There may not be a position group on the New Orleans Saints’ 2026 roster that’s seen less turnover but somehow more change than the linebacker room.
With only a total of two transactions at the position, the group is expected to look very different this year.
The only moves New Orleans made at linebacker were the signings of Kaden Elliss and Jackson Sirmon. But the loss of former starting defensive signal caller Demario Davis means that the unit will have an entirely different feel and look despite the limited number of changes.
It may sound intimidating, but if the Saints manage this transition and remain impactful in the middle of the defense, it could be a sign of the new era ahead for the defense.
The Names
- Kaden Elliss
- Pete Werner
- Danny Stutsman
- Isaiah Stalbird
- Jaylan Ford
- Jackson Sirmon
Top Storyline
What to watch during training camp is simple: without Davis, can the Saints’ linebacker corps continue its consistency as a strong overall unit? Or does the group suffer now that Davis is with the New York Jets?
The key to coming out on the right side of both of those questions will all come down to Elliss’ leadership bd the development of the backers beside him.
Otherwise, seeing the way that Elliss is deployed throughout camp should be fascinating. The linebacker has the mobility and coverage prowess to drop back and make an impact against the pass as well as the assumed ability against the run.
But what separates Elliss from the rest of his group is his ability as a pass rusher. Seeing how often the 2019 draft pick gets a chance to play to that strength off the edge or from the second level in camp will give a glimpse into the mind of defensive coordinator Brandon Staley and his plans to utilize Elliss’ eclectic talents over the year.
Most Intriguing Battle: Stutsman Season?
All eyes on the biggest battle in the linebacker room will be on Stutsman and Werner.
Some thought Werner might be a possible trade piece over the offseason, but the Saints’ restructuring of his contract solidified his spot on the roster. Despite that, the role for the top linebacker next to Elliss is likely to be a conversation over the course of camp.
Werner should be seen as the favorite and front-runner to retain his spot as one part of the team’s top linebacker tandem. However, the excitement around Stutsman has only grown since some impressive showings during his rookie season.
Throughout his first year, Stutsman had a rotation plan that led to him being deployed on the field in the third possession of each half, with a few exceptions.
This year, he’ll be competing to earn a more constant standing in the rotation.
