Overlooked Saints player may beat out rookie for impactful role on New Orleans' defense in 2024

The New Orleans Saints have an active position battle happening at linebacker. It won't affect the starting group. The top three at LB for New Orleans is clearly Demario Davis, Pete Werner, and Willie Gay Jr. right now. Wouldn't expect that to change. That being said, the next spot at the position is up for […]

Adam Holt — NFL News Writer
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The New Orleans Saints have an active position battle happening at linebacker. It won't affect the starting group. The top three at LB for New Orleans is clearly Demario Davis, Pete Werner, and Willie Gay Jr. right now. Wouldn't expect that to change.

That being said, the next spot at the position is up for grabs between Anfernee Orji, Khaleke Hudson, and Jaylan Ford. Ford is a rookie who is dealing with an injury. One of the three has made a major impact during the preseason so far.

Saints LB Anfernee Orji dominating preseason play

The young linebacker played well in the preseason last year, too. His run defense is where his highlights usually come from, but he's shown growth in the pass defense side of his arsenal as well.

Orji has popped off the field during the Saints' first two exhibition matchups. He looks athletic and is making some tough tackles. His solid play has lasted since the beginning of training camp, too. It's not surprising his coaches.

Ford continues to deal with a hamstring injury. He did not play in the team's second preseason game. The rookie linebacker has dealt with at least two injuries already this offseason. 

It's tough to project how safe he is to make the 53-man to open the season. That being said, as a fifth-round pick, it's tough to explain putting that type of rookie on the practice squad – where he could get snatched up by another team. 

The Saints liked his athletic profile, but he simply has not been very available in his first pro offseason. That's extremely unfortunate. No matter what – one thing remains true. Ford is a part of a draft class, who have all dealt with an injury so far this offseason. 

Orji's impact so far in the preseason should land him a spot on the depth chart. He's done enough and can further that narrative in the Saints' final preseason game against the Tennessee Titans. 

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