Team Needs 2012…New Orleans Saints
February 28th, 2012 | Author: Ben Stockwell

Primary Need: Outside Linebacker

The Saints have a new defensive regime on board this offseason with Gregg Williams having departed for St. Louis. Saints fans should be praying for old loyalties to depart with Williams as well to allow a desperately needed upgrade at outside linebacker to take effect. The likes of Scott Shanle (-15.1), JoLonn Dunbar (-26.3), and Jonathan Casillas (-11.2) were found wanting last season, and most seasons before then, combining for an overall PFF Grade of -52.6.

Dunbar and Casillas have shown some promise in the past, but is promise enough on a team ready to win it all?

There isn’t a deep pool of free agents at outside linebacker this offseason, but depending upon how they budget for an upgrade at outside linebacker, they can make a positive stride. The Vikings have seemingly been reluctant to re-sign Erin Henderson (+21.7) and the former Maryland Terrapin would be an immediate upgrade for the Saints as a three-down linebacker. He would bring ferocious downhill run defense with more than competent coverage skills which he showcased in limited action as a three-down player when his brother was ailing earlier this season.

On a smaller budget, both LeRoy Hill (+5.7) and Philip Wheeler (+9.3) have the potential to contribute positively to the Saints if they shake loose from their current squads.



Secondary Need: Defensive Tackle

... If they want big run-stuffers again, then they can’t go far wrong with Sione Pouha (+30.0) and Broderick Bunkley (+24.1). Yes, both have played a lot over the nose, but both also have extensive experience playing in a four-man line, unlike Franklin did. If they feel like rolling the dice via two interesting and potentially shrewd signings then they could look at Jason Jones (-9.3) of the Titans and Derek Landri (+22.0) of the Eagles. Jones’ move to defensive end was an unmitigated failure for Tennessee this offseason, but he has been a disruptive force at defensive tackle. The Saints are in dire need of upgrading their base pass rush to lighten the load on their linebackers during games. Landri, on the other hand, is a proven sub-defender and had a spectacular season in Philadelphia in 2011.

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