Stephen Lew-Imagn Images
By Ross Jackson
From the moment that linebacker Danny Stutsman was drafted coming out of Oklahoma, he’s become a fan favorite. The New Orleans Saints’ fourth-round selection was one of the highest ranked off-ball linebackers in the draft and has received several decorations, including being named a Consensus All-America in 2024.
Since his arrival in the Big Easy, many have wondered whether or not he could steal the role of 2021 second-round selection Pete Werner. The former Ohio State Buckeye is entering the first year of the three-year extension he received last offseason.
Taking the role of Werner seems unlikely throughout camp, however should there be any injury or need to fill in, it’s possible that could change out of necessity.
However, Stutsman is being prepared for an even larger role than that: Demario Davis’s.
“Right now, I’ve been playing Mack,” Stutsman said. “So, kind of being Demario. Whatever I need to learn, whatever I need to do, I’m willing to learn it. I think just because I’m coming into a new scheme they don’t want to overload me and throw too much at me. I’m ready for it. But I understand from a coaching staff scheme.”
Stutsman has worn the communication device in his helmet when receiving snaps with both the second team and, at times, the first.
His natural abilities to communicate, fly around the field and play sideline-to-sideline have all been eye-catching throughout camp. But learning behind Davis sets him up for an even larger and more exciting trajectory, one that could prop him up for a leadership role early in his career.
Danny Stutsman all over the place pic.twitter.com/ZU2ggQGOqz
— NOF (@nofnetwork) August 3, 2025
That’s the kind of role Stutsman aspires to hold in the league, but not before he feels he’s proven that he has earned it.
“You have to do everything you can right now every single day to earn that respect,” he said. “I’m a young guy coming in just kind of learning the ropes. And eventually, hopefully, I know it will come true, but I’ll have that same power.”
