As well as anyone, Vilma knows the Saints defense needs to start producing in a way that resembles the far more aggressive play of past seasons. When the Saints won Super Bowl XLIV, it wasn't because they had more exceptional defensive playmakers. It was because they were playing with a much more physical style.

It's the reason, Vilma says, that for the first time in months, he's spent very little mental energy on his ongoing appeal.

"I honestly won't think about that for a while," Vilma said. "We've got work to do. We're worried about trying to find a way to get into these playoffs. If Atlanta slips up along the way, (and we get) even a chance to win the (NFC South), that's what we're trying to do."