4 Players Saints Are Rolling the Dice With in 2016
Jun 16, 2016; New Orleans, LA, USA; New Orleans Saints linebacker James Laurinaitis (53) during the final day of minicamp at the New Orleans Saints Training Facility. Mandatory Credit: Derick E. Hingle-USA TODAY Sports
#1 James Laurinaitis
Last season, one of the largest factors in the Saints porous defense was missed assignments and a failure to line up properly. These issues were the largest reason that Rob Ryan was relieved of his duties as defensive coordinator, and the meticulous Dennis Allen replaced him.
However, the Saints need an extension of the coach on the field, much as Drew Brees is an extension of Sean Payton on the offensive side of the ball.
For years, this role was filled by Jonathan Vilma, the Saints unquestioned defensive captain. Since his departure, the Saints have gone through a bit of a carousel at the middle linebacker position.
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The Saints brought in James Laurinaitis because they believe he can be this leader. It frees up one of their rising defensive stars, first-round linebacker Stephone Anthony, to be relieved of play-calling duties, and be free to make impact plays.
One of the keys to playing defense in the NFL is communication. James Laurinaitis will seek to open these avenues on defense, to put the players in the proper position to make plays, and play with the edge that has been lacking for so long.
Jun 16, 2016; New Orleans, LA, USA; New Orleans Saints linebacker James Laurinaitis (53) during the final day of minicamp at the New Orleans Saints Training Facility. Mandatory Credit: Derick E. Hingle-USA TODAY Sports
When you aren’t sure what you are doing, you play on your heels, you react to what the offense is doing. The best defenses don’t react, they play fast and aggressive, and dictate to the offense.
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With the offensive firepower of Drew Brees and company, the Saints don’t need a top 10 defense to return to the playoffs.
Laurinaitis holds the key to the kingdom for the Saints and will ultimately play the largest role in deciding their fate.
If he is able to successfully put them in position to make plays, and infuse them with a confidence and edge of good defenses, the Saints will enjoy a lot of success in 2016, more than most expect from them……