The Sinkhole: Panthers’ moves should worry Cam Newton | Q

The Sinkhole takes a weekly look at the people, themes and trends that are threatening teams’ competitive chances. On to this week’s rankings:

3. Kenny Vaccaro, S, New Orleans Saints

The Saints’ defensive regression has been mystifying, but it’s not hard to identify some of the major culprits. And few players have had as stark of a drop-off from last season as Vaccaro.

The second-year safety ranks as Pro Football Focus’ worst at the position this season after a promising rookie campaign. Vaccaro’s shortcomings were evident again Sunday, when his coverage lapse on 4th-and-10 late in the fourth quarter resulted in a Michael Crabtree 51-yard reception and new life for the 49ers.

The Saints somehow remain atop the NFC South with a 4-5 record. They should be able to take care of their work within the division, but they can’t afford the safety play to dip any lower.