News: The NFL announced multiple suspensions for two Saints defenders for their roles in the team's pay-for-performance/bounty program: Defensive end Will Smith has been suspended for four games and linebacker Jonathan Vilma has been suspended for the season. Two former Saints defenders -- Anthony Hargrove and Scott Fujita -- have also been suspended. The team was likely anticipating such a move, namely with Vilma, signing linebackers Curtis Lofton, David Hawthorne and Chris Chamberlain this offseason. Head coach Sean Payton has been suspended without pay for the 2012 season, ex-defensive coordinator Gregg Williams is suspended indefinitely and interim head coach/offensive line coach Joe Vitt is suspended for six games.
Analysis: The Saints were prepared for the loss of Vilma but losing Will Smith will hurt their pass rush, which is already considered tepid even with Smith (they had 33 sacks last year). New Orleans' defense isn't half bad except for their pass rush, which is a huge question mark. Fantasy owners shouldn't draft the Saints DST this summer; instead, check them out off waivers when you need a one-week replacement or longer during the season. We could see a lot of high-scoring games in New Orleans.
News: The NFL delivered harsh punishment on the Saints coaches and organization on Wednesday as a result in their use of bounties on opponents over the past several years. But punishment for players involved in "Bountygate" remains to be delivered. Several Saints players past and present have been implicated as part of the team's pay-for-pain program that is illegal in the NFL. As far as the coaches go, head coach Sean Payton has been suspended without pay for the 2012 season, ex-defensive coordinator Gregg Williams is suspended indefinitely and offensive line coach Joe Vitt is suspended for six games. It is believed that either offensive coordinator Pete Carmichael or new Saints defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo will serve as the Saints' interim head coach. Amid all of the bounty penalties, free agent defensive tackle Brodrick Bunkley agreed to a five-year contract with the Saints.
Analysis: We suspect that multiple Saints defenders will be suspended for their roles in this issue and that would obviously impact the DST. We have learned that the Saints have been in contact with free-agent middle linebackers, which might mean the team is expecting a harsh punishment for linebacker Jonathan Vilma. With the Saints in upheaval and their DST considered good but not great, we'd actually pass on them for the 2012 season. We could see a lot of high-scoring games in New Orleans.
News: Former St. Louis Rams coach Steve Spagnuolo has agreed to take over as defensive coordinator for with the Saints. Spagnuolo, 52, was head coach in St. Louis the past three seasons and was fired in January after going 10-38 with the Rams. Before that he was defensive coordinator for the Giants, a stint that included a Super Bowl upset of the New England Patriots. Before taking over in St. Louis, Spagnuolo had top 10 defenses with the Giants in the 2007 and 2008 seasons. His 2007 defense led the NFL with 53 sacks and the 2008 unit was sixth in the league with 42. In the Giants' 2008 Super Bowl triumph over New England, their defense sacked Tom Brady five times and the Patriots, who had led the NFL with an average of 36.8 points per game, to only 14 points.
Analysis: We've been fans of Spagnuolo's for a long time, and while it didn't work out for him in St. Louis a lot of it can be attributed to offensive issues and injuries. We think there's some good young talent for Spags to mold on the Saints D-line and perhaps an upgrade or two in the secondary could put the defense over the top. Consider them a sleeper unit for 2012.
News: After taking the lead with just over a minute remaining in the fourth quarter, it appeared the New Orleans Saints were poised to advance the NFC Championship. However, San Francisco shocked the Saints for a late touchdown with nine seconds remaining and dropped a 36-32 decision to the 49ers in their NFC Divisional Playoff game on Saturday. The touchdown was one of two scores New Orleans permitted with less than three minutes left in the fourth quarter as San Francisco finished with 407 total yards of offense in the game.
Analysis: The Saints allowed a whopping 180 yards and two touchdowns to TE Vernon Davis as they had trouble forcing QB Alex Smith into mistakes. New Orleans did not post an interception, but sacked Smith four times to force two fumbles (one lost). However, the Saints were also held in check on special teams and Darren Sproles lost a fumble on a punt in the third quarter to set up a 49ers field goal. New Orleans' defense is an aging unit up front and should be viewed as a No. 2 Fantasy DST in drafts for the 2012 campaign.
News: New Orleans slowed down the Detroit offense just enough on Saturday to get the win and advance in the playoffs. The defensive unit allowed Matthew Stafford to throw for 380 yards and three scores in the game, but also picked him off twice. The Saints did keep the ground game caged up as they allowed just 32 yards to the Lions.
Analysis: The Saints face the 49ers next weekend, a team that boasts a good running attack. Fantasy owners may want to opt for other DST units in playoff leagues. As for 2012, the Saints will probably be worth a late-round pick depending on improvements they make to the unit and who they open the season against.
News: The Saints defense played pretty well against Cam Newton and the Panthers in Week 17. Newton threw for 158 yards with one touchdown, getting picked off once and sacked twice. The Saints added a fumble forced and recovered, ultimately holding the Panthers to just 17 points.
Analysis: Not a bad effort from the Saints DST, who tend to play better at home than on the road. They'll have their hands full with Matthew Stafford and the Lions in the first round of the playoffs, though. Consider other options in playoff Fantasy leagues. As for 2012, the Saints will probably be worth a late-round pick depending on improvements they make to the unit and who they open the season against.
News: The Saints DST did the job on Monday night Week 16 at home against the Falcons. The Saints DST wasn't great against Matt Ryan and the Falcons, but they kept Atlanta in check with 469 yards allowed in the 45-16 win. The Saints DST forced one turnover in the victory and that came on a fumble returned for a touchdown in the fourth quarter by Malcolm Jenkins. Jenkins took the recovery 30 yards to the house for the Saints DTD. The Saints DST failed to record even a single sack in the victory.
Analysis: The Saints DST has now had back-to-back solid efforts as they look to close out the season strong. That said, they are still allowing plenty of yards and points, they are just coming up with big plays as well. The Saints DST should continue to be opportune next week against Carolina in the regular-season finale. That said, they might be considered more of a No. 2 Fantasy option for Week 17.
News: The Saints enter Week 16 on a six-game winning streak but they will need to slow down the Falcons through the air if they are going to extend it. Atlanta ranks ninth in the league in passing, averaging nearly 256 yards per contest, and 18th in rushing. New Orleans ranks 13th and 28th against the run and pass, respectively. The Saints have recorded 31 sacks thus far with eight interceptions and three DST scores.
Analysis: The Saints gave up 481 yards of total offense when they faced the Falcons earlier in the year and recorded one interception with a sack. Atlanta has been playing well on offense in recent weeks and should be able to move the ball throw the air against New Orleans. Considering Monday's game will likely be a shootout, view the Saints DST as No. 2 Fantasy option for Week 16.
News: With the expected return of Minnesota star RB Adrian Peterson in Week 15, the New Orleans defense focused on shutting down the Vikings running game. The Saints certainly accomplished that goal and held Minnesota to just 207 total yards in a dominating 42-20 victory on Sunday. Peterson finished with 10 carries for 60 yards following a three-game absence with a high ankle sprain. "We knew coming into the game that as long as we stopped the run and forced them to actually have to throw the ball ... then we’d be successful," New Orleans DL Will Smith said.
Analysis: The Saints constantly harassed Vikings rookie QB Christian Ponder and produced four sacks -- their highest total since Week 8 at St. Louis. "We did a great job. I think the defensive line stepped up today and got some good rush pressure on the passer," New Orleans DT Sedrick Ellis said. "We were able to mix in a few blitzes today, and it was a good all-around effort by the defense." Fantasy owners should consider New Orleans a No. 2 Fantasy DST for Week 16 against Atlanta on Monday night.
News: The Saints DST has not recorded double figures in Fantasy scoring since Week 8 at St. Louis. That could change Week 15 at Minnesota. That is because the Vikings are allowing the second-most Fantasy points per game to opposing DST units on the season. Minnesota has been a turnover machine as they are tied for the most INTs thrown in the NFL with 13. The Vikings have given up double-digit Fantasy scoring games in four of the team's last five games.
Analysis: The Saints DST is an opportune unit and not an overly solid one in terms of limiting the opposition's yards and points. The team has forced just one turnover in the last two games, but that should change against the Vikings. Minnesota has been terrible this season and the Saints DST should have a field day. That said, there are better units available in Week 15 and the Saints DST should be considered just a No. 2 Fantasy unit.
News: The Saints DST had a quiet game Sunday at Tennessee in Week 14. The Saints had no turnovers but two sacks in a 22-17 victory. On special teams, Darren Sproles had two kickoff returns for 42 yards and three punt returns for 18 yards.
Analysis: The Saints DST should rebound with a solid performance in Week 15 at Minnesota. Consider the Saints a solid sleeper DST against the Vikings.
News: New Orleans has won its past two games handily, but the team's pass defense has become a concern heading into Week 14 against Tennessee. In the Saints past two games, they have allowed both Giants QB Eli Manning and Detroit QB Matt Stafford to throw for more than 400 yards. New Orleans is now ranked 30th in the NFL in pass defense (264.2 yards per game), but draws a favorable matchup on Sunday versus Titans QB Matt Hasselbeck, who has failed to reach 200 passing yards in his past three games.
Analysis: With Hasselbeck struggling, Tennessee could rely heavily on rejuvenated RB Chris Johnson, who has gained at least 130 rushing yards in three of his past four outings. Johnson will face a Saints' defense that has given up at least five yards a carry on rushes to the outside, according to NFLGSIS.com. “You have to try to run a lot of misdirections,” Johnson said. “You have to catch them in the right play when they blitz.” New Orleans has also generated just six sacks since Week 9. Consider the Saints a high-end No. 2 Fantasy DST for Week 14.
News: The Saints defense gave up a ton of yards in Week 13 but were able to limit the Lions points-wise. They allowed 466 yards of total offense, including 408 passing to QB Matthew Stafford, in the 31-17 win. DB Tracy Porter picked Stafford off once and New Orleans was able sack him three times.
Analysis: New Orleans continues to struggle on the defensive side of the ball but their offense has been able to bail them out more times then not. They now have 25 sacks on the year with seven interceptions, but because they keep yielding a ton of yardage on a weekly basis, they are not the best option in Fantasy. Consider the Saints DST as more of a No. 2 Fantasy option for Week 14 against the Titans.
News: The Saints' secondary will have their hands full when they host the Lions in Week 13. WR Calvin Johnson has racked up over 1,000 yards through 11 games and leads the NFL with 12 touchdowns while QB Matthew Stafford is averaging nearly 284 yards passing per contest. Detroit ranks sixth in the NFL in passing and 22nd in rushing while New Orleans ranks 17th and 27th against the run and pass, respectively. The Saints have recorded 22 sacks thus far with six interceptions and three DST scores.
Analysis: The Saints enters Monday night on a three-game winning streak but those victories have more to do with their offense than defense. Teams have been able to throw against them all season long, and it looks as though that trend will continue in Week 13. This matchup will likely be a shootout so consider the Saints DST as more of a No. 2 Fantasy option against the pass-happy Lions.
News: The Saints defense had a hard time slowing down the Giants in Week 12 but luckily their offense was able to put up some points. They gave up 465 yards of total offense, including 392 through the air. But QB Drew Brees was able to total five touchdowns to lead New Orleans to the 49-24 win. Despite throwing all over the Saints, New York was held to just 73 yards on the ground. LB Will Herring was also able to pick off QB Eli Manning once and DL Will Smith recorded a sack, giving him 5.5 on the year.
Analysis: The Saints showed some improvement in their run defense on Monday night but still had a hard time stopping the pass. While some of those yards were gained in mop-up time, their secondary will have to improve if they plan on making it deep into the playoffs. Luckily their offense can outscore most teams on any given night, but that does not help their value in Fantasy. With the Lions up next on the schedule, consider the Saints DST as more of a No. 2 Fantasy option for Week 13.
News: The Saints will be going up against a Giants team in Week 12 that has not run the ball that well this season. New York ranks 31st in the league in rushing, putting up under 84 yards per game, but sport the fifth-best passing game. New Orleans ranks 19th in the NFL in both run and pass defense. The Saints have recorded 21 sacks thus far with five interceptions and three DST scores.
Analysis: The Saints have allowed 30-plus points just three times so far this season and are coming off a bye, which gave their defense some much-needed rest. Conversely, the Giants have lost two hard-found games in a row and have not put up more than 31 points this year. This game will likely be decided in the trenches, which could favor New Orleans, unless they can outscore New York. Consider the Saints DST as a low-end No. 1/high-end No. 2 Fantasy option for Week 12.
News: The Saints defense was hardly at its best Week 10 at Atlanta, but it managed to limit the Falcons to only 23 points despite giving up a season-high 481 yards. The Saints forced only one turnover on the day -- an interception by LB Scott Shanle -- but they did have two sacks.
Analysis: The Saints tend to give up their share of yards and points, but they have enough playmakers on defense that the Saints DST can be a relevant Fantasy unit at times. You wouldn't necessarily have wanted to start it against a strong offensive team like the Falcons, though. The Saints are on bye in Week 11 before hosting the Giants in Week 12.
News: The Saints defense has some momentum heading into Week 10 at division rival Atlanta, having allowed an average of 16.0 points over its last three games. But it could be without some key contributors against the league's 14th-ranked offense. Not only did LB Jonathan Vilma miss last week's game against the Buccaneers with a sore left knee, but starting cornerback Tracy Porter (neck) and nickel back Patrick Robinson (stomach) were both held out of practice Wednesday. Whether or not the two play Sunday, the Saints secondary figures to be at less than 100 percent. "I'm optimistic about Tracy. We'll see where Patrick's at," coach Sean Payton said.
Analysis: The Falcons haven't been a particularly good or bad matchup for opposing DSTs this year. They gave up some sacks early in the year but have since ironed out the kinks on their offensive line. The Saints DST may have a knack for big plays, having scored a touchdown in both Week 7 and Week 8, but it's not a particularly reliable unit in Fantasy. Its success over the last three weeks has been largely the result of favorable matchups. Because the Falcons offense is capable of putting up some points, you should probably avoid the middle-of-the-road Saints DST this week.
News: The Saints totaled one sack of Josh Freeman despite blitzing him plenty, forcing two fumbles (none recovered) of the Bucs in Week 9. Tampa Bay scored 16 points and had 365 total net yards of offense.
Analysis: Not exactly a booming week for the DST. It doesn't stand to get much better when they take on the Falcons in Atlanta in Week 10. Consider other options before going with the Saints defense in that game.
News: After getting embarrassed by the winless Rams in Week 8, the Saints return to the Superdome in Week 9 to take on division rival Tampa Bay. The Bucs have averaged 100 rush yards per game on the year and will welcome back first-string rusher LeGarrette Blount for this game. They'll also contend with Josh Freeman, who's averaging 246 pass yards per game but has connected for 255 and 303 yards through the air in his last two against the Saints with two touchdowns and no interceptions in each game.
Analysis: This won't be a cakewalk for the Saints defense. Freeman said earlier this week that he's used to the Saints' blitz-heavy defense and knows how to beat it. That's been evident in his last two matchups against them, both Bucs wins. We wouldn't call the Saints DST a solid starting unit for Week 9 -- consider other options, such as the Raiders, Bengals and Chiefs -- for use instead.
News: The Saints didn't have the dominant defensive performance expected of them at St. Louis in Week 8. Instead, they allowed 31 points to the league's lowest-scoring offense, giving up 323 total yards. The Saints defense did score a touchdown, though, on a fumble recovery by Jonathan Vilma in the fourth quarter. It also had four sacks, including two by Will Smith.
Analysis: The Saints DST was coming off a season-best performance against the Colts and appeared poised to top it against the low-scoring Rams. But early mistakes caused the game to spiral out of control and the Rams to score a season-high 31 points. The Saints still got enough big plays on defense for the DST to have a respectable performance, so you can continue to think of it as a borderline No. 1 Fantasy unit against the Buccaneers in Week 9.
News: The Saints allowed a season-low seven points on a season-low 252 yards to the visiting Colts in Week 7, and LB Jonathan Vilma thinks they can continue to thrive Week 8 at St. Louis based on the improvements they've made closing in on the ball and forcing turnovers. "We can’t be a one-hit wonder and live off of what happened against Indy," he said. "We have to keep producing those turnovers. I know right now we’re at the bottom of the league in takeaways. We definitely still have to improve on it." Of course, it helps that they're facing the team that ranks dead last in scoring, averaging 9.3 points per game.
Analysis: The Rams have been the best matchup for opposing DSTs this season, giving up 15.8 Fantasy points per game, so you can bank on the Saints DST having another big performance in Fantasy, especially since backup QB A.J. Feeley will most likely be starting again with Sam Bradford nursing a high ankle sprain. If the Saints are aiming to create more turnovers than usual, even better. The Saints DST isn't necessarily a top Fantasy unit, but it's certainly competent enough to take advantage of matchups like this one. Keep it active in all leagues.
