Big-Body Brawler on the D-Line
 

Suh is 6'2" and 305
Hicks is 6'4" and 345

The ideal NT is probably 6 foot but Hicks has tremendous upper body strength perfect for that position.

I'll bet Tyrunn Walker is read to be a starting DE opposite Cam Jordan.

Re: Fixing the Saints Part 4: Big-Body Brawler on the D-Line
 

John Jenkins was playing with a torn pectoral muscle, if recovered with Hicks in rotation, we'll have a good foundation...

I'd rather spend the early picks on elite linebackers, perhaps an elite cornerback...

Re: Fixing the Saints Part 4: Big-Body Brawler on the D-Line
 

I thought Hicks was very disappointing this year. He was a big part of the "no push" in the middle problem, so I dont think he is the solution.

I personally think getting major upgrades at the DT/NT position is the best way to improve the D. Gallete had a good year rushing the passer with the most pressures in the league. Cam couldn't win the 1v1 battles and isn't worth a big contract, even with that said we had zero pressure from the middle, QBs could step up all day and wait for coverage to break down.

Re: Fixing the Saints Part 4: Big-Body Brawler on the D-Line
 

Galette's pass rush numbers were stacked, and they came against reserves...

His best year was the 2013 season and he's done nothing to impress me this past season...