The New Orleans Saints were near the bottom third of the NFL offensively in 2022. However, defensively, they put forth an elite showing.

New Orleans finished second against the pass and fifth in total defense last season. Of course, future Hall of Fame edge rusher Cam Jordan had a lot to do with that, but so did the linebacker group led by Demario Davis. 

Often overlooked, the Saints linebackers got their flowers this week as they were named the fourth-best group of its kind league-wide. 

"Demario Davis has graded above 75.0 in all five of his seasons in New Orleans, with his 82.7 overall grade good for fourth at the position in 2022. He’s also as durable as they come, as he has played the fourth-most snaps of any linebacker over the last five years. He was well up to standard in coverage last season and added a career-high nine sacks to his ledger, as well. He is the most indispensable player in New Orleans’ defense.

"The Saints may have ranked even higher had they been able to hold on to Kaden Elliss, but his departure to Atlanta likely leaves the starting role opposite Davis to third-year man Pete Werner.

"Back in 2021, Werner had a tremendous rookie season that included an elite 91.0 run-defense grade. His performance fell off a bit in 2022, and Elliss’ breakout cut into his playing time. The 2021 version of Werner would have the Saints challenging for the top spot on this list. The 2022 version is more of a serviceable contributor than a star. His play will be worth watching this coming season."-Dalton Wasserman, PFF 

Davis is a tackling machine, logging over 100 in each of his five seasons in New Orleans (has eight seasons over 100 for his career). He's also been a menace sacking the quarterback as he's logged 22.5 during his time with the Saints (36 career sacks) which includes a career-high 6.5 in 2022 and his 85.9 pass-rush grade last season was also the best he's ever had.

Werner did have a decline in every category grade-wise last season besides coverage (69.5) but his 80 tackles were 18 more than his rookie campaign plus he registered three pass breakups and two forced fumbles after drawing blanks in those categories in 2021.

The Saints could use a boost at linebacker from guys like D'Marco Jackson or even undrafted rookies Anfernee Orji and Nick Anderson. Until then, Davis and Werner are holding down the fort just fine

Saints’ defender gets major respect from national media

He’s certainly earned it.

Feature image via Stephen Lew-USA TODAY Sports