Stephen Lew-Imagn Images
By Ross Jackson
Of all the positions that saw change on the New Orleans Saints’ roster, the safety room had every opportunity to go downhill.
The retirement of Tyrann Mathieu and departure of Will Harris Jr. in free agency created a large void at the position. But offseason additions have helped the team not only rebound, but perhaps even improve at safety.
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Reid, Blackmon Could Be Dynamic Safety Duo
In defensive coordinator Brandon Staley’s scheme, versatility is very important. Both Reid and Blackmon share that quality at safety. Either can crash down in the box or drop back deep in coverage. But it’s their differences that make them even stronger.
The overlap of their skill sets makes them unpredictable in Staley’s system, but their unique attributes make them dangerous.
Reid’s ability to both support the run game and read and react quickly allow him to be a factor both in coverage and against the run. Blackmon’s ball-hawking ability makes him a threat to take the football away at a high rate. With seven interceptions over the last two seasons, Blackmon should be the favorite to lead the Saints in interceptions by the season’s end.
Behind them, the team has more versatility in its depth. Howden is effective downfield, but has continued to grow as a box safety. Amadi and Burgess both present options at the team’s STAR position and the rookie Sanker checks a lot of boxes with his tackling ability and playmaking prowess.
From vulnerability to strength, the Saints’ safety room may be its strongest position group.
