How the Saints are already replacing Chauncey Gardner-Johnson’s production
The New Orleans Saints showed confidence in their depth at defensive back this offseason. After contract negotiation disputes, they traded slot cornerback Chauncey Gardner-Johnson to the Eagles. Gardner-Johnson had been very valuable for them over the past couple of seasons, but they had to move on. Confidence in players like Tyrann Mathieu, P.J. Williams, and […]
The New Orleans Saints showed confidence in their depth at defensive back this offseason. After contract negotiation disputes, they traded slot cornerback Chauncey Gardner-Johnson to the Eagles. Gardner-Johnson had been very valuable for them over the past couple of seasons, but they had to move on. Confidence in players like Tyrann Mathieu, P.J. Williams, and Justin Evans allowed them to make the move.
The latter of that group is already impressing. In Week 1 against the Atlanta Falcons, Evans was elite in coverage in the slot, according to Pro Football Focus.
The Falcons don't have great depth at wide receiver. That being said, Evans did exactly what the Saints needed. In fact, he exceeded expectations.
If Evans can continue this type of production, the secondary for the Saints becomes even more elite. Marshon Lattimore, Paulson Adebo, and Bradley Roby as the other cornerbacks is a very strong unit.
The biggest question mark was certainly in the slot. Clearly, Evans will be one of a handful of DBs to see time there, but his performance in the season opener was certainly exciting. He looks like he is the leader at that position for now.
Expect to see Evans on the field for the Saints plenty in the coming weeks.
Featured Image via USA TODAY-Sports
