New Orleans Saints Preview 2021

NFLNFL Preview 2021NFC Preview 2021NFC South Preview 2021NFCNFC SouthNew Orleans Saints

Sep 3

Our New Orleans Saints preview 2021 notes that for the fourth straight season this team won the NFC South. In the 2020 playoffs, the Saints beat the Chicago Bears 21-9 in the Divisional Round. They then lost the NFC Championship game to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers 20-30. The 2021 season will be quite different than any season in the past 15 years, as Drew Brees has retired. The choices to replace Brees are veteran Jameis Winston, formerly the starter for the Bucs, and Taysom Hill, who in 2017 signed undrafted with Green Bay, was released after the preseason, and picked up off waivers by the Saints the next day.

Saints Offense

Whoever takes over for Brees, he has some big shoes to fill. Our money is on Winston. Afterall, he’s played in 70 NFL games, has a great work ethic, and is exceptionally positive. Plus, Winston is strong and talented. There’s good news for Winston and the rush attack, as New Orleans has one of the best O-lines in the NFL.

WR Michael Thomas is a premium talent and could contribute mightily as long as he’s healthy. In 2019, Thomas was All-Pro, as he set an NFL record with 149 catches for 1725 yards and 9 touchdowns. Last year his performance suffered due to injury. WR Tre’Quan Smith starts his fourth NFL season. As he enters his contract year, the Saints will be looking for Smith to step up and be more productive. The ground game is anchored by dual threat Alvin Kamara. Last season, he led the team in rushing and receiving. Kamara ran for 932 yards and 16 scores while also recording 756 receiving yards and five TDs. Vet Dwayne Washington backs up.

New Orleans Saints Preview – Defense

Our New Orleans Saints preview 2021 notes that while the offense was averaging 30.1 PPG (5th), the defense was allowing just 21.1 PPG (T-5th). Overall, the Saints had the fourth-ranked D in the NFL. They were fifth versus the pass and fourth against the run. Additionally, New Orleans grabbed 18 picks (T-1st), recorded 45 sacks (8th), and posted a turnover differential of 9 (T-3rd). The line loses sack-master Trey Hendrickson (13.5 SCKs). However, Cameron Jordan (7.5 SCKs) and David Onyemata (6.5 SCKs), who were second and third in sacks, return. Vets and young players add depth.

The linebacking unit includes OLB Demario Davis who led the team with 119 tackles. On this side of the ball, he’s the glue and anchor. Rookie LB Paul Werner, who’s smart and tough, will likely start. The secondary is the best group on this side of the ball. Cornerback Marshon Lattimore is a premium defender. The other corner is up for grabs. Look for Malcolm Jenkins (3 INTs) to start at strong safety and Marcus Williams (3 INTs) at free safety. Both are high level defenders.

New Orleans Saints Special Teams

Punter Blake Gillikin takes over for longtime standout Thomas Morstead. Placekicker Will Lutz (57/58 XPs, 23/28 FGs) is dependable and accurate from within the 55-yard-line. Long snapper Zach Wood, in his fifth season, is top notch. Deonte Harris offers premium kick and punt returns.