Since the 2026 NFL Draft has concluded, most of the headlines have been surrounding the weapons that the New Orleans Saints general manager Mickey Loomis and staff have been assembling to put around QB Tyler Shough. But let’s not overlook the fact that the Brandon Staley’s defense has been getting some attention as well.
It may not be flashy positions or major-name additions at cornerback or edge rusher, but the focus is there—the approach is just a little different. The Saints are prioritizing stopping
the run and reinforcing the interior defensive front, which has been a glaring weakness in recent seasons.
The additions of rookie defensive tackles, along with veteran edge defender Anfernee Jennings, will help bolster what was an ascending unit toward the end of last season.
Do not ignore the attention being given to the defense. The expectation for improvement should be on the same level as it is for the offense.