News: The Saints defense did a solid job of limiting the Colts in Week 7. New Orleans allowed just 252 yards of total offense in the 62-7 win. Along with recording one sack, DB Leigh Torrence picked off QB Curtis Painter in the fourth quarter and returned it 42 yards for a touchdown. It was the Saints' first score on defense this season.
Analysis: The Saints had a solid bounce-back performance on Sunday after losing to Tampa Bay the week before and provided Fantasy owners with a nice boost. While New Orleans is not known for their defense, their DST can be a viable option depending on the matchup. With the Rams on the schedule for Week 8, feel free to keep the Saints DST active in the majority of Fantasy leagues.
News: After allowing 420 yards of total offense a week ago, the Saints defense will be looking to bounce back in Week 7 against the Colts. Indianapolis ranks 28th in the league in both passing and rushing offense while New Orleans ranks 19th against the pass, and 14th in run defense. The Saints have recorded 14 sacks thus far with three sacks and a special teams touchdown.
Analysis: The Saints got embarrassed by the Buccaneers in Week 6 so expect them to want to make a statement against the Colts on Sunday. The Peyton-Manning-less offense has struggled overall and has yet to score over 24 points in a game. While New Orleans is better known for its offense, their defense has looked good in spurts and can cause some turnovers. Consider the Saints DST as a No. 1 Fantasy option for Week 7.
News: The Saints DST surrendered 26 points on 420 yards of total offense in Week 6 against the Buccaneers. The unit allowed 303 of those yards in through the air, including a long 65-yard touchdown pass in the second quarter. New Orleans also gave up 117 yards on the ground and were unable to slow down Earnest Graham. The unit did not force any turnovers in the 26-20 loss and also did not register a sack.
Analysis: The Saints defense played terrible on Sunday afternoon and let the Buccaneers move the ball all over the field. The unit could not stop the run or pass and hardly put any pressure on Josh Freeman the entire game. However, New Orleans will now look to rebound with the struggling Colts heading to town in Week 7. While Indianapolis has been playing better of late, look for the Saints to go after Curtis Painter hard next Sunday night. Consider the Saints DST a low-end No. 1 Fantasy option heading into Week 7.
News: Despite boasting a 4-1 record heading into Week 6 at Tampa Bay, New Orleans ranks tied for 23rd in the NFL with a lowly minus-three turnover ratio. The Saints have forced only four turnovers, including one fumble recovery. "If you start to gamble, that's when you give up big plays," New Orleans DB Malcolm Jenkins said on creating more turnovers. "You just have to take calculated gambles when we do take our shots. We've got to make the plays when they come to us. We dropped four picks in one game and three in another. Those are plays we have to make."
Analysis: The Saints have also struggled with their red-zone defense and are allowing touchdowns at an alarming 64.3 percent rate within the 20-yard line. New Orleans could certainly benefit in that category Sunday if Buccaneers star RB LeGarrette Blount is unable to play because of a knee injury. He is considered doubtful for the game. Tampa Bay is reeling from a 42-point loss at San Francisco in Week 5 and QB Josh Freeman has been picked off six times in five games this year. Consider the Saints a low-end No. 1 Fantasy DST for Week 6.
News: Panthers rookie QB Cam Newton accounted for three touchdowns Week 5, but the Saints stopped him on the final drive of the game to preserve a 30-27 win. Carolina totaled 381 yards, including 162 on the ground. The New Orleans defense managed one turnover -- an interception on the first play of the game -- and one sack.
Analysis: We expected the Saints would have some struggles in Week 5 despite Newton being a rookie QB. He has broken the mold of how a rookie QB should play, so this wasn't going to be as easy of a matchup as it was in Week 4, when the Saints dominated Jaguars rookie QB Blaine Gabbert. The Saints will get back to work in Week 6 against NFC South foe Tampa Bay. Consider the Saints DST a low-end Fantasy start.
News: The Saints defense gets the task in Week 5 of slowing down the Panthers offense, which is led by rookie sensation Cam Newton. Thanks to Newton's surprising start, the Panthers rank third in total offense (440.0 ypg) and are averaging 22.2 points per week. The Saints defense is yielding 348 yards and 24.5 points per game.
Analysis: The Saints defense is coming off a pretty impressive performance in Week 4 against a rookie QB in Blaine Gabbert. However, Newton is proving to be in a different class of rookie QBs, so New Orleans might struggle to post similar results in Week 5. We expect defensive coordinator Gregg Williams to blitz Newton and try to rattle his cage, but the Saints DST might be more of a low-end starting option in Week 5 just because Newton has surprised before when he was expected to struggle.
News: The Saints defense sacked Jaguars rookie QB Blaine Gabbert three times and held the Jaguars to 274 yards offense in a 23-10 win in Week 4. The Saints allowed the Jaguars 104 yards rushing, 22 in the first half. They also forced one interception. “We felt confident about our rush defense,” Saints DE Will Smith said.
Analysis: The Saints entered Week 4 as a statistically bad team defensively, but we figured they would pin their ears back against a rookie QB who was making his second career start and they didn't disappoint. It also helped that the defense got CB Terry Porter and LB Jonathan Vilma back from injuries. In Week 5, however, the Saints play a productive Panthers offense led by rookie QB Cam Newton. Although it is another rookie QB on the docket, consider the Saints DST a low-end Fantasy option for Week 5.
News: The Saints defense hasn't exactly been the reason the team is 2-1 heading into Week 4 against the Jaguars. The Saints rank 30th in scoring defense (29.3 ppg) and 21st in total defense (372.7 ypg). But the team could finally catch a break as Jacksonville rookie QB Blaine Gabbert will be making just his second career start on Sunday. The Jaguars have the fifth-worst total offense (261 ypg) and second-worst scoring offense (9.7 ppg) in the NFL.
Analysis: The Saints don't have very good stats from a defensive standpoint because they have faced two of the best offenses -- Green Bay and Houston -- through three games. However, they faced an average offense in Week 2 against Chicago and dominated, so they might be able to have similar success in Week 4 against Jacksonville. You know defensive coordinator Gregg Williams will want to get after a rookie QB. This is a week you have to consider starting the Saints DST.
News: The Saints defense, which had performed well against the run this season, limited the red-hot RB Ben Tate to 82 yards on the ground against the Texans in Week 3. Unfortunately, the Texans still burned the Saints through the air. In all, the Saints gave up 33 points on 473 yards. They did record two sacks and one interception, though.
Analysis: The Saints DST has some playmakers that can make it an effective Fantasy unit from time to time, but it's one of those units that you should start or sit based on the matchups. Fortunately, the Saints DST has an ideal matchup against the Jaguars and rookie QB Blaine Gabbert at Jacksonville in Week 4, so plan on getting it active in all Fantasy formats.
News: The Saints defense, which limited the visiting Bears to just 60 yards on the ground in Week 12, including 17 after their first two carries, will need to demonstrate the same toughness in Week 3 against a Texans team that ranks fifth in rushing offense, averaging 152.5 yards a game. The Saints saw firsthand what Houston's running game is capable of doing when the Texans piled up 208 yards on the ground in a game against them this preseason, reports The Sports Xchange. "You do look at the preseason games," coach Sean Payton said about the 27-14 loss to the Texans on Aug. 19. "You look at that ... and look, that is not a pretty film. That wasn't really good."
Analysis: Of course, the Saints might not see much of Arian Foster, who is working his way back from a hamstring injury, but clearly the Texans haven't missed a beat with Ben Tate carrying the load. The good news is pass-rushing DE Will Smith will be back after missing two games because of a suspension, so if the Saints DST manages to slow the run, it'll have a plan for limiting QB Matt Schaub as well. Though the unit gave up big numbers to the Packers offense in Week 1, it rebounded against a competent Bears offense in Week 2, recording six sacks and limiting the opposition to 13 points. As far as offensive firepower goes, the Texans probably rank closer to the Packers than the Bears. Though the Saints DST is plenty capable in Fantasy, you wouldn't want to use it as more than a No. 2 option this week.
News: New Orleans defense beat up on Jay Cutler with six sacks, and the Saints defeated the Chicago Bears, 30-13, on Sunday. Facing heavy blitzing and without injured receiver Roy Williams, Cutler passed for 244 yards and a score, but completed only 42 percent of his passes and fumbled once. Roman Harper and Junior Gallette each had two sacks. The Saints also allowed only 60 yards on the ground, and 12 of those yards came on Jay Cutler's scramble.
Analysis: The Saints' defense bounced back from a difficult outing at Green Bay, where they yielded five touchdowns and missed a slew of tackles in a 42-34 season-opening loss. They brought relentless pressure against a Bears offensive line that started the game without injured guard Lance Louis and then lost Carimi, their other starting guard, to a right knee injury. This is the kind of potential we know the Saints defense has. However, they are going to face a very good offensive team in Houston in Week 3, so the Saints DST is a low-end Fantasy start.
News: The Saints defense gave up 42 points, six touchdowns and 399 yards in a Week 1 loss to the Packers. The challenge doesn't get any easier in Week 2 when they face another NFC contender in the Bears, who racked up 377 yards, three touchdowns and 30 points in a Week 1 win against the Falcons.
Analysis: To make matters worse for the Saints defense they could be down DB Tracy Porter and DB Roman Harper due to injuries on Sunday. The Saints DST is aided by the fact they had a strong kick and punt return game, but they are still considered a low-end Fantasy start for Week 2.
News: New Orleans accomplished a lowly feat in its season opener Thursday that it did not experience once during the regular season in 2010. The Saints surrendered 40 points for the first time since 2009 in a 42-34 loss to Green Bay in Week 1. New Orleans trailed the entire game as it allowed three passing touchdowns from Packers QB Aaron Rodgers in the first quarter. Part of the reason Green Bay was able to rack up 399 total yards was the Saints' defense inability to make key third-down stops. The Packers were 8 of 12 on third-down conversions. “We pride ourselves on getting the offense off the field on third down, but we didn’t do a good job of that today,” LB Jonathan Vilma said.
Analysis: The Saints' performance wasn't all negative as the club's special teams unit shined behind new arrival Darren Sproles. The diminutive runner, who signed with New Orleans during the offseason, accounted for 92 yards and a touchdown on two punt returns. Sproles also racked up 76 yards on a pair of kick returns as he seemingly proved the Saints made the right decision to trade disappointing RB Reggie Bush in the offseason. New Orleans didn't pick off a pass Thursday and managed just two sacks. Fantasy owners should consider the Saints a No. 2 Fantasy DST for Week 2 against Chicago.
News: A year after being exploited in a first-round playoff loss to Seattle, New Orleans is focused on improving its rush defense in hopes of returning to the postseason. Engineered by QB Drew Brees, the Saints' offense has been outstanding, including during its Super Bowl title run in 2009. However, the defense finished a subpar 16th in the NFL against the rush last season and opens with a solid Green Bay attack in Week 1 on Thursday night.
Analysis: New Orleans did rank fourth overall in team defense last season thanks to a solid secondary that includes Roman Harper, the only safety in team history to be selected to two consecutive Pro Bowls. The matchup against the Packers poses a formidable task for the Saints' revamped run defense as it attempts to slow RB Ryan Grant and James Starks. Consider the Saints a low-end No. 2 Fantasy DST in the possible shootout.
News: The New Orleans Saints look like they're ready to run. They also hope their defense is better equipped to stop the run. For New Orleans, improving in those areas while maintaining its already exceptional passing attack and pass defense could be the key to returning to the Super Bowl for the second time in three seasons. Under defensive coordinator Gregg Williams last season, the Saints ranked fourth in the NFL in yards allowed per game. That was largely because of their fourth-ranked pass defense. Their run defense ranked 16th and endured its lowest moment when Marshawn Lynch broke off a tackle-breaking, 67-yard scoring run that salted away Seattle's upset over New Orleans in the first-round of last season's playoffs. The Saints responded by giving Sedrick Ellis more help on the interior defensive line in the form of free agents Shaun Rogers (6-foot-4, 350 pounds) and Aubrayo Franklin (6-1, 317). New Orleans also added depth at defensive end by using their top draft choice on former California star Cameron Jordan (6-4, 287). "We're going to look different getting off the bus," Williams said. "You've got bigger people. We have to get those bigger people to play with the same tenacity that our smaller people have played with in the past, but we sure look different."
Analysis: The Saints hope Jordan and newly acquired veteran defensive end Turk McBride will improve their pass rush. Starting ends Will Smith and Alex Brown combined for only 7 1/2 sacks last season, and Smith could miss the first four regular season games of 2011 because of his positive 2008 test for a banned diuretic. His suspension has been tied up on appeal and in the courts, but is expected to be served this season. There will be less pressure on the defense, of course, if the Saints' keep living up to their reputation as one of the premier offenses in the NFL. Helping the Saints DST in Fantasy is the addition of Darren Sproles, who will replace Reggie Bush as the team's top special teams player. Look to the Saints DST as a viable Fantasy option on Draft Day.
News: New Orleans entered the Wild Card game on Saturday with a lot of confidence. So much that defensive coordinator Gregg Williams said the best was still ahead of them. Apparently the Seahawks didn't get that memo as they picked apart the Saints secondary. Seattle QB Matt Hasselbeck threw for 272 yards and four touchdowns -- a career high for him in the playoffs. New Orleans entered the game allowing 193.9 passing yards per contest, but the banged up veteran was able to find open receivers the whole game. After the Saints offense scored, Williams defense needed a big stop. Instead, they allowed RB Marshawn Lynch to rumble and stiff arm his way 67 yards for score (the longest score of his career). On the second-down carry, it seemed as if Lynch would be wrapped up by DB Tracy Porter, but Lynch would push Porter to the ground with a mean stiff arm. The Saints would give up a total of 421 yards in the 41-36 loss. They would sack Hasselbeck once and pick him off on his third throw of the game.
Analysis: That 41 points was the most allowed by the Saints defense since 2007. No one expected this kind of performance by the Seahawks, as the Saints were pegged as one of the better defenses for playoff Fantasy leagues. Now they are out of it and owners are shocked. This is definitely not the way New Orleans wanted to end the season, but unfortunately for them it is done. Heading into 2011, Fantasy owners should view the Saints as a viable option and a defense with something to prove.
News: Saints defensive coordinator Gregg Williams on the defense: "I still believe that our best is in front of us. We have made a lot of improvements since I have been here, but I still think we can make a lot more improvements and we do need to make those improvements to play in this playoff tournament this year.” The first chance to build on the 2010 season will be against the Seahawks in Saturday's Wildcard matchup.
Analysis: The Saints sure have the best draw of all the defenses participating in Wildcard weekend, taking on an under-achieving Seahawk team that barely made the playoffs with a 7-9 record. The Saints DST should be considered a viable option in Fantasy playoff challenges simply based on the opponent's lack of explosion and New Orleans' experience in the playoffs.
News: The Saints DST could not stop Bucs QB Josh Freeman when it counted most in the Week 17 loss to Tampa Bay. The DST allowed 317 yards of total offense in the game and forced two turnovers in a hardfought loss. The team also sacked Freeman three times.
Analysis: The Saints DST has been an interesting unit for weeks now. They will put up a huge Fantasy performance one week and then consistently be mediocre for a stretch. They have had another mediocre stretch to close out the regular season. That said, we expect them to regroup for the playoffs and they generally remain a low-end No. 1 Fantasy group.
News: When Sean Payton's normally prolific offense sputters, there is now a very real possibility that the Saints' defense will be sound enough to bail them out. Last season during their Super Bowl campaign the defense was a bend-don't-break unit, relying on takeaways to stop opposing teams. Not anymore. They're shutting people down. "They're really playing grade-A football across the board," said Tampa Bay coach Raheem Morris, who's Buccaneers will test New Orleans in Week 17. "Defensive coordinator Gregg Williams does a great job with scheme. He does a great job with putting his players in position to make plays. They're tackling better, even better this year than last year and they're just playing harder. That's going to make them a better defense all around. That's what they've done. That's what they've become."
Analysis: New Orleans' defense was the main reason the Saints were able to overcome two Drew Brees fourth-quarter interceptions -- including one returned for a touchdown -- against NFC leading Atlanta on Monday night, and still rally for a playoff-clinching 17-14 victory. The Saints were a different team against Atlanta than in their first meeting. The Saints allowed the Falcons only 215 total yards and seven points on Monday; in their meeting in Week 3, Atlanta racked up 417 total yards, including 202 on the ground. One reason for the change is that the Saints are finally healthy after being banged up earlier in the year. This season, takeaways are down significantly. New Orleans has 23 (14 fumbles, nine interceptions) heading into its regular season finale at home against Tampa Bay. Yet the defense's overall ranking is up to fifth, with 305.5 yards allowed per game, 52 less than last season. They will be facing a team Week 17 still technically alive in the playoff hunt, so look to the Saints DST as a low-end No. 1 Fantasy option since they should have a challenge on their hands.
