Training camp is quickly approaching. The New Orleans Saints are set to depart for Southern California on Monday, July 22. Their first practice is scheduled for Wednesday, July 24. The team will practice at the University of California through August 16th and return to New Orleans on August 19th. The New Orleans Saints, renowned for their veteran presence, typically solidify most starting positions well before training camp commences. Nonetheless, numerous compelling position battles are poised to unfold. Among these, the most compelling revolves around determining which New Orleans Saints linebackers will secure starting roles as the season opens, a decision that could significantly impact the team’s defensive performance.
Training Camp Preview: Who Will Start at Linebacker for the Saints?
Confirmed: Starting Middle Linebacker
The New Orleans Saints predominantly employ a nickel defense, a lineup where a defensive back substitutes one of the three linebackers in their 4-3 scheme on the field. This means that the competition for the linebacker positions will center primarily on two starting roles, influenced by factors including player health and matchups. Demario Davis firmly holds one of these positions, having earned consecutive Pro Bowl selections. Remarkably, despite turning 35 in January, Davis continues to deliver exceptional performances, thereby underscoring his enduring value to the team. His consistent excellence solidifies his place in the starting lineup and exemplifies his pivotal role in maintaining a dominant defense. Assuming he stays injury-free, Davis will be the starting middle linebacker for his 13th season, marking his seventh year with the New Orleans Saints.
The Second Starting Role is up for Grabs
After Davis, the Saints have a ton of depth at linebacker. The competition will boil down to two main options: Pete Werner and Willie Gay Jr.
Pete Werner
Pete Werner, who is entering his fourth year with the Saints, is the frontrunner in the competition. Despite a series of injuries since joining the team as a 2nd round pick in 2021, he managed to play and start in 16 games last season. Werner’s performance has been steady, with only half a sack, two forced fumbles, and one interception in his career. His pass coverage is not his strongest suit. However, his tackling skills are top-notch, with only four missed tackles last season. His familiarity with the defensive system and camaraderie with Demario Davis gives him a significant advantage in securing the job and a potential contract extension in 2024.
Willie Gay Jr.
Willie Gay Jr. was a big under-the-radar signing by the Saints to kick off free agency. He signed to New Orleans on a one-year deal worth a maximum of five million. This short-term contract suggests that the team is looking for immediate impact from Gay Jr. and may be evaluating his performance for a potential long-term commitment. The 2nd round pick of the 2020 draft by the Kansas City Chiefs was a key contributor in two Super Bowls. Over his Chiefs career, he amassed 150 solo tackles, four interceptions, two forced fumbles, and five sacks. Gay Jr. was a versatile piece for the Chiefs defense, playing snaps in multiple linebacker positions. With his speed, versatility, and big-play ability, he will be Werner’s most significant competition to play opposite Demario Davis.
Main Photo: [Stephen Lew] – USA Today Sports
