Last season, the New Orleans Saints finished seventh in total yards allowed per game (318.2).
They were also the fourth-best team in run defense (93.5 yards allowed per game) and points allowed (19.7).
If they’re that good already in 2021, what more this season when they’ve made some upgrades?
Their defensive unit will play a vital role in their return to the playoffs.
They’re looking solid on that side of the ball, as Saints insider Nick Underhill shared.
Defense is looking strong
Cam Jordan
David Onyemata
Shy Tuttle
Marcus DavenportDemario Davis
Pete WernerMarshon Lattimore
Paulson Adebo
CJ Gardner-JohnsonTyrann Mathieu
Marcus Maye— Nick Underhill (@nick_underhill) May 2, 2022
On paper, the Saints defense looks strong in all levels.
There’s Cameron Jordan upfront who led the team in sack last year with 12.5.
Marcus Davenport added nine sacks and three forced fumbles.
In the middle, Demario Davis leads their linebackers with 70 solo tackles, seven passes defended, and three sacks.
Finally, their secondary is stacked with Marshon Lattimore and Paulson Adebo at cornerback.
They also have ballhawks C.J. Gardner-Johnson and Marcus Maye at safety.
However, their secondary rotation got better after All-Pro safety Tyrann Mathieu signed with the team.
Pass defense was their weakness last season after finishing 14th at 224.8 yards allowed per game.
Signing Mathieu and Maye gives New Orleans a well-rounded defense.
Can The Saints Defeat The Buccaneers In The Playoffs?
This collection of defensive players should help them surpass the Tampa Bay Buccaneers should they meet in the postseason.
They’ve dominated their NFC South rivals during the regular season, winning all four games since Tom Brady joined Tampa Bay.
But the Buccaneers bounced back in the 2020 Divisional Round by eliminating the Saints on the road.
The Saints are aspiring for a division title in hopes of getting a Wild Card bye.
Having a stellar unit and a defensive-minded head coach in Dennis Allen makes that goal more attainable.
NEXT: Tyrann Mathieu Has Reportedly Made His Decision