News: The Saints defense held the Falcons to 14 points on just 215 yards of total offense in Week 16. New Orleans did a great job stopping Michael Turner, who was held to just 48 yards rushing and fumbled inside the 1-yard line. Jeff Charleston and Marvin Mitchell knocked the ball free, and Mitchell fell on it to take sure points off the board for the Falcons. The unit forced two turnovers in 17-14 victory and only allowed Atlanta to convert on 3 of 12 third-down conversions. The Saints defense also forced one sack in the contest.
Analysis: New Orleans' defense played one of it's best games of the season on Monday. In what many were predicting would be a offensive shootout turned into a defensive struggle with the Saints prevailing. The unit held Matt Ryan and the Falcons offense in check all game long and only surrendered one offensive touchdown. Now the Saints will look to build off of their Week 16 performance in the season finale against the Buccaneers. The unit allowed just six points in the their first meeting this season on 277 yards of total offense. Consider the Saints a low-end No.1 Fantasy DST heading into Week 17.
News: The Saints defense has allowed an average of 25 points per game over their last four contests and will face a Falcons offense in Week 16 that has done some scoring of their own. Atlanta ranks seven and 14th in the NFL in rushing and passing, respectively, and have scored an average of just over 28 points in their last four games. New Orleans sports the fourth-best passes defense in the league, but rank 20th against the run.
Analysis: New Orleans got steamrolled for 208 yards on the ground last week and could get into a shootout with Atlanta on Sunday. When the division foes met earlier in the year, the Falcons scored 27 points and put up 417 total yards of offense on the Saints. RB Michael Turner and QB Matt Ryan could be in for huge days in Week 16 so consider the Saints DST as a No. 2 Fantasy option for the matchup.
News: The Saints defense was run over Sunday at Baltimore in Week 15. Baltimore ran for 208 yards in a 30-24 victory, and the Saints only had three sacks and no turnovers. On special teams, Reggie Bush had one kickoff return for 32 yards and one punt return for 9 yards. Pierre Thomas also had five kickoff returns for 110 yards.
Analysis: The Saints DST will look to rebound in Week 16 at Atlanta, but it's not an easy matchup. Consider the Saints DST a No. 2 Fantasy option against the Falcons. Atlanta beat New Orleans 27-24 in overtime in Week 3.
News: The Saints avoided a third-straight shootout in Week 14 against the Rams thanks to their defense, which held St. Louis to 13 points, and look for similar results heading into their Week 15 matchup at Baltimore. Although, the Ravens are no pushover. Baltimore is averaging 22.6 points per game and have scored at least 20 points in seven of its last nine games. In fact, in their six home games this season, Baltimore has won five and is averaging 24.2 points per game.
Analysis: The strength of the Saints defense in 2010 has been its secondary. New Orleans might just have nine interceptions, but it has given up a league-low eight passing touchdowns and rank fifth in pass defense (198.6 ypg). Ravens QB Joe Flacco has just one interception to 11 passing touchdowns in six home games this season, but the Ravens might want to lean on the running tandem of Ray Rice and Willis McGahee to help open up the passing lanes. This could be another shootout for New Orleans, so the Saints DST is at best a low-end No. 1 option for Week 15.
News: The Saints defense played well in Week 14 against the Rams. New Orleans' defense allowed 13 points on 327 yards of total offense in the 31-13 victory. The unit even got involved in the scoring effort late in the second quarter. With the Rams driving deep in Saints territory, Malcolm Jenkins stepped in front of a Sam Bradford pass and took it 96 yards for a touchdown. Jenkins also picked off Bradford later in the game as the Saints forced three total turnovers in the victory. New Orleans also racked up three sacks and held the Rams to 1 of 9 on third downs in the contest.
Analysis: New Orleans defense played well on Sunday and even got in on the fun by scoring their second defensive touchdown of the season. The unit has now held five of their past eight opponents under 20 points and will look to keep the momentum going when they head out to Baltimore to face the Ravens in Week 15. Consider the Saints DST a low-end No. 1 Fantasy unit next Sunday against the Ravens.
News: The Saints defense will be looking to shut down rookie Sam Bradford and the St. Louis Rams in Week 14. Last week the Saints defense allowed 27 points on 313 total yards of offense against the Bengals while recording three sacks. St.Louis enters Sunday's matchup ranked 26th in total offense, averaging 19.3 points a game. The Saints DST is ranked 14th, in terms of Fantasy points and have racked up 23 sacks on the season and forced 18 turnovers.
Analysis: The Saints haven't been creating as many turnovers this season compared to last year, but have still be very good defense. The unit enters Week 14 ranked ninth in total defense and are only allowing an average of 18.9 points per game. They have held four of their past seven opponents under 20 points and should be able to contain the Rams pedestrian offense. Consider the Saints a No. 1 Fantasy DST against St. Louis.
News: The Bengals' late-rally Week 13 against the Saints fell just a little bit short as Drew Brees hit Marques Colston for a 3-yard score with 31 seconds left that sent New Orleans to a fifth straight win. The Saints defense was giving Cincinnati trouble for most of the game. The Bengals managed a pair of field goals and only 127 yards in the first half. They didn't get their first touchdown until late in the third quarter. But the Bengals then produced 18 points in the fourth quarter and took a 30-27 lead on a Clint Stitser 47-yard field goal with 4:25 to play before Brees rallied the Saints for a 34-30 win. The Bengals finished with 311 yards, while the Saints got three sacks and no turnovers.
Analysis: The Saints got back safety Darren Sharper in Week 13 and it showed on defense for a half. But then the Bengals finally broke through in the second half and the Saints had trouble slowing down the offense. It ended up going from a great week for the Saints defense to a not-so great outing. The Saints defense does have the potential to finish the season strong, so it's not time to give up on the Saints DST in Fantasy. Consider them a viable Fantasy start heading into Week 14, when New Orleans plays St. Louis.
News: The Saints head into Week 13 against the Bengals expecting to get a boost on defense with the return of safety Darren Sharper, who has missed the last two games with a strained hamstring. It's just in time to face an offense that continues to struggle. The Bengals' offense hit rock bottom in Week 12 against the Jets, totaling a season-low 163 yards and increasing its turnover total to 25 -- second-most in the AFC -- with three more giveaways. New Orleans ranks 15th in turnovers, netting 18 (seven interceptions) in 11 games.
Analysis: New Orleans was much better at creating turnovers in 2009 thanks to a healthy Sharper, who had nine interceptions last season. Sharper has played just three games this season due to injury, so he hasn't been the same defensive force for New Orleans. The Saints have played better on defense lately, holding opponents to 20 or less points in four of their last six games. Consider starting the Saints DST in Week 13 since Cincinnati is struggling on offense.
News: The Saints defense saved the game in Week 12 at Dallas on Thanksgiving Day when CB Malcolm Jenkins stripped Roy E. Williams in the fourth quarter and recovered a fumble, which was one of two fumble recoveries in the game. The Saints DST also had one interception and one sack in the 30-27 victory. DE Will Smith had the sack and the interception. On special teams, Courtney Roby had one kickoff return for 22 yards.
Analysis: The Saints DST continues to play at a high level and is worth using in all leagues. Consider the Saints DST a No. 1 option in Week 13 against the Bengals.
News: New Orleans entered Week 11 with the best pass defense in the NFL. Seattle QB Matt Hasselbeck threw for 366 yards and a touchdown on them -- the first quarterback they've allowed to go over 300 yards on them. They did hold the running game to a total of 58 yards though, as they would win the game 34-19. They would also force two Marshawn Lynch fumbles, recovering both, ending potential scoring drives for Seattle. The Saints did not record a sack, but would put some pressure on Hasselbeck. DL Will Smith got in the backfield on Sunday and disrupted what was designed as a flea-flicker and Justin Forsett would fall to the ground for a loss, saving a potential fumble. The Seahawks tested the Saints secondary early -- targeting Jabari Greer -- as they would connect on a 68 and 42 yard bombs on him. Hasselbeck threw for 125 yards in the first quarter; the Saints had been allowing a total of 166 passing yards per game.
Analysis: New Orleans has a short week as they play Dallas on Thanksgiving. The Cowboys offense is clicking recently -- since they fired Wade Phillips as head coach -- so they could pose some problems in Week 12. Jon Kitna is also coming off a four touchdown game, so the Saints front seven will have to do a better job getting pressure on the quarterback. Dallas' offense has been averaging 356 total yards per game, which makes for a tough matchup. Fantasy owners should consider their options for Week 12, but the Saints are definitely not the worst DST option to use -- especially if Reggie Bush returns for the game.
News: The New Orleans Saints have the No. 1 ranked pass defense in the league this year and has a top-five overall defense. “I think just the learning of the defense and the concept of the whole scheme that we have in place and guys just not making the same mistakes they had made the previous years and correcting things," DL Will Smith said. "Everyone was kind of learning on the fly. We had a good understanding of it, but they didn’t understand everything. This year carrying over, guys just improved on that and we haven’t made mistakes.” The Saints are allowing 166.3 passing and 110.7 rushing yards per contest this season. "We need to focus on that and focus on getting better each and every week and we’ll be fine," DL Alex Brown said of the team's momentum. "Consistency is not just being able to do it twice or three times. It’s more like seven or eight times.” The Saints will take this momentum into Week 11 when they host the Seahawks, a team that averages 18.4 points and 286.7 total yards of offense per game -- ranked 30th in the NFL.
Analysis: The Saints DST gets Reggie Bush back in the return game, which will be a nice bonus for Week 11. But the bottom line is New Orleans has a top-five defense, which translates well into this Fantasy week. With an offense with a banged up quarterback (Matt Hasselbeck) and mediocre running game at best, the Saints defense should swarm around the ball in Week 11. Consider him a high-end DST option for Week 11.
News:Jabari Greer's 24-yard touchdown return on an interception in the third quarter highlighted a dominant performance by the Saints defense in Week 9 against the Panthers. The Saints defense knocked out starting QB Matt Moore and RB Jonathan Stewart in the first half with injuries and the Panthers offense had trouble moving the football the rest of the game. Carolina managed just 195 yards of offense and was held to a field goal in a 34-3 loss. Greer's touchdown was also the first score for the Saints defense in 2010. New Orleans also managed four sacks and two turnovers (one fumble).
Analysis: The Saints defense has been absolutely outstanding the last two games and it's no surprise their turnaround has come after Darren Sharper came off the PUP list. He was the reason the Saints had so many defensive scores in 2009. He is definitely a game changer for the Saints. The Saints DST is starting to look like the unit that was a top five Fantasy option last season. The Saints are on a bye until Week 11 against the Seahawks, but do consider using the Saints DST in Week 11.
News: The Saints' defense has been one constant this season for New Orleans -- ranking third in total defense at 287.3 yards -- and it could be primed for a big game against Carolina's punchless offense in Week 9. The Panthers, last in the NFL in total offense at 271.0 yards and averaging 12.1 points, mustered just 201 yards in last Sunday's 20-10 loss to St. Louis. Matt Moore threw three more interceptions, bringing his total to 10 in five games, and Jonathan Stewart was held to 30 yards on 14 carries.
Analysis: Moore will face a New Orleans defense that ranks third against the pass at 178.6 yards and could get starting cornerbacks Tracy Porter (left knee) and Jabari Greer (left shoulder) back. Turning to the ground might not be the answer, as Carolina's run game -- once a major strength of the offense -- is in shambles. The Panthers could also play without RB DeAngelo Williams, who is dealing with a foot injury. The Saints held Carolina to 14 points and 251 yards in Week 4, but rookie QB Jimmy Clausen was at the helm for that game. Moore has won five of his seven home starts, so New Orleans has to be prepared. Consider the Saints DST a viable Fantasy play in Week 9.
News: The Saints defense forced key turnovers at the end of the Week 8 game against the Steelers. Late in the fourth quarter, Steelers TE Heath Miller caught a pass in the seam and broke a few tackles on his way to a 25-yard gain before Marvin Mitchell knocked the ball loose right into the hands of Darren Sharper. The Saints would go on to score a touchdown after that to go up 20-10, which would be the final margin. On the ensuing possession, the Saints sealed the victory after Leigh Torrence intercepted Ben Roethlisberger. The Saints also sacked him three times. "Aside for one drive, they didn’t get a whole lot," said DE Alex Brown. "What we were able to show is that we’ve got pretty damn good defense here as well. That’s what I think we were able to show.” The Steelers managed just 279 yards of offense on the night.
Analysis: The Saints defense buckled down when it counted most against Pittsburgh, and they did it without their top two corners -- Jabari Greer and Tracy Porter-- who missed the game with injury. Perhaps the most impressive point of the game was a series of plays in the second quarter when the Steelers had the ball and a first-and goal from the 1-yard line and the Saints stopped them on three tries to force a Jeff Reed field goal. In Week 9, the Saints look to continue their solid play against the Panthers, whose offense ranks at the bottom of the NFL, managing just 251.4 yards of offense per game. New Orleans DST should be a solid Fantasy option in Week 9.
News: The Saints defense has played well in recent weeks and they have the opportunity to do the same against the Steelers in Week 8. Pittsburgh ranks 26th in the NFL in total offense, averaging 300.7 yards per contest. However, that number should steadily rise now that Ben Roethlisberger is back under center. he has thrown for five touchdowns in his two games since returning from suspension. The Saints matchup well against the pass (3rd in the NFL) and they could get both starting corners back this week. Jabari Greer (shoulder) and Tracy Porter (knee) practiced on a limited basis on Thursday and Friday. This is the most Porter, who is listed as questionable, has practiced since sustaining his injury in Week 4 vs. Carolina. Greer, listed as doubtful, injured himself in Week 6 vs. Tampa Bay.
Analysis: The Steelers have leaned a bit more on the pass in the last two games not just because Roethlisberger is back, but starting RB Rashard Mendenhall has been dealing with a shoulder issue. Still not a single offensive player has appeared on the injury report during the week for the Steelers. With Big Ben on a roll we consider the Saints to be a bit vulnerable to the Steelers, who can move more towards a balanced running and passing attack in Week 8. We expect the Steelers to take a few deep shots to test the Saints secondary's health. Use the Saints DST only if your starting unit has a bye in Fantasy.
News: The Saints defense has played well in recent weeks and they have the opportunity to do the same against the Steelers in Week 8. Pittsburgh ranks 26th in the NFL in total offense, averaging 300.7 yards per contest. However, that number should steadily rise now that Ben Roethlisberger is back under center. he has thrown for five touchdowns in his two games since returning from suspension. The Saints matchup well against the pass (3rd in the NFL) and they could get both starting corners back this week. Jabari Greer (shoulder) and Tracy Porter (knee) practiced Thursday on a limited basis. This is the most Porter has practiced since sustaining his injury in Week 4 vs. Carolina. Greer injured himself in Week 6 vs. Tampa Bay.
Analysis: The Steelers have leaned a bit more on the pass in the last two games not just because Roethlisberger is back, but starting RB Rashard Mendenhall has been dealing with a shoulder issue. Still not a single offensive player has appeared on the injury report during the week for the Steelers. With Big Ben on a roll we consider the Saints to be a bit vulnerable to the Steelers, who can move more towards a balanced running and passing attack in Week 8. We expect the Steelers to take a few deep shots to test the Saints secondary's health. Use the Saints DST only if your starting unit has a bye in Fantasy.
News: The Saints defense didn't have much trouble containing the Browns' injury-depleted offense Week 7 in New Orleans. It was the Saints offense that was problem. QB Drew Brees threw four interceptions, helping the Browns rack up 30 points even though they had only 210 yards. The Saints didn't force any turnovers of their own, but they did record a sack.
Analysis: The Saints DST hasn't had as many big plays as it did last year, but it has delivered against weaker offenses this season and likely would have delivered against the Browns on Sunday if not for Brees' interceptions. With the Steelers coming to town in Week 8, you might want to reserve the Saints DST, but you'll want to keep it within reach. The Saints visit the 1-5 Panthers in Week 9.
News: Coming off two stellar performances at Tampa Bay and Arizona, the Saints defense may have its best matchup yet Week 7 against the Browns. The Browns already have a suspect offense, ranking 23rd with 305.8 yards per game, and will likely be without quarterbacks Jake Delhomme and Seneca Wallace, who are both dealing with high ankle sprains, and wide receivers Mohamed Massaquoi and Josh Cribbs, who are both dealing with concussions. RB Peyton Hillis is about the only offensive weapon left for the Browns, and considering the Saints defense has allowed 2.0 yards per carry over the last two weeks, he's no certainty for a big game himself.
Analysis: The Saints will be facing a quarterback in Colt McCoy who impressed last week, throwing for 281 yards and a touchdown at Pittsburgh in his first NFL start, but with offensive tackle Tony Pashos going on injured reserve with an ankle injury, the Saints should be able to keep pressure on the rookie. If that's not reason enough to like the Saints DST this week, keep in mind playmaker Darren Sharper could make his debut after missing the first six weeks recovering from knee surgery. The Saints DST hasn't made all the big plays it did last year, but it has stepped up with good matchups. This is another good one, so you'll want to treat it as a No. 1 Fantasy unit this week.
News: The Saints DST had little trouble against Tampa Bay in Week 6 as they won easily, 31-6. The Saints DST allowed just a late Micheal Spurlock touchdown catch in the fourth quarter and the two-point conversion failed. The Saints DST limited the Buccaneers to just 277 total yards of offense in the game and forced one turnover. Cadillac Williams lost a fumble. The Saints managed to pick up just one sack in the game and did not score a defensive touchdown.
Analysis: The Saints DST continues to do an admirable job at limiting points and yards but they did not really do any of the intangibles in the Week 6 win. They didn't really need to, however, to dominate the Bucs. They have been a No. 1 Fantasy DST and will continue to be considered as such for Week 7 against Cleveland.
News: The New Orleans Saints DST has been solid this season but has not made the big plays that would make them a top Fantasy option. The Saints DST is ranked 16th in the NFL in Fantasy points with four interceptions, 10 sacks and four fumbled recoveries with no defensive touchdowns. That said, they are one of only three teams among the top 16 in Fantasy without a defensive touchdown on the year and that has made for a lower total of points. The Saints play in Tampa Bay Week 5 and Tampa has not been affording opposing DSTs a large amount of Fantasy production each week.
Analysis: The Saints DST has limited points and yards in the last two games they've played and have registered seven sacks with an interception and five forced fumbles over that span. They've been playing well of late and are due for a big effort. It could come in Week 6 against a Tampa Bay team that has given up seven sacks, two interceptions, three lost fumbles and a defensive touchdown in its last two games to opposing DSTs. The defending Super Bowl champs are needing a win after losing Week 5 at Arizona and can be considered a No. 1 Fantasy DST unit for the Week 6 game.
News: The Saints defense did a solid job of slowing down the Cardinals offense in Week 5. New Orleans gave up 194 yards of total offense while holding Arizona's running game to just 41 yards. DB Jabari Greer picked off rookie QB Max Hall in the first quarter for the teams only turnover. The Saints forced two fumbles in the game but one was recovered by offensive tackle Levi Brown for a touchdown and the other bounced out of bounds. Despite their solid play, New Orleans lost to Arizona 30-20 off of two Cardinals defensive touchdowns.
Analysis: The Saints DST did their job on Sunday but their offense was not able to pick up the slack. Along with forcing two fumbles, New Orleans sacked Hall four times and defended six passes. They didn't appear to miss DB Tracy Porter too much in Week 5 but will face a feisty team in the Buccaneers in Week 6. Tampa Bay is 3-1 on the year and entered Sunday ranked 23rd and 20th in the league in passing and rushing offense, respectively. The Saints have a favorable matchup and should be viewed as a No. 1 Fantasy DST for Week 6.
News: The Saints have given up 72 points through the first four games but will face a Cardinals offense in Week 5 that has been offensively challenged of late. Arizona has scored over 20 points just once this season and will have undrafted rookie QB Max Hall making his first NFL start. New Orleans ranks 11th and 26th in the league against the pass and run, respectively, and match up well with Arizona as the Cardinals rank 29th in passing and 18th running the ball.
Analysis: The Saints are better known for their offense but have put together a decent defense that allows them to stay in games when their offense sputters. Although they will be without DB Tracy Porter, New Orleans should be able to put pressure on the rookie Hall and force him into some mistakes. The Saints have a favorable matchup and should be viewed as a No. 1 Fantasy DST for Week 5.
News: Saints coach Sean Payton said Tracy Porter had arthroscopic surgery to repair the lateral meniscus in his left knee and that the starting cornerback is expected to be sidelined three to four weeks. That's different from the torn MCL he reportedly hurt. Porter was injured on Sunday while pursing Carolina's Jimmy Clausen during a quarterback scramble. Porter left the game after the play, but then returned to the game. After practice on Wednesday, Payton said Porter wound up having surgery this week and the team re-signed cornerback Leigh Torrence. They also put safety Chris Reis on injured reserve with a shoulder injury. The good news for this defense is that when they face the Cardinals in Week 5, they'll face undrafted rookie QB Max Hall, who will make his first NFL start in the game.
Analysis: Losing Porter for several weeks will hurt, but this defense should shine against Hall and the Cardinals offense in Week 5. Keep the Saints DST active for the matchup.
News: The Saints DST held the Panthers to 14 points and 251 yards in a Week 4 win but couldn't force a single turnover out of rookie QB Jimmy Clausen. They did manage to pick up three sacks in the victory, however.
Analysis: The Saints were down to their fourth-string safety on Sunday, a fact that certainly didn't help their cause against the winless Panthers. Hopefully the DST unit can do a little better against the woeful Cardinals in Week 5, although that game is on the road. Use the Saints in all formats for that superb matchup.
News: The Saints DST will look to rebound from a Week 3 OT loss to the Falcons against another NFC South rival in Week 4, the Panthers. Carolina comes off of a four-turnover performance in a Week 3 loss to the Bengals. Rookie QB Jimmy Clausen never got into a rhythm and was responsible for three of the turnovers (one interception, two fumbles). The Saints 2009 defense led the NFL in turnovers forced and they want to get back to that. "That yardage stuff doesn't matter when you're getting the football away from the offense," defensive coordinator Gregg Williams said.
Analysis: The special teams looks for a bit of a turn around as well after K Garrett Hartley missed a game-winning field goal in overtime. The Week 4 matchup against Carolina is in the Superdome, where the Saints usually play very well, and where opposing QBs get tormented by the crowd noise. Expect all these factors to contribute to an improved showing from the defending champs, especially against a team that ranks 31st in total offense this season. Consider the Saints DST to be a superb No. 1 Fantasy option for Week 4.
News: The Saints DST did not play well in Sunday's 27-24 overtime loss against the Falcons in Week 3. The Saints had a fumble recovery and two sacks, but nothing else. Will Smith and Sedrick Ellis had the sacks, and long-snapper Jason Kyle was credited with the fumble recovery on a strange play. Thomas Morstead's punt hit Atlanta's Thomas DeCoud on the heel as it came down near the sideline and bounced straight up. Rookie TE Jimmy Graham grabbed it and, just before falling out of bounds, tossed it back to Kyle, who tapped toes on both feet down like a receiver just inside the sideline. On special teams, Lance Moore helped replace Reggie Bush (leg) with one punt return for 72 yards.
Analysis: The Saints DST will look to play better in Week 4 against Carolina, and that's a great matchup with the Panthers starting rookie QB Jimmy Clausen. Consider the Saints DST a No. 1 option in Week 4 against the Panthers.
News: The Saints DST looks to remain stingy in the points department Week 3 against Atlanta. New Orleans has limited teams to 15.5 points per game over their first two contests. Their bend but don’t break method has been enforced by creating turnovers at opportune times, including two red zone turnovers and a safety in the 25-22 win against the 49ers in Week 2. The Falcons are a more familiar opponent who gashed the Saints in 2009, averaging 25 points in two games.
Analysis: The Saints won both games against Atlanta in 2009, but both were shootouts. The Falcons are coming off a 41 point outburst against the Cardinals; they scored five touchdowns and kicked two field goals in the blowout. Because of the explosion, the Falcons offense jumped to sixth in the NFL in total yards per game (369.5). The other concern is in the Saints' return game without RB Reggie Bush (leg) active. It appears like WR Lance Moore or CB Tracy Porter will assume those duties on Sunday. Consider the Saints DST a No. 2 Fantasy option Week 3 against the Falcons.
News: The Saints DST forced four turnovers and a safety in Week 2 against the 49ers. On the first drive of the game the Alex Smith had a shotgun snap sail over his head and into the end zone, where he knocked it out of bounds for a safety. Roman Harper and Tracy Porter each picked off Alex Smith and Jonathan Vilma forced at fumble as the 49ers were knocking on the door at the New Orleans' 3-yardline late in the second quarter. The Saints DST also recovered a muffed punt return by Phillip Adams in the fourth quarter that led to a field goal. The Saints defense allowed 417 yards of total offense to the 49ers and did not record a sack in the 25-22 victory.
Analysis: The Saints defense usually gets overlooked because of the high-powered Saints offense,but but defensive coordinator Gregg Williams has his unit playing well. They have forced five turnovers so far this season. The Saints DST will face another stiff challenge in Week 3 as they face a Falcons' team that has a lot of weapons on offense. Consider them a low-end No. 1 DST heading into Week 3.
News: The Saints DST forced four turnovers in Week 2 against the 49ers. Roman Harper and Tracy Porter each picked off Alex Smith and Jonathan Vilma forced at fumble as the 49ers were knocking on the door at the New Orleans' 3-yardline late in the second quarter. The Saints DST also recovered a muffed punt return by Phillip Adams in the fourth quarter that led to a field goal. The Saints defense allowed 417 yards of total offense to the 49ers and did not record a sack in the 25-22 victory.
Analysis: The Saints defense usually gets overlooked because of the high-powered Saints offense,but but defensive coordinator Gregg Williams has his unit playing well. They have forced five turnovers so far this season. They have another stiff challenge in Week 3 as they face a Falcons' team that has a lot of weapons on offense. Consider them a low-end No. 1 DST heading into Week 3.
News: The Saints defense is looking for another strong performance heading into Week 2 at San Fransisco. New Orleans' defense allowed just 253 total yards in Week 1 while forcing one turnover and recording one sack. The Saints allowed 93 yards rushing on 23 attempts, but shut out Minnesota in the second half. The 49ers had 263 total yards of offense in Week 1 while scoring just six points.
Analysis: The Saints will be without Darren Sharper for a while, but Malcolm Jenkins showed he can fill Sharper's shoes in Week 1. New Orleans' defense usually gets over looked because of the offense, but defensive coordinator Gregg Williams has his unit playing well. While the Saints DST accounted for a lot of touchdowns last season can the unit can still be productive without the scores. Consider them a low-end DST heading into Week 2.
News: Under coach Sean Payton, the Saints have been known for winning games with their high-powered offense. In Week 1 against the Vikings, the defense did all the talking in a 14-9 win. "We're not used to 14-9 victories, but we're used to winning," said QB Drew Brees, the reigning Super Bowl MVP. "So we like the W." The Saints defense held Minnesota to 12 first downs. Minnesota QB Brett Favre completed just 15 of 27 passes for 171 yards. The Vikings totaled 253 yards and turned the ball over once on a Favre interception. New Orleans got just one sack, but shut out Minnesota in the second half. "We did a very good job of holding against the run and still taking some of the downfield throws away," Payton said.
Analysis: There was a lot of talking leading up to Week 1 about how much the Vikings would exploit the Saints secondary with Darren Sharper out of action recovering from a knee injury. But Malcolm Jenkins did his best Sharper impersonation and filled in admirably. The Saints are usually involved in a lot of shootouts, but defensive coordinator Gregg Williams still does a great job with the defense. The Saints DST got a lot of Fantasy points in 2009 because of defensive and special teams scores, but they can still be a viable option without the scores. Consider them a low-end No. 1 Fantasy option for Week 2 against the 49ers.
News: Defensive coordinator Gregg Willliams and the Saints haven't been bashful this offseason about saying they aren't planning to change their approach for Thursday night's season opener against the Vikings. Safety Darren Sharper, who has been placed on the physically unable to perform list and will not be in uniform for the rematch from the NFC Championship game, got into a Twitter feud with Vikings tight end Visanthe Shiancoe over the summer while saying that the Saints will be going after QB Brett Favre and his surgically repaired ankle. Saints coach Sean Payton defended his defense on Sunday. "I think that we play with an attitude and a swagger and a confidence level that is within the rules and I like the way we play," Payton said.
Analysis: The Super Bowl champs ranked 25th in total defense (357.8 ypg) and 20th in scoring defense (21.3 ppg) last season. They helped Fantasy owners out the most because of their nine defensive/special teams scores. They also got a lot of sacks and forced turnovers. We expect much of the same in 2010, but if New Orleans fails to repeat nine DTD scores, then the Saints DST might not be as strong as you would think. The Saints DST is at best a low-end No. 1 Fantasy option heading into Week 1 against the Vikings. Minnesota might be down Sidney Rice (hip), but they still have plenty of weapons in Favre, RB Adrian Peterson and WR Percy Harvin.
News: Saints DB Darren Sharper (knee) will start the season on the PUP list, a league source told NewOrleans.com. Sharper said earlier Friday that anything other than playing against the Vikings in Week 1 will be a disappointment. He'll miss at least the first six games and Malcolm Jenkins will start in his place.
Analysis: Sharper was basically the heartbeat of the Saints defense in 2009, totaling nine interceptions and scoring three times off picks. He was one of the main reasons the Saints DST was a top Fantasy option because the defense gave up a lot of points and yards, but his scores helped Fantasy owners a lot. Sharper is a viable play in Fantasy IDP leagues when healthy, but if he misses the first six games of the season, then he has to be kept reserved. The Saints DST remains a low-end No. 1 Fantasy option, but they could lose some Fantasy appeal since Sharper will be sidelined.
News: Saints All-Pro safety Darren Sharper says his goal remains to be ready to play against the Minnesota Vikings in the Sept. 9 regular season opener, even though he hasn't practiced yet this preseason. Head coach Sean Payton says he's not sure when Sharper will return to practice, but says he won't travel to Tennessee for Thursday's preseason finale. Sharper has been on the physically-unable-to-perform, or PUP, list throughout preseason because of offseason microfracture surgery on his left knee. If he starts the season on the PUP list, he cannot play for six weeks. Sharper says he doesn't want to consider that option right now. Payton will have to make a decision by Saturday.
Analysis: Everyone knows how important Sharper is to the Saints' defense. His interceptions and three touchdowns from last season can attest to that. But the fact his left knee continues to be an issue isn't a good sign. The Saints won the Super Bowl in 2009 by winning a lot of shootouts. That's not to say the defense didn't come up with big stands, but allowing 20 or more points in 12 regular-season games is never a good thing. Surprisingly, the Saints DST was the fifth best scoring unit in Fantasy last season. That had a lot to do with the fact the Saints DST had a Fantasy-high nine defensive/special teams scores -- largely due to Sharper's presence. They also got a lot of sacks and forced turnovers. We expect much of the same in 2010, but if New Orleans fails to repeat nine DTD scores, then the Saints DST might not be as strong as you would think. Consider the Saints DST a low-end No. 1 Fantasy option on Draft Day.
News: The Saints defense has definitely had a battle on their hands in the preseason. New Orleans has been middle of the pack squad by allowing 314.3 yards per game and are near the bottom of the league in scoring defense (22.7 ppg). They have also managed just five sacks in three preseason contests. The Super Bowl champs ranked 25th in total defense (357.8 ypg) and 20th in scoring defense (21.3 ppg) last season.
Analysis: The Saints won the Super Bowl in 2009 by winning a lot of shootouts. That's not to say the defense didn't come up with big stands, but allowing 20 or more points in 12 regular-season games is never a good thing. Surprisingly, the Saints DST was the fifth best scoring unit in Fantasy last season. That had a lot to do with the fact the Saints DST had a Fantasy-high nine defensive/special teams scores. They also got a lot of sacks and forced turnovers. We expect much of the same in 2010, but if New Orleans fails to repeat nine DTD scores, then the Saints DST might not be as strong as you would think. Consider the Saints DST a low-end No. 1 Fantasy option on Draft Day.
News: Safety Darren Sharper confirmed via Twitter that he signed a new contract with the team, taking him off the free-agent market. Terms of the deal were not mentioned but it's believed to be a one-year deal. Sharper, who had minor arthroscopic surgery on his left knee, is expected to be ready for the start of the season.
Analysis: Sharper's return to the New Orleans secondary helps a unit that had some minor concerns back there. But the Saints are built well to defend the pass, which they'll do a lot of once their offense puts up a lot of points on their opponents. We still like the Saints as a low-end No. 1 Fantasy DST; consider them with a late-round pick.
News: Two years in a row, the Saints have put their secondary first in the NFL draft. The Saints selected CB Patrick Robinson out of Florida State with the 32nd overall pick on Thursday night, adding depth to a pass defense that ranked 26th in the NFL in yards passing allowed per game with 235.6. The move gives the defending champions the flexibility to move last year's first-round choice, cornerback Malcolm Jenkins, to safety if they are unable to bring back free agent Darren Sharper. "They'll be a lot of scenarios discussed, and we've got a lot of time to sort it out," head coach Sean Payton said. "Malcolm had an outstanding season in his first year and made a lot of plays that impacted games. We're excited about another young corner." Robinson, who is 5-foot-11, 190 pounds, will give the Saints another potential nickel back. "I know they play a lot of man-to-man defense and that's something I was doing when I was at Florida State, so that's a great thing for me," Robinson said. "I'm just excited to be a Saint. I'm very excited to come in and show exactly what I'm made of."
Analysis: The Saints DST should continue to play well in 2010, but getting Sharper back would help. Still, they remain a No. 1 unit heading into this season and are worth a late-round pick in all leagues.
News: The Saints have signed DE Alex Brown to a contract, adding another pass-rusher to their stable of linemen. He's expected to battle for a starting job in camp this summer.
Analysis: New Orleans needed someone to replace Charles Grant on the line opposite Will Smith, and Brown fits the bill. The Saints DST remains a No. 1 unit heading into 2010 drafts.
News:Charles Grant, a starting defensive end for most of the New Orleans Saints' first championship season, will be released by the only club for which he's played in his eight-year career. Saints general manager Mickey Loomis announced on Thursday that Grant would be released when free agency begins on Friday. Loomis also announced that the Saints had released linebacker Mark Simoneau. Simoneau, 33, has missed the past two seasons with injuries.
Analysis: The concept of Grant will be missed, but the reality is that this defense is fine without the big man on the defensive line. We could see Anthony Hargrove kick outside to take his place. The Saints DST remains a No. 1 unit heading into 2010 drafts.
News: NFL Network reports that the Saints will not use the franchise tag on safety Darren Sharper this offseason. Sharper told the New Orleans Times-Picayune earlier this offseason that he expects to stay with the Saints regardless. Sharper had nine interceptions in 2009 with three returned for touchdowns, stabilizing the Saints' secondary.
Analysis: Sharper isn't vital to the Saints defense, but he certainly helps them out. So long as he is there, the Saints DST remains a useful No. 1 unit in Fantasy Football.
News: The New Orleans Times-Picayune reports that Saints DE Charles Grant will be placed on injured reserve with a torn triceps. He hurt his arm in Week 17 against the Panthers, and it's the same injury he had last year that cost him eight games.
Analysis: This will certainly hurt the Saints' defense in the playoffs since Grant is both good against the run and the pass. They are already getting thin along the D-line. Consider the unit only a mediocre option in Playoff Challenge leagues. Grant's recovery will be key to the defense's success in 2010.
News: The Saints rested their regulars and therefore limped into the playoffs with another loss in Week 17 at Carolina. The Saints DST allowed 327 yards of offense to the Panthers in the 23-10 defeat. New Orleans managed to sack QB Matt Moore twice in the game but did not force a single turnover.
Analysis: After being pretty solid all season, the Saints DST unit has been disappointing to end the year and the Week 17 loss was the icing on the cake. Still, for most of the season you couldn't go wrong using them as they were undefeated until very late. Next year's unit should once again be a solid Fantasy DST option and worth taking in the last rounds on Draft Day.
News: The Saints DST needs to change some things if they hope to make a playoff run. The team could not stop the Tampa Bay ground game in the second half and eventually lost the game, 20-17, in overtime. The Saints DST gave up 439 total yards to the Bucs lowly offense and kicker Garrett Hartley missed a 37-yard FG with time expiring that would have won the game. New Orleans managed to sack QB Josh Freeman three times and they picked him off twice.
Analysis: The Saints DST didn't limit the yards or points in this loss and didn't put Freeman on the ground enough. They may have intercepted him twice but the turnovers forced were limited as well. After being pretty solid all season, the Saints DST unit has been disappointing to end the year. We have trouble recommending them in Week 17 at Carolina as anything but a last-resort option.
News: Saints safety Darren Sharper did not practice Thursday due to a knee injury, and he might not play in Sunday's game against Tampa Bay. It's the same knee injury that gave him problems a couple of weeks ago. Coach Sean Payton said Sharper's knee is simply swollen and he wants to rest him.
Analysis: Keep an eye on Sharper's status heading into Sunday's game against the Bucs and hope he can play. When healthy, Sharper is a No. 1 DB in IDP leagues, and his presence is a big key for the New Orleans DST.
News: The Saints DST gave up 24 points and 439 yards to Dallas in a Week 15 loss. New Orleans managed three sacks but did not force a turnover.
Analysis: After being pretty solid all season, the Saints DST unit has been disappointing these last two games. Things should get better in Week 16 vs. Tampa Bay though, so don't give up on them just yet.
News: The Saints defense had a decent performance on Sunday in a Week 14 win at Atlanta, keeping the team’s record at a perfect 13-0. The team created only one turnover in the contest, a big interception of QB Chris Redman by Jonathan Vilma in the fourth quarter that helped to secure the victory. Redman finished the game with 303 passing yards and a TD pass to Michael Jenkins. On the ground, the Falcons’ rushing attack gained 89 yards on 21 attempts with a Jason Snelling touchdown. Atlanta scored 23 points in the game.
Analysis: The Saints defense doesn’t have to be good week in and week out in order to win games as the offense can score in bunches. However, the Saints DST is still one of the better units in the league and should remain active in most formats for Week 15 against the Cowboys on Saturday.
News: New Orleans was defeated by Washington for three solid quarters in Week 13 in our nation's capital. The Saints won the fourth quarter to tie the game and then won in overtime. The Saints DST did not limit the Redskins as Washington amassed a season-high 455 yards and scored a season-high 30 points in the 33-30 loss. The Saints DST could not sack QB Jason Campbell and the lone interception came late in the game by Jonathan Vilma. The Vilma pick set up the game-tying 53-yard touchdown pass to Robert Meachem. Speaking of Meachem, he was involved in a weird play that contributed points to the Saints DST: QB Drew Brees threw an interception to Kareem Moore of the Redskins, and Moore returned it 14 yards before getting stripped by Meachem. Meachem recovered the fumble and returned it 44 yards for a score. However, CBSSports.com rules it as a defensive fumble recovery and thus a defensive touchdown for the Saints DST because technically Meachem was a defender following the change of possession. By rule when there is a change of possession via turnover, the offensive team becomes the defense and the defense becomes the offense.
Analysis: The Saints DST did little to limit the Redskins' yards and points but came up with three fumble recoveries, an interception and a crazy defensive touchdown. In all, it ended up being a solid week for the DST. The Saints play at Atlanta in Week 14. The Falcons have been putrid and we like the Saints as a solid DST option.
News: The New Orleans Saints dominated the New England Patriots from start to finish on Monday night at home in Week 12. The Saints held the Patriots to 366 total yards and picked off Tom Brady twice without allowing him a single touchdown pass. They did all this even with both starting corners inactive for the game and a third, Randall Gay, getting injured during the contest. The Saints DST sacked Brady twice and forced a third turnover as Laurence Maroney fumbled in the first half.
Analysis: The Saints' secondary will attempt to get healthy but the team played well without both starting corners on Monday night against one of the most prolific passing offenses in the game today. New Orleans plays at Washington in Week 13 and the Redskins are just awful offensively. We like the Saints DST as a No. 1 Fantasy DST for Week 13.
News: The Saints DST totaled three sacks, three interceptions and a forced fumble at the Bucs in Week 11. New Orleans had safety Darren Sharper back, which helped things.
Analysis: The Saints DST has been a pleasant surprise all season long, but they're a risky option in Week 12 when the Patriots come to New Orleans. Consider other options before going with this unit.
News: Hobbled and disenchanted, Chris McAlister wasn't sure he wanted to play in the NFL any more. Suddenly, the 10-year veteran cornerback has been snapped up by the New Orleans Saints -- one of only two remaining unbeaten teams in the NFL -- and he's glad to be back in pads again. "Earlier in the offseason I wasn't ready or (didn't) have the mindset to come back and play football," McAlister said Wednesday, his first day with the club. "For it to take as long as it did, I'm happy it happened before I had no other opportunity." At 32, McAlister was bitter about being cut by Baltimore, the only team for which he'd played during a highlight-filled career that included three Pro Bowl invitations, a victory in the 2001 Super Bowl and a famous 107-yard touchdown return of a missed field goal. "He's a veteran player that understands defense and is someone that we think can come in and help us," Saints coach Sean Payton said. "He worked out yesterday and did a good job."
Analysis: McAlister injured the posterior cruciate ligament in his right knee in the middle of the 2007 season, but tried to play through it. He wound up playing in only eight games two seasons ago and six games last season before having season-ending surgery last November. In February, while undergoing rehab, he was released by the Ravens. In June, he needed arthroscopic surgery to clean up debris in the same knee and he remained unsure about whether he wanted to attempt a comeback until the preseason rolled around. Payton said the Saints are trying to get McAlister ready to play this Sunday, though it's unclear how much they'll need him. New Orleans knows it will be without starting cornerback Tracy Porter, who badly sprained his left knee last weekend against St. Louis. The other starting cornerback, Jabari Greer, said his pulled left groin is feeling better and that he may return, though he missed Wednesday's practice. New Orleans' remaining healthy cornerbacks are rookie Malcolm Jenkins, Randall Gay and Leigh Torrence. The Saints have played well defensively this season under Gregg Williams and the Saints DST has become a top Fantasy option. The addition of McAlister should only bolster the unit. Consider the Saints DST a viable start for Week 11 at Tampa Bay.
News: The Saints allowed 23 points and 434 yards of offense in Week 10 at St. Louis. They forced just one turnover in the game and had two sacks in the game. They lost DB Tracy Porter for the season to a torn ACL and played without DB Darren Sharper in the game. Courtney Roby returned a kickoff 97 yards for a touchdown in the third quarter.
Analysis: Sharper is likely to return in Week 11 at Tampa Bay, but Porter is done for the season. The Saints defense was surprisingly inefficient against a weak Rams offense that looked re-energized in this game. The kickoff return helped to balance things out some. Monitor the team's secondary in the upcoming week, but they should remain a very strong Fantasy play for Week 11 at Tampa Bay.
News: The Saints didn't have the most dominant defensive performance against the Panthers in Week 9, allowing 20 points on 371 yards, but they did get a defensive touchdown, their seventh of the season, on a 1-yard fumble return by Anthony Hargrove in the fourth quarter. They also recorded two sacks and recovered two fumbles.
Analysis: The Saints DST has emerged as one of the most consistent units in Fantasy, making up for yardage and points with big plays. The Saints visit the Rams in Week 10, so you can expect them to have a dominant defensive performance. The Saints DST is obviously a must-start for that matchup.
News: The Saints didn't have the most dominant defensive performance against the Falcons in Week 8, allowing 27 points on 442 yards, but they did score another defensive touchdown, giving them three in their last two games. DB Jabari Greer returned an interception 48 yards for a score in the second quarter. The Saints finished with three interceptions in all and also record three sacks, two by Will Smith.
Analysis: The Saints DST has six touchdowns on the season, so it gets more than enough big plays to start in Fantasy. It can sometimes give up some yardage and points as opposing teams desperately try to hang with the Saints offense, but it usually makes up for it with sacks, interceptions and touchdowns. It has a good matchup Week 9 against the Panthers, so keep it active in all Fantasy formats.
News: Saints DB Darren Sharper's third TD off an interception this season in Week 7 against Miami moved him within one of the NFL's single-season mark. Ken Houston took four picks back for TDs with the old Houston Oilers in 1971, a mark later matched by Kansas City's Jim Kearney (1972) and Philadelphia's Eric Allen (1993). Tracy Porter also took a Chad Henne pass to the house in the game, sealing the Dolphins' fate in the fourth quarter with a 54-yard return. The Saints DST came up with big plays but also allowed 34 points. Ricky Williams managed three scores to lead the Dolphins rushing attack which went off for 137 yards and four TDs. Chad Henne tossed for 211 yards in the game on 18 of 36 passing.
Analysis: The pick-sixes really helped the Saints DST in Week 7 as it helped lead the team to victory and salvaged some points for Fantasy owners. The Saints offense puts up a ton of points, which usually helps out the defense. Going up against a pretty good Atlanta offense in Week 8, the Saints should be considered a low-end No. 1 Fantasy option.
News: The Saints allowed 27 points and 325 yard of offense in Week 6 against the Giants. They recorded two sacks and forced two turnovers in the game. They intercepted one pass and recovered a fumble.
Analysis: The Saints defense didn't have a great game against the Giants despite the fact that the Saints offense put up 48 points on the Giants. Darren Sharper had an interception and touchdown nullified due to a penalty that could have made the Saints a much more productive Fantasy unit this week. We view the Saints as a low-end No. 1 defense for Week 7 against the Dolphins and the Wildcat offense.
News: A new start with the Saints has put "the shake" back in 33-year-old DB Darren Sharper. The NFL's active leader in career interceptions added two more against rookie Mark Sanchez, returning one a club-record 99 yards for a touchdown Week 4 against the Jets. Sharper's trademark shoulder-shaking celebrations are becoming a symbol of a defense that can now take credit for leading New Orleans to victory after taking the blame for the Saints' failure to make the playoffs the past two seasons. The Saints defense got a third interception, a second touchdown on a fumble recovery by Remi Ayodele and four sacks, allowing 10 points on 24 yards.
Analysis: The Saints DST has been a breakout unit in Fantasy this season, recording 10 interceptions and nine sacks in four games. It has a bye in Week 5 and a tough matchup in Week 6 against the Giants, but you'll want it active more often than not in Fantasy.
News: With all the attention on Drew Brees and his prolific start, turns out the Saints defense is pretty effective, too. Will Smith had an interception and a sack to help New Orleans shut down the Buffalo Bills for a 27-7 win in Week 3. The Saints prevented the Bills from mustering any type of a threat through three quarters. Trent Edwards finished 20 of 35 for 156 yards and failed to produce a first down on his final five possessions as the Bills dropped to 1-2 on the season. Buffalo's lone score came on a trick play off a fake field goal early in the second quarter to tie the game at 7. Punter Brian Moorman took the snap and rolled to his left, where he hit a wide-open defensive end Ryan Denney for a 25-yard touchdown.
Analysis: New Orleans held Buffalo to just 243 yards, including 89 rushing. The Saints had three sacks, one interception and one fumble recovery. It's very surprising, but the Saints DST has been one of the highest Fantasy scorers in the first few weeks and just maybe New Orleans finally has a complete team. The Saints will get a nice test over the next two games as they face both the Jets (Week 4) and Giants (Week 6). Consider the Saints a low-end No. 1/high-end No. 2 Fantasy DST heading into Week 4.
News: Saints DB Darren Sharper intercepted his third pass of the season in Week 2 at Philadelphia. He ran it back for a 97-yard touchdown. The Eagles intercepted three passes and recovered a fumble. They also sacked QB Kevin Kolb twice.
Analysis: The Saints allowed 22 points and 463 net yards of offense in Week 2 and while they continue to rack up offensive statistics, they also have allowed quite a few yards in their first two games. They have been able to force some turnovers and get to the quarterback, but they remain just a matchup unit in Fantasy. In Week 3 at Buffalo, they may be useful in larger leagues, but we recommend looking harder for another option.
News: The Saints held rookie QB Matt Stafford to 16 of 37 passing for 205 yards in his first official NFL game. They intercepted three of his passes. The Lions scored 27 points and managed just 231 yards of offense.
Analysis: The Saints managed just one sack in the game and the 27 points was an awful lot to give up against a bad offensive team like the Lions. We view the Saints as a low-end starting defensive unit in Fantasy and they'll face a tough offensive team in Week 2 at Philadelphia, though they may be without starting QB Donovan McNabb.
News: Saints coach Sean Payton says he'll plan on playing Will Smith and Charles Grant this Sunday against Detroit - unless the NFL tells the club the defensive ends' suspensions are enforceable. Smith and Grant were among a handful of NFL players who tested positive last year for a banned diuretic that can be used to mask steroids. They remained active while appealing four-game suspensions handed down by the league. The NFL Players Association has appealed the decision of a federal judge in Minnesota to allow the suspensions, and the league has asked for another federal ruling on if or when it may force the players to sit out.
Analysis: Smith and Grant are huge pieces of the Saints' defensive puzzle, one that's on the rise. Consider the Saints DST a sleeper for Week 1 vs. the Lions but not a regular Fantasy option.
News: Rookie cornerback Malcolm Jenkins and the New Orleans Saints agreed to terms Sunday night on a five year contract, opening the way for the former Ohio State standout to report to training camp. Jenkins was the Saints' first-round draft pick, taken 14th overall, and has missed the first 10 days of camp, including the club's scrimmage on Saturday. "We're glad to have agreed to this five-year deal with Malcolm and look forward to seeing him at practice with his teammates on Monday," general manager Mickey Loomis said. "He is an intelligent young man and given what we saw from him on the field during the offseason, I'm confident that he will get up to speed sooner rather than later." The Saints open their preseason schedule on Friday night against the Cincinnati Bengals in the Louisiana Superdome. Jenkins could have an opportunity to play in all four exhibition games as he attempts to work his way into the Saints lineup. "Finally we can get this ball rolling," Jenkins announced on his Twitter Web site Sunday night. "Sorry for making you guys wait ..."
Analysis: Currently, Jenkins is slotted as a backup, with Jabari Greer and Tracy Porter the expected starters at corner. Randall Gay also has rotated in to work with the first-team cornerbacks during camp, but missed a couple practices late last week with an inflamed bursa at the base of his heel. Jenkins started 45 games in a four-year career at Ohio State that earned him first-team All-America honors and the Jim Thorpe Award as a senior. He was an Associated Press first-team All-Big Ten choice as a junior and senior. He had 11 career interceptions, returning two for touchdowns. He also had 196 tackles and one sack, deflected 18 passes and forced four fumbles. Also playing on special teams, he blocked three punts, two during his senior season. Last season, Jenkins made a career-high 57 tackles, including one sack, intercepted three passes and forced three fumbles. Jenkins is expected to be a factor on defense for New Orleans this season and could eventually start. Jenkins is still worth a flier in most rookie and dynasty Fantasy formats, but his seasonal Fantasy appeal remains on the low end. The Saints DST remains a low-end Fantasy option despite the Jenkins' signing because they have plenty of areas that still need improvement.
News: Saints top draft choice Malcolm Jenkins did not report to training camp with the rest of the team and general manager Mickey Loomis said he was pessimistic that Jenkins would be signed to a contract any time soon. Loomis said Thursday night that he has not spoken with Jenkins' agent, Ben Dogra, since last week, when the Saints made their initial offer to the cornerback out of Ohio State. Head coach Sean Payton said fourth-round pick Stanley Arnoux, who is out for the year with an Achilles' tendon injury, is the only other player who did not report to the team's headquarters in suburban New Orleans.
Analysis: Jenkins has a great chance to start for the Saints, but he seems to be wasting that opportunity with his holdout. The longer a rookie is out of training camp, the harder it could be for him to learn the plays and make a big impact early in his career. Jenkins is still worth a flier in most rookie and dynasty Fantasy formats, but his seasonal Fantasy appeal is dwindling the longer he holds out. The Saints DST is still a low-end Fantasy option, with or without Jenkins because they have plenty of areas that still need improvement.
News: The Saints have agreed to terms on a contract with veteran free-agent safety Darren Sharper. The Saints needed another safety after allowing Josh Bullocks to leave in free agency. Sharper started all 16 regular-season games for the Vikings in 2008 as well as their playoff game. He finished with 79 tackles, an interception, five passes defended and two fumble recoveries. The Saints were looking for a defender who can make big plays. Sharper has returned eight interceptions for touchdowns during his career, and has scored twice on fumble recoveries. "Darren is an accomplished veteran player that brings a wealth of knowledge and ability to our secondary and has always possessed outstanding instincts and playmaking skills," Saints general manager Mickey Loomis said.
Analysis: The Saints have some holes to fill on defense, but they're making some nice veteran improvements. Joining Sharper is DE Paul Spicer, who definitely provides depth along the defensive line. The team also re-signed LB Jonathan Vilma earlier this spring. Slowly but surely, they're gaining some momentum and could play well under new defensive coordinator Gregg Williams. The Saints DST is still a No. 2 unit worth using as a one-week replacement, but with one or two additions they'll creep into the sleeper DST category.
News: NFL Network reports the Saints and LB Jonathan Vilma have agreed to terms on a five-year contract. Vilma was acquired by the club last season and played well in his first year there in their 4-3 scheme defense.
Analysis: The Saints have some holes to fill on defense, but one of them won't be at middle linebacker. They could use some upgrades in their secondary and they might address the outside linebacker spot in the draft. Even with the signing of Vilma, the Saints DST is simply a No. 2 unit worth using as a one-week replacement at this point.
News: The New Orleans Times-Picayune reports that Gregg Williams has been tabbed as the new defensive coordinator of the Saints. Williams was the Jaguars defensive coordinator in 2008, was with Washington from 2004-2007 and the Bills head coach from 2000-2003. Williams is a 4-3 scheme coach that uses pressure aggressively to attack the quarterback. He'll likely work closely with DEs Charles Grant and Will Smith as well as middle LB Jonathan Vilma.
Analysis: The Saints have some holes to fill on defense and could use some upgrades in their secondary. If Williams does well, he likely won't stay with the Saints for long as he'll try to get a head coaching job. If Williams struggles, he'll get fired. The Saints DST is simply a No. 2 unit worth using as a one-week replacement at this point.
News: The Saints DST gave up 27 points in a 33-31 loss to the Panthers Week 17. They allowed 478 net yards with 178 of those going to DeAngelo Williams on the ground.
Analysis: The Saints DST was one of the worst units in the league as their defense couldn't stop anybody. With top defensive player Jonathan Vilma a free agent, the Saints DST could become even less appealing in 2009.
News: The New Orleans Saints had little trouble dominating the Lions in Detroit in Week 16. The Saints DST limited the Lions to 255 yards on the game as they won, 42-7. The Saints DST forced two Lions' turnovers, both coming on interceptions from Dan Orlovsky. Two Saints finished with sacks as Sedrick Ellis and Jeff Charleston each had one.
Analysis: New Orleans certainly won big but didn't actually perform that well as a DST unit with just two turnovers forced and two sacks. The DST is not one of the better ones in the NFL and is only a low-end option in Week 17 against Carolina.
News: The Saints will play at the Lions in Week 16, and that should be music to the ears of Fantasy owners who platoon their DSTs. But there's a warning: The Colts were expected to slam on the Lions last week and couldn't contain RB Kevin Smith or WR Calvin Johnson. The Colts also couldn't sack or pick off the Lions in the game, only able to force two fumbles. The Saints defense isn't any better than the Colts as they rank 26th vs. the pass and 16th vs. the run.
Analysis: Many Fantasy owners will be attracted to the Saints DST in Week 16 because of the matchup, but seeing as how the Saints have struggled against the run and pass this season, there's no guarantee that they'll put the clamp down on the Leos. If you really want a sleeper DST for the week, enlist in the Bengals, who will play at Cleveland against a Browns team that has a hard time scoring touchdowns and will be coming off of a Monday night game. The Saints DST is no better than a low-end No. 1 option in the deepest of leagues -- be sure to consider all options before going with this unit.
News: The Saints defense allowed 27 points on 226 yards at Chicago in Week 15. It recorded two interceptions and a sack. It has only the one sack over its last two games.
Analysis: The Saints DST has turned in some decent performance this season even if it hasn't had many sacks in recent weeks. It normally wouldn't deserve to start in Fantasy, but it has a great matchup Week 16 at Detroit. Consider taking a flier on it if your current options have bad matchups.
News: The Saints recorded zero sacks and only one interception against the Falcons in Week 14, allowing 25 points on 414 yards. They had recorded 10 sacks over their last three games.
Analysis: NFL teams as a whole have struggled to sack Falcons rookie QB Matt Ryan, so the Saints DST didn't do anything unexpected. It also didn't do anything unexpected by allowing 25 points and 414 yards, which makes it a low-end Fantasy option. It should remain reserved in just about all Fantasy leagues for Week 15 at Chicago.
News: A federal judge on Friday blocked the NFL from suspending five players for violating the league's anti-doping policy. U.S. District Judge Paul Magnuson said he needed more time to consider the case after hearing several hours of arguments from the league and the NFL Players Association. Kevin Williams and Pat Williams of the Vikings and Charles Grant, Deuce McAllister and Will Smith of the Saints were suspended this week for four games each for testing positive for a banned diuretic in the dietary supplement StarCaps. The union argued the NFL didn't properly inform players about the substance. The NFL's attorneys argued that that claim, and others, had been considered and rejected in a process set out by the league's collective bargaining agreement.
Analysis: Smith will help the Saints DST corral an extra sack or two in Week 14 against the Falcons, but it's not enough to make them a desirable option. Consider them a No. 2 option at best.
News: On Tuesday afternoon, the NFL announced the suspensions for six players who violated the NFL's Policy on Anabolic Steroids and Related Substances. Those players are Saints RB Deuce McAllister, DE Will Smith and DT Charles Grant, Vikings DTs Pat Williams and Kevin Williams and Texans LS Bryan Pittman. All of these players are suspended through the end of the NFL's 2008 regular season and are eligible to return for the playoffs this year if their team advances that far. In a statement, the NFL said that "the players specifically violated a longstanding provision of the policy relating to the use of diuretics and water pills, which serve as masking agents for steroids and are potentially dangerous to the health of players. The policy states that the use of so-called 'blocking' or 'masking' agents, including diuretics and water pills, is prohibited and that a positive test will not be excused because it results from the use of a dietary supplement that unknowingly contained a banned substance. Supplements are not regulated or monitored by the government and players have been warned about the risks of supplement use."
Analysis: The Saints DST wasn't an appetizing option to begin with, but this clinches them as a unit Fantasy owners shouldn't consider, especially against a solid Falcons offense in Week 14. The Saints were already missing Grant, who is on IR, and Smith will kill the sack production that the team already had.
News: In the Saints' 23-20 loss at the Buccaneers in Week 13, the DST totaled four sacks and two forced fumbles, recovering one.
Analysis: The Saints DST is no better than a No. 2 option considering they usually struggle to stop the run and the pass (they corralled Jeff Garcia moderately well in Week 13 but had a hard time bottling the Bucs' run). With Michael Turner and the Falcons coming to town in Week 14, don't expect them to be an effective Fantasy option.
News: The Saints defense didn't have a dominant performance against the Packers in Week 12, but it did enough to pull out the victory. It allowed 29 points on 343 yards, recording two sacks and three interceptions.
Analysis: The Saints DST now has six sacks and four interceptions over its last two games, but it still gives up too many yards and points to have any serious Fantasy appeal. Consider other options for Week 13 at Tampa Bay.
News: The Saints DST had four sacks on Kansas City QB Tyler Thigpen and recorded his first interception since being named the starter. The Saints also had a forced fumble, and Courtney Roby had four kickoff returns for 112 yards.
Analysis: The Saints DST will likely come back down to its normal level in Week 12 against Green Bay. Don't plan on starting the Saints DST in Week 12.
News: Saints cornerback Mike McKenzie fractured his right kneecap on Sunday and New Orleans coach Sean Payton said McKenzie will have surgery this week and be placed on injured reserve. McKenzie had come back this season from a torn ligament in his right knee and had regained his starting job when his latest injury occurred Sunday in a loss at Atlanta.
Analysis: The Saints gave up 34 points on 361 yards without recording a sack or an interception at Atlanta in Week 10 and isn't a dominant Fantasy unit and has now gone two straight games without a sack. You shouldn't bother starting it except in ideal matchups, which it doesn't have Week 11 at Kansas City with the resurgence of the Chiefs offense. Consider other matchups, especially with McKenzie out of the Saints' secondary.
News: Saints cornerback Mike McKenzie's fractured right kneecap will keep him out for the rest of the season. Saints head coach Sean Payton said Monday that McKenzie will have surgery this week and be placed on injured reserve. Later in the day, the Saints claimed recently released Washington cornerback Leigh Torrence off of waivers, giving him McKenzie's roster spot.
Analysis: Coming back from a right knee ligament tear late in 2007, McKenzie sat out the Saints' first two games of the regular season, but played in the past seven and started six. He had an interception and was credited with 22 tackles and three passes defended before his latest injury occurred during a 34-20 loss in Atlanta on Sunday. It's safe to cut McKenzie in all Fantasy formats. His loss makes the New Orleans defense that much thinner and continues to keep the Saints DST off Fantasy radars.
News: The Saints didn't look any better against the Falcons and rookie QB Matt Ryan in Week 10 at Atlanta. They gave up 34 points on 361 yards without recording a sack or an interception.
Analysis: The Saints DST isn't a dominant Fantasy unit and has now gone two straight games without a sack. You shouldn't bother starting it except in ideal matchups, which it doesn't have Week 11 at Kansas City with the resurgence of the Chiefs offense.
News: The New Orleans Saints have placed starting DE Charles Grant on injured reserve and re-signed veteran defensive tackle Hollis Thomas. Grant will miss the remainder of the season because of a triceps injury, general manager Mickey Loomis said Monday.
Analysis: The Saints' pass rush will suffer because of Grant's departure, but their run defense might improve with Thomas back. Their hands will be full at Atlanta in Week 10, so consider this DST a bad option.
News: The Saints gave up 32 points on 451 yards Week 8 against the Chargers in England. They also recorded an interception and recovered a fumble.
Analysis: The Saints DST isn't considered a major Fantasy asset, and it has looked especially bad the last couple weeks. You only want to start it during favorable matchups. The Saints have a bye in Week 9 before visiting Atlanta in Week 10.
News: The Saints defense didn't slow down the hosting Panthers in Week 7. It allowed 30 points on 336 yards, picking up just one sack and zero turnovers.
Analysis: The Saints DST isn't considered a major Fantasy asset, but it had actually had a decent season up until Week 7. It looks like the kind of unit you'd want to consider only in favorable matchups, which doesn't look like the case for Week 8 against the Chargers in London.
News: New Orleans absolutely manhandled the Raiders in Week 6, 34-3, as the Saints DST limited Oakland to just 226 yards of offense. The Saints forced two Raiders turnovers, both by QB JaMarcus Russell -- one pick and one fumble -- and sacked Russell twice. Both sacks came from DE Bobby McCray.
Analysis: No Reggie Bush heroics were needed in Week 6's dismantling of an inferior team. The Saints are at Carolina in Week 7 and they remain more of a bye-week replacement Fantasy DST.
News: Saints CB Tracy Porter needed surgery on what head coach Sean Payton described as a dislocated right wrist, but it was not clear Tuesday how long the rookie starter would be out. "He had a procedure to put it back in place," Payton said. "I don't want to speculate, but I know the procedure went well." Porter hurt the wrist while attempting to defend a desperation heave by Minnesota's Gus Frerotte on Monday night. Bernard Berrian caught the pass for the tying touchdown as he collided with teammate Aundrae Allison, Porter and Saints safety Josh Bullocks near the goal line. The Vikings went on to win, 30-27. Defensive backs sometimes play with soft casts after similar injuries, but Payton did not sound optimistic about Porter's chances of returning for Sunday's game against Oakland. "It required surgery to get it back in place, which is not good," Payton said.
Analysis: Porter was the Saints' second-round draft pick last spring and won the starting job in training camp. Through the first five games of the season, he's been credited with 25 tackles, including a sack, to go with one interception and five passes defended. Expect to be without Porter for Week 6 against Oakland.
News: The New Orleans Times-Picayune reports that Saints DB Tracy Porter dislocated his wrist during Monday's game vs. Minnesota and needed surgery to repair it. "His wrist was dislocated," Payton said. "He had a procedure done to put it back in place, so we'll have an announcement, I think, soon, in regards to the time frame. Right now I don't want to speculate, but I know the procedure went well."
Analysis: Porter was starting at cornerback for the Saints before getting hurt, but he's likely to miss at least a few games with this injury. While Porter has emerged as a nice low-end Fantasy DB in IDP leagues, this loss will be felt more by the Saints DST. Make sure you bench/drop Porter for Week 6 vs. Oakland.
News: The Saints were without DL Sedrick Ellis (knee) and DB Aaron Glenn (ankle) because of injuries Week 5 against the Vikings and it ended up hurting them in a 30-27 loss. The Saints only managed one sack of QB Gus Frerotte and didn't even force him to throw an interception. The Saints defense had no turnovers while Minnesota posted 270 yards, 44 rushing. The only bright spot for New Orleans came via kick returner Reggie Bush, who tied an NFL record by returning two punts for touchdowns. Bush was 12th player in league history to do it. The last was Eddie Drummond of Detroit against Jacksonville on Nov. 14, 2004.
Analysis: Ellis might only be a defensive tackle, but he is a valuable part of the Saints defense. They actually did an admirable job of bottling up star running back Adrian Peterson, but still allowed 30 points. Bush's two touchdowns helped the Saints DST for Fantasy purposes, but his ability on special teams can't carry the entire unit. The Saints play the Raiders in Week 6 and Oakland is looking for an identity after firing coach Lane Kiffin. However, the Saints DST remains just a possible bye-week Fantasy replacement.
News: The Saints will be without first-round draft pick DL Sedrick Ellis on Monday against Minnesota. The defensive lineman has a damaged right knee.
Analysis: Ellis has minimal Fantasy value when healthy so ignore him in IDP leagues. The Saints DST also has minimal value in Week 5 against the Vikings.
News: The Saints DST had two interceptions, one fumble recovery and six sacks Sunday against the 49ers. Terrance Copper had one kickoff return for 18 yards, and Pierre Thomas had three kickoff returns for 86 yards. Charles Grant had two sacks, and Tracy Porter, Will Smith, Sedrick Ellis and Kendrick Clancy all had one sack. Porter also had an interception.
Analysis: The Saints DST will likely not play this well in Week 5 against the Vikings, so don't consider starting them, even after this outing.
News: New Orleans lost to the Denver Broncos, 34-32, on Sunday in Week 3. The Saints DST did not perform too admirably. The Broncos racked up 369 yards, though the Saints did force them into two turnovers. Defensive back Mike McKenzie intercepted Jay Cutler and the Saints also recovered a fumble. There were no Reggie Bush TD returns to be had on Sunday.
Analysis: The Saints do not have a great defense and this was a crazy high-scoring affair because of it. They are simply a low-end No. 2 defense, if not worse, and are not recommended heading into Week 4 against San Francisco.
News: New Orleans lost to the Redskins 29-24 on Sunday in Washington. The Saints DST allowed the Redskins 455 total yards of offense. The Saints had two players, Will Smith and Chris Reis, who reached Jason Campbell, the Redskins QB, for sacks. Jonathan Vilma was the all-star for the defense with 16 total tackles. The one positive note for the DST was Reggie Bush's 55-yard punt return for a touchdown.
Analysis: The Saints came into Week 2's game in Washington as a low-end No. 2 Fantasy DST vs. the Redskins but certainly showed worse than that after three defensive starters were lost to injury. They'll meet the Broncos solid offense in Week 3 in Denver and shouldn't be counted on in Fantasy. They are a high-end No. 3 DST in Week 3.
News: The Saints' defense will be short at least three players who started in Week 1 when New Orleans plays at Washington on Sunday. Safety Roman Harper, cornerback Randall Gay and linebacker Scott Fujita were unable to practice Friday, and coach Sean Payton said they will not play this weekend. Harper pulled his right hamstring and Gay his left hamstring during the season-opening 24-20 victory over Tampa Bay last Sunday. Fujita bruised his right knee in the first quarter of that game, but returned to make a clinching interception.
Analysis: This kills the value of the Saints DST as a sleeper option this week. Don't count on them in Week 2 at Washington.
News:Hollis Thomas, who already was expected to miss the first six weeks of the season with a torn triceps, has been placed on injured reserve, ending his season. "We were hoping to keep (Thomas) alive, but we're banged up a little bit there and it really came down to having to get another body in here. That was the hard part about it," head coach Sean Payton said. "Now he just has to rehab and get better and we have to move on."
Analysis: Thomas, a 12-year veteran, has spent the past two seasons with the Saints, playing in 30 games and starting 26. Last season, he was credited with 58 total tackles and 3 1/2 sacks. Thomas got hurt during joint practices with the Houston Texans on Aug. 13 and was expected to need two months to recover. Payton chose to keep Thomas on the active roster after training camp, but depth on the interior defensive line became a problem when Antwan Lake injured his left groin in Sunday's season opener against Tampa Bay. Thomas had no Fantasy value in IDP leagues, but his loss hurts the Saints DST, which was already a low-end Fantasy option.
News: The Saints DST allowed 20 points and 352 yards to the Buccaneers in a Week 1 win Sunday. They also had an interception and two sacks.
Analysis: The Saints DST has lots of upside, but a lot of it hinges on how quickly rookie DT Sedrick Ellis adapts to the pro game as well as if Jonathan Vilma is back on top of his play. Vilma played great on Sunday, but the Bucs won't have many games with over 350 yards this season. Leave the Saints for bye-week replacement duty in all leagues.
News: The Saints DST pitched a shutout at Cincinnati in Week 3 of the preseason, totaling four sacks, a forced fumble and an interception. In total, the club has nine sacks and an interception on the year, but held the Bengals to zero points and the Cardinals to 10.
Analysis: The Saints DST has lots of upside, but a lot of it hinges on how quickly rookie DT Sedrick Ellis adapts to the pro game as well as if Jonathan Vilma is back on top of his play. And that's not even considering the secondary, with rehabbing CB Mike McKenzie leading the way. This is a DST you can probably expect to find off the waiver wire this season and not draft. Consider them a one-week replacement.
News: The New Orleans Saints signed former Pro Bowl safety Lance Schulters on Monday. The 33-year-old Schulters joined the squad on Monday, making New Orleans the latest stop in a career that has included stints with San Francisco, Tennessee, Atlanta and Miami. He was selected for the Pro Bowl in 1999 while playing for San Francisco. Although Schulters has not been a starter during his past two seasons, coach Sean Payton said the veteran's experience could be valuable. "He's a guy we feel like understands the position well," Payton said. "He's got good ball skills so we're bringing him in not just for a camp body. I'm anxious to see him play and see what he's got and to see if there's a fit for us."
Analysis: Payton said Schulters could play either free safety or strong safety. "He gives us some experience and some versatility," Payton said. "That's really the first thing we saw and he's in pretty good shape." Schulters was one of several players the Saints invited to their suburban New Orleans training headquarters for workouts, including defensive tackle Anthony McFarland, a former LSU standout who has won Super Bowls with the Indianapolis Colts and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. However, Schulters was the only player signed and Payton said no other acquisitions were imminent. The addition of Schulters can't hurt one of the worst defenses in the NFL, but his signing is still not enough to bump the Saints DST from being a low-end option. Schulters has no Fantasy value in IDP leagues.
News: According to NFL.com, Saints DT Hollis Thomas could miss two months with a right triceps injury. Saints coach Sean Payton disclosed Thomas' injury on Thursday after the 12-year veteran had surgery to repair an injury that had occurred during pass-blocking drills on eveWednesday afternoon. "They tell me the surgery went well but that's all I know right now," Payton said. Thomas was a starter for much of the past two seasons and looked more fit in training camp than ever before. This injury paves the way for top draft pick Sedrick Ellis to be thrust into a major role on the interior of the defensive line this season.
Analysis: Depending on the Saints' confidence in Thomas' recovery in the coming weeks, the team could choose to place him on injured reserve, ending his season, rather than holding an active roster spot for him through the first six weeks of the regular season. As an interior defensive lineman, Thomas doesn't contribute enough statistically to have value in Fantasy but as far as the Saints DST, already a bottom of the NFL option, they drop slightly in value. Ellis, however, sees his Fantasy value rise slightly, but like Thomas, as an interior lineman won't see enough stats to warrant a Fantasy selection or use in most IDP leagues. He should go around the middle rounds of rookie drafts.
News:Bobby McCray knows little about what went wrong with the New Orleans Saints' defense last season. He's not very interested, either. Head coach Sean Payton has said the Saints were looking for a good third defensive end to rotate in for Grant and Smith to keep them from getting worn down, and McCray is it. New Orleans' defense had 32 sacks last season, which tied the Saints for 19th in the league. Difficulty getting pressure on quarterbacks left the Saints' secondary vulnerable to big plays. Opposing offenses had more than 50 plays that went for 20 yards or more. After a little more than a week with his new squad, McCray is already predicting the Saints' revamped defense, whose other new players include former Patriots cornerback Randall Gay and former Jets linebacker Jonathan Vilma, will be a "dominant" unit. "We're going to lead this team," McCray said.
Analysis: The Saints DST has lots of upside, but a lot of it hinges on how quickly rookie DT Sedrick Ellis adapts to the pro game as well as if Jonathan Vilma is back on top of his play. And that's not even considering the secondary, with rehabbing CB Mike McKenzie (torn ACL) leading the way. This is a DST you can probably expect to find off the waiver wire this season and not draft. Consider them a one-week replacement.
News: Defensive tackle DeMario Pressley was placed on injured reserve by the New Orleans Saints on Sunday, forcing the fifth-round draft pick to miss his rookie season. Head coach Sean Payton said Pressley, who practiced as recently as Saturday, was increasingly bothered by an old right foot fracture that had never healed properly. Pressley will have surgery to repair it, the coach said. "We tried to manage it a little bit and it was still becoming problematic," Payton said. "We think the injury is something that can heal with the proper procedure. We just chose to have it done right now rather than wait and try to treat it. It's just gotten progressively worse. ... It became apparent it was going to stay aggravated if he stayed on it."
Analysis: Pressley, who is 6-foot-3, 301-pounds, was the first of the team's two fifth-round selections, taken 144th overall out of North Carolina State. Placing Pressley on injured reserve opened a roster spot, which the Saints filled by signing free agent defensive end Marquies Gunn. Gunn spent parts of 2007 on the practice squads of the New York Giants and Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Pressley was likely going to play a small role on defense in 2008 and his loss doesn't effect Fantasy all that much. The Saints DST is still a poor option and Pressley wasn't a viable IDP player.
News: Saints DE Will Smith has signed a contract extension that will make him one of the NFL's highest-paid defensive players. He signed a six-year deal worth about $70 million, according to a person familiar with the deal who requested anonymity because the terms had not been made public. The deal makes Smith the NFL's third highest-paid defensive end, behind Kansas City's Jared Allen and Indianapolis' Dwight Freeney. Smith skipped much of the Saints' offseason training program because of displeasure with his contract, but participated in a mandatory minicamp and remained in New Orleans afterward. He also worked out with the team during its final two weeks of organized team activities, which are voluntary.
Analysis: While Smith's presence is key to the Saints' success, New Orleans' defense still rates among the second tier when it comes to Fantasy. Consider them a No. 2 unit not worthy of a draft pick in leagues this summer.
News: LB Dan Morgan retired Monday, two months after the frequently injured former first-round draft pick signed with the New Orleans Saints. Morgan, who signed with the Saints March 11, played seven seasons with the Carolina Panthers. He missed the final 13 games of 2007 with a partial tear of an Achilles' tendon, and had at least five concussions in his career. Carolina drafted Morgan in 2001 out of the University of Miami. He recorded 452 tackles, seven sacks, four forced fumbles and five interceptions. He played in 59 games, all starts, and was voted to the Pro Bowl in 2004.
Analysis: Morgan was a solid LB in IDP leagues. He was a good source of tackles, but concussions and other ailments ruined his career. He should not be drafted in any leagues in 2008 and has no Fantasy value at this time.
News: With the No. 7 overall pick in the 2008 NFL Draft, the Saints selected DT Sedrick Ellis with a pick acquired from the Patriots. Ellis was considered one of two premier defensive tackles in the draft and is considered not only a run clogger but also a get-to-the-QB defensive tackle.
Analysis: Ellis' presence will help the Saints run defense, which has been an absolute sore spot for the last two seasons. Combined with the talent at DE (Will Smith, Charles Grant), the Saints should generate a heck of a pass rush in 2008. That in turn will help the linebackers play better, and the defensive backs play better. Keeping in mind that the Saints added LBs Jonathan Vilma and Dan Morgan as well as CB Randall Gay already this offseason, the Saints should be viewed as a nice No. 2 Fantasy DST in drafts this summer with potential to break into the No. 1 crop after the season starts.
News: A deal sending Jets LB Jonathan Vilma to the Saints for a conditional draft choice has been completed. The teams reached a tentative agreement Thursday night, with the Jets getting a conditional draft pick, probably in 2009, based on Vilma's performance. In his first two years as a Jet, Vilma seemed destined for stardom. He was NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year in 2004 and a Pro Bowl alternate in 2005. But in 2006, when Eric Mangini became coach and installed a 3-4 scheme, Vilma's production dropped. He played seven games in 2007 before a knee injury sidelined him. Vilma had surgery to remove bone fragments from his knee in November.
Analysis: The Saints also re-signed DT Brian Young and LB Mark Simoneau. The Saints' biggest weakness over the last two seasons has involved poor LB play. Vilma might be the one to change that. If healthy, he'll be a solid run-stopper in the middle of New Orleans' defense. They might creep into your mind as a bye-week replacement unit once the 2008 season gets underway.
News: Not expected to be a stud Fantasy option in 2007, the Saints DST ranked in the bottom half of standard-scoring leagues. As a team, New Orleans had 32 sacks, 22 fumble recoveries, 13 interceptions and five defensive touchdowns.
Analysis: New Orleans' defensive line took a step back, its linebackers never came together, and teams threw early and often on CB Jason David. Look for New Orleans to work on rebuilding its defense again this offseason in hopes of competing on a higher level in 2008. They are significantly under the salary cap, so if they were to sign some top talent, they could sneak onto the Fantasy radar. For now, they're just not reliable enough.
News: Saints coach Sean Payton made it clear that his offseason priority will be improving a defense that gave up more than 100 rushing yards and 245 passing yards per game and was repeatedly burned on demoralizing third-and-long conversions. "That's something that we'll look at hard in this offseason," Payton said. "I'm talking about getting some more good young players to help on that side of the ball. ... It's an area we want to upgrade and try to address."
Analysis: The Saints DST wasn't an attractive Fantasy option this season because they were fair against the run and awful against the pass, and didn't do much on special teams. Expect them to be no better than a No. 2 option in '08 Fantasy play unless they make some major changes.
News: The Saints DST had two sacks, one interception and two forced fumbles at Chicago in Week 17. They yielded three passing touchdowns in the loss.
Analysis: The Saints defense lacks talent at cornerback and safety, something they should address this offseason. Ultimately, don't expect this DST to be a startable option in 2008.
News: The Saints DST totaled three sacks with a forced fumble and recovery vs. Philadelphia in Week 16.
Analysis: The Saints DST is nothing more than a sleeper unit at Chicago in Week 17.
News: The New Orleans Saints DST allowed 24 points and 317 yards to the Cardinals in a 31-24 win in Week 15. They did add two sacks, an interception and a fumble recovery.
Analysis: The Saints DST is a low-end Fantasy unit that gives up a ton of yards through the air and should remain that way in Week 16 when they host the Eagles.
News: The Saints defense performed as expected against an inferior opponent Week 14 at Atlanta, allowing 14 points on 323 yards. It also recorded three sacks and an interception -- one by Roman Harper that he returned 31 yards for a score. The Saints special teams, meanwhile, picked up 19 yards.
Analysis: The Saints have one of the least desirable DST units in Fantasy, and they host a solid Cardinals offense in Week 15. Leave the Saints DST on waivers.
News: The Saints defense thought they caught a break Week 13 against the Bucs when it was announced that Jeff Garcia would miss the game with a bruised back. How wrong they were. Backup QB Josh McCown led one of the Bucs' finest offensive performances all season. Tampa Bay racked up 466 yards, including 294 through the air, and 27 points. The Saints defense could only respond with three sacks and one interception, which was returned 53 yards for a touchdown by Mike McKenzie.
Analysis: If the Saints can't even shut down a backup QB, how are they going to manage to potentially shut down Falcons QB Chris Redman in Week 14. Redman put on quite a performance in relief Week 13 and might earn a start Week 14 against the Saints. The Saints defense has looked pretty poor this season, and despite the nice matchup, consider other Fantasy DSTs.
News: The Saints allowed just 195 yards of offense and six total points in Week 12 at Carolina. They forced four turnovers -- three interceptions and a fumble -- and added a sack.
Analysis: The Saint DST was only starting in 93 percent of CBSSports.com leagues, so no one really took advantage of this very favorable matchup against a poor offense. In Week 13, the Saints will face a better Tampa Bay offense and are not a recommended unit in most Fantasy leagues.
News: The Saints DST unit totaled one sack and three forced fumbles (two recovered), giving way to solid games from Texans QB Matt Schaub and RB Ron Dayne at Houston in Week 11.
Analysis: The Saints were playing without prominent defenders Charles Grant and Brian Young, but by and large aren't a good Fantasy option to begin with. If they play a Panthers offense without Steve Smith next week (at Carolina in Week 12), they'd be a sleeper option for owners to consider.
News: The Saints DST travels to Houston to face a Texans offense that is ranked 11th in the NFL (seventh in the passing game and 24th on the ground).
Analysis: The Saints DST ranks 25th in total defense, including a pass defense ranked 29th and a rushing defense ranked 13th. They have allowed 24.8 ppg and the Rams did some damage in Week 10. We say pass on this DST in your Fantasy leagues this week.
News: The Saints DST had four sacks Sunday against the Rams but had no turnovers. Pierre Thomas had eight kickoff returns for a 29.1-yard average. Lance Moore had one punt return for 8 yards.
Analysis: The Saints DST has minimal Fantasy value and should not be used in Week 11 at Houston.
News: The St. Louis Rams travel down to New Orleans on Sunday for a Week 10 matchup. The Rams rank 29th in total offense and they have given up 25 sacks so far this season.
Analysis: The Saints DST is ranked 21st in total defense (27th against the pass and 10th against the run). This game could turn into a high-scoring affair, which is bad for those leagues that use "points allowed" as a stat. If you just get points for turnovers and sacks, consider starting the Saints in this matchup.
News: The Saints allowed 432 yards of offense and 24 points in Week 9 vs. Jacksonville. They recorded no sacks, but DB Mike McKenzie did return one of three interceptions back 75 yards for a touchdown.
Analysis: The Saints allowed mediocre QB Quinn Gray to throw for over 350 yards, but many of those yards came with the Jags in come-from-behind mode. The Saints defensive unit has been a middle-of-the-road bunch for Fantasy owners, but they will have a nice matchup in Week 10 against a struggling St. Louis offense. Consider them a decent bye week replacement.
News: The Saints DST will host a struggling Jacksonville Jaguars offense in Week 9 on Sunday. The Jaguars are fourth in the rushing game, but only 27th in the passing game.
Analysis: The Saints DST ranks 19th in total defense, including 25th against the pass and 10th against the run. They only have three interceptions so far this season, which is last in the NFL. Pass on this unit unless you are in a very deep league on one that starts two DSTs.
News: The New Orleans Saints DST held San Francisco to just 260 yards of net offense, sacked QB Alex Smith twice and recovered a fumble in a 31-10 win over the 49ers in Week 8.
Analysis: If you started the Saints in Week 8, you might have expected more from the unit -- especially in the interception department. Still, it was a pretty good effort and the Saints are a nice sleeper start against the Jaguars in Week 10, who will still be without David Garrard.
News: New Orleans will travel to San Francisco to face a 49ers team that ranks worst in total offense on Sunday in Week 8. The Niners are 32nd in the passing game and 26th on the run.
Analysis: The Saints DST has been a disappointment so far this season. They rank 22nd in total defense, including 27th against the pass and 12th against the run. They have forced only three interceptions this season, and just nine sacks. If your starting Fantasy DST is on a bye, this should be a nice matchup for the Saints DST.
News: The Saints held the visiting Falcons to 16 points on 334 yards in Week 7. Their defense recorded three sacks, and their special teams gained 133 yards.
Analysis: The Saints DST has had two decent weeks in a row, but it's still only worth using in extremely favorable matchups. The Saints might just have one of those matchups Week 8 at San Francisco -- particularly if Trent Dilfer starts at quarterback for the Niners.
News: The New Orleans Saints DST allowed 17 points and 425 total net yards in Week 6 at Seattle. The Saints were also good for five sacks, an interception and a 5-yard fumble return on a first quarter botched punt which was taken back for a score by RB Pierre Thomas.
Analysis: The Saints DST looked good, but they're still only worth using in the deepest of Fantasy leagues heading into Week 7 against the Falcons. If they show well against QB Joey Harrington and Atlanta, they might be worth using again on a weekly basis.
News: The Saints DST will face Seattle's 21st-ranked offense (13th in the passing game and 23rd-ranked running game) on Sunday. The Seahawks have give up 10 sacks and only four interceptions.
Analysis: The Saints DST is ranked 16th in total defense this season, including 19th against the pass and 17th against the run. This is not a recommended Fantasy unit to start for Week 6.
News: The Saints allowed only 243 yards and 16 points to the visiting Panthers in Week 5, but they lost 16-13 in another shoddy performance for their once-standout offense. Their defense recorded one sack and one interception, and their special teams had 111 yards.
Analysis: The Saints DST is one of the worst in Fantasy and has a terrible matchup at the Seahawks in Week 6. Keep it reserved in all leagues.
News: New Orleans hosts Carolina in a Week 5 NFC South matchup Sunday. The Saints defense is ranked 26th in the league in total defense, 25th in passing and 18th in rushing.
Analysis: Carolina's offense has been mediocre and now Steve Smith won't have Jake Delhomme (elbow) throwing to him. Even with the good matchup, we're not recommending starting them this week.
News: Saints starting cornerback Jason David will miss four to six weeks with a fractured left forearm. Head coach Sean Payton said Tuesday he hasn't decided who will start in David's place when New Orleans returns to action at home against the Carolina Panthers on Oct. 7. David got hurt during the Saints' 31-14 loss to Tennessee on Monday night.
Analysis: David's possible replacements include Jason Craft, rookie Usama Young and veteran Fred Thomas. "All those guys will be in the mix," Payton said. "The specifics of who will start, we'll decide later on." The Saints have a bye week now, which could help several players nursing minor injuries from Monday night come back without missing any games. They're only worth a look as a bye-week replacement in the deepest of Fantasy leagues heading into Week 5 against the Panthers once they return from a bye.
News: The New Orleans Saints DST allowed 31 points and 284 total net yards in Week 3 against the Titans. They were able to pick off one pass, but they ended up with no sacks or fumble recoveries.
Analysis: The Saints defense wasn't much better than its suddenly anemic offense. They're only worth a look as a bye-week replacement in the deepest of Fantasy leagues heading into Week 5 against the Panthers once they return from a bye.
News:The Sports Xchange reports because of a turf toe injury to defensive tackle Kendrick Clancy, the Saints may have to count out on their best run stopper from a year ago when they go against the Titans in Week 3. Hollis Thomas has been part of the line rotation for the first two games, but his role could expand with Clancy ailing and the NFL's top running attack coming to the Superdome as the Titans are averaging a healthy 211.5 yards a game.
Analysis: The Saints defense has been just flat out awful in the first two weeks. Facing Peyton Manning and the Colts is one thing, but getting run all over by Jeff Garcia and the Bucs in Week 2 is not good at all. The Saints DST is nothing more than a No. 2 Fantasy option heading into Week 3 against the Titans. Let's see what a mobile quarterback like Vince Young will do against the Saints.
News: A week after yielding 41 points to the Colts, the Saints defense struggled once again Week 2 against the Bucs. They allowed 330 yards and 31 points. The Bucs managed 87 yards on the ground and 243 through the air. The Saints failed to sack Bucs QB Jeff Garcia or intercept one of his passes.
Analysis: The Saints defense has been just flat out awful in the first two weeks. Facing Peyton Manning and the Colts is one thing, but getting run all over by Garcia and the Bucs is not good at all. The Saints DST is nothing more than a No. 2 Fantasy option heading into Week 3 against the Titans. Let's see what a mobile quarterback like Vince Young will do against the Saints.
News: The New Orleans Saints were awful in their Week 1 opening loss at Indianapolis on Thursday, allowing 41 points. The highlight of the evening was a 55-yard fumble return for touchdown by DB Jason David, a former Colt. However, David was also the victim of three touchdown passes to his side from Peyton Manning.
Analysis: The Saints will look for a much better performance in Week 2 against Jeff Garcia and the Buccaneers in Tampa Bay. Unless sacks count big in your Fantasy league, the Saints DST is nothing more than a No. 2 option, especially after this abysmal performance.
News: The Saints defense held the first-string Cincy offense to just field goals in their preseason meeting. Although the Saints totaled just one sack and one forced fumble in the game, they shut down the Bengals' strong running and pass-happy offense.
Analysis: Unless sacks count big in your league, treat the Saints DST as a No. 2 option in 2007 Fantasy play.
News: Asked to hold the corner against the run while rushing the quarterback, defensive ends have one of the most difficult positions in football. Saints DE Charles Grant added pressure to that job description when he said he and teammate DE Will Smith are capable of 30 sacks this season -- nearly twice their output last year. "That's our goal, no doubt," Grant said. "Will's a great defensive end on the other side. Hey, I got the left side on lock. Why not?"
Analysis: Grant and Smith are two of the better defensive ends in the NFL, but the rest of the Saints defense is a little iffy. True, they did add LB Brian Simmons to help slam the run and boast a fairly underrated secondary, but the Saints defense shouldn't be considered in Fantasy play as a starting unit unless sacks count big in your league.
News: The New Orleans Times-Picayune reports that the Saints have signed LB Dhani Jones to a one-year deal. Jones will compete for a spot in the starting lineup and should come away with a gig. "They have Scott Fujita, Mark Simoneau, Scott Shanle and a host of linebackers that are coming in," Jones said. "I will provide the depth, but also will push those linebackers so that we can compete going into next season."
Analysis: This gives the Saints another run-hindering presence past the defensive line, albeit an aged one. If anything, it pushes the Saints up a smidge among the No. 2 DSTs. They're worth a late-round pick in the deepest of leagues.
News: The Saints have released WR/KR Michael Lewis and DE/DT Willie Whitehead. "Both Michael and Willie made big contributions to our success last year and we hope they have successful futures in the NFL," coach Sean Payton said in a statement. "They are quality people who have proven that hard work and dedication can get you just as far as reputation or pure talent. We have the utmost respect for them as individuals and players."
Analysis: Neither Lewis nor Whitehead were or will be productive enough to consider in Fantasy play. The Saints DST remains a No. 2 unit without them.
News: Charles Grant agreed to a seven-year contract extension Thursday worth up to $63 million with New Orleans, ending a simmering dispute over the Saints putting the franchise tag on the starting defensive end. Grant has played five seasons in New Orleans since being drafted in the first round, 25th overall, out of Georgia in 2002. The 6-foot-3, 290-pound lineman has 298 tackles, 36 sacks and 15 forced fumbles during that span. He played in all 16 regular-season games in 2006 and was in on 64 tackles, including six sacks. His best season was 2004, when he made or assisted on 78 tackles, with 10 1/2 sacks.
Analysis: Grant is a huge part of the Saints defensive line, which is considered the pillar for their entire defense. With him in the fold and the additions of LB Brian Simmons, FS Kevin Kaesviharn and CB Jason David, the Saints DST is a decent bye-week replacement option and a No. 2 Fantasy choice.
News: NFL Network reports that the Saints' offer to Colts restricted free agent CB Jason David was not matched, making him part of the Saints. The Saints will send a fourth-round pick to the Colts as compensation.
Analysis: David will be a definite help to the Saints' secondary, though not on the same level as one of the premier corners in the league. The Saints have also added safety Kevin Kaesviharn and LB Brian Simmons this offseason, so their defense should be somewhat improved. Still, they are a No. 2 unit not worth drafting outside of the deepest of Fantasy leagues.
News: The Saints signed safety Kevin Kaesviharn to a four-year contract on Tuesday. Last year he led the Bengals with six interceptions, adding 58 tackles, a career-high four sacks and a forced fumble. He has 15 career interceptions, six sacks, four fumble recoveries, a pair of forced fumbles and 47 pass defenses. "Kevin will be a good addition to our group of safeties from a productivity standpoint on the field, in addition to being a leader for our young players," Saints GM Mickey Loomis said. "He has been a solid, consistent player for the Bengals for several years and a good influence in the locker room. Kevin is the kind of player we were looking for to add to our mix on defense."
Analysis: The former Arena Leaguer and XFL player will help the depth at safety for the Saints and could land a starting gig. He'll help a Saints secondary that got burned often last season, but he's not enough of a player to improve the Saints DST's status as a No. 2 unit in Fantasy Football.
News: The Saints have announced that LB Brian Simmons has agreed to a three-year contract with the club. A nine-year veteran with Cincinnati, Simmons is expected to start in New Orleans as their middle linebacker. Simmons had 60 total tackles (33 solo) with two interceptions and two passes defensed in 11 games last season, and had 508 solo tackles in his career with the Bengals.
Analysis: Simmons will definitely help the Saints defense against the run, albeit for the short term. Still, the Saints DST remains a No. 2 unit in Fantasy play.
News: The New Orleans Times-Picayune reports that the Saints and DT Hollis Thomas have agreed on a four-year deal worth $12 million. Thomas was set to be a free agent this offseason. "I feel pretty good," said Thomas, who'll enter his 12th season. "As long as I still have the passion, I'll keep playing. I'm not going to kid myself. I'll play each year one year at a time, come out and try to play my best. At the end of it, if I don't feel like going back to work out at the end of the season, then that's when I'll know I'm not supposed to be here anymore."
Analysis: Thomas will anchor a defensive line that was a catalyst for an overachieving Saints defense in 2006. Their line was great, but the rest of the defense managed to just get by. The Saints DST is still not strong enough to use as a No. 1 unit in 2007 Fantasy play.
News: ESPN reports that the Saints intend to apply the franchise tag to DE Charles Grant. That means that he would be offered a one-year deal at the salary of the top-five highest paid defensive linemen in the NFL. Teams may make Grant an offer, but if they do and the Saints don't match, they'll have to give up two first-round picks.
Analysis: The Saints defense was bolstered by their D-line, which was anchored by Grant. If he leaves, the line will be in trouble. Nevertheless, franchised players hardly ever leave, so expect Grant to be in New Orleans in 2007. Grant is a solid No. 1 Fantasy DL, worth a pick in the middle rounds.
News: The Saints' No. 1-ranked offense and quarterback Drew Brees get much of the credit for New Orleans' success this season. As for their 11th-ranked defense? "I have felt at times the defense hasn't gotten the credit it deserved," starting middle linebacker Scott Fujita said. "All season long, we've stepped up and made plays when we had to. I would like our 'D' to get a little more respect. If we play well this weekend ... I think our team as a whole will get that." On Sunday, the Saints defense will be challenged by a Chicago offense that runs well and has often been impressive, but also inconsistent because of erratic play by quarterback Rex Grossman during the second half of the season. "Our defense is always the underdogs," defensive end Will Smith said. "We've had a couple of bad games here and there, but for the most part we've played pretty well."
Analysis: Consider the Saints DST a decent option for the NFC Championship Game against the Bears.
News: The Saints defense didn't record a takeaway vs. Philadelphia in the Divisional Playoffs, getting only one sack on QB Jeff Garcia. They held the Eagles to 24 points.
Analysis: The New Orleans defense isn't very desirable at this point even though they will have a chance to get some takeaways from a Bears offense that has been known to melt down. Consider them a low-end option for the NFC Championship Game.
News: New Orleans DL Hollis Thomas missed the last four games of the regular season. Thomas will be back for the Saints' second-round playoff game, following a suspension. While his teammates got the first part of the week off, Thomas worked out at the Saints' training headquarters, looking fresh and fit, coach Sean Payton said Wednesday. Thomas was suspended by the NFL, which said he failed a test for banned steroids. Thomas has denied violating NFL policies, and said the positive test resulted from substances in his asthma medication. Now that the suspension has ended, Thomas is once again eligible to practice and play with New Orleans. Thomas was acquired in a draft-day trade after spending the first decade of his career in Philadelphia. Through the Saints' first 12 games, he was in on 43 tackles and had 3.5 sacks.
Analysis: Look for Thomas to improve the Saints defensive line. Consider him a No. 2 option in Fantasy playoff leagues that use IDP players.
News: The Saints defense did not have a sack, interception or forced fumble vs. Carolina in Week 17. Coach Sean Payton pulled his starters in the first half.
Analysis: The Saints defense isn't a top-12 Fantasy option in 2007, but they should be good as a No. 2 choice in deeper leagues.
News: The Saints allowed just 142 yards of offense in Week 16 at the N.Y. Giants, holding them to just seven points. They interrcepted one pass and recovered a fumble and also sacked Giants QB Eli Manning twice.
Analysis: The Saints made the Giants look like a junior varsity high school team at times in this game and limited Eli Manning to just 19 yards of passing after allowing a 55-yard TD in their opening drive. The Saints will be red hot when they face Carolina in Week 17.
News: The Saints allowed 354 yards of offense and 16 points in a 16-10 loss to Washington in Week 16. They did not force any turnovers in the game and picked up only one sack in the game.
Analysis: They held the Redskins to just 16 points, but did little else to help Fantasy owners in terms of Fantasy points. They face a reasonably tough matchup in Week 16 at the N.Y. Giants.
News: The New Orleans Saints DST allowed 17 points and 347 total yards in Week 14 at Dallas. They also had two sacks and two interceptions in the game.
Analysis: Despite their decent showing, the Saints DST is only considered a low-end Fantasy option for Week 15 against QB Jason Campbell and the Redskins.
News: The New Orleans Saints announced CB Curtis Deloatch, LB Alfred Fincher, OG Montrae Holland, WR Joe Horn (groin), DE Trevor Johnson, OT Rob Petitti, S Bryan Scott and RB Aaron Stecker (hamstring) are inactive for Week 14 at Dallas.
Analysis: With the exception of Horn, none of the players are worth using in any Fantasy leagues when healthy.
News: Saints defensive tackle Hollis Thomas was suspended for the final four games of the regular season Tuesday for violating the league's steroid policy. Thomas, backed by the team, appealed the suspension, which he said was caused by using asthma medication. He uses an inhaler daily and it apparently contained a banned steroid. Thomas signed this year with New Orleans after playing nine seasons with the Eagles; he missed the 2002 season in Philadelphia with a broken right foot. He's had 43 tackles and four sacks for the Saints and has been an integral part of their 8-4 record, which leads the NFC South.
Analysis: If New Orleans makes the playoffs, Thomas would be eligible to play. He can be added to the active roster on Jan. 1, 2007, the day after the regular season ends. This will hurt the Saints' defensive line rotation, but because the Saints defense is not a quality Fantasy option in leagues, this loss shouldn't impact their value much. We do not recommend using the Saints defense at Dallas in standard Fantasy play.
News: The Saints allowed only 10 points and 202 yards of offense in Week 13 vs. San Francisco. They intercepted QB Alex Smith three times and sacked him three times.
Analysis: The Saints had an all-around solid game defensively and have emerged as a useful unit in leagues of 12-plus teams. They have a tough matchup in Week 14 vs. Dallas.
News: The Saints defense had three sacks and a forced fumble while holding the Falcons to 13 points in Week 12.
Analysis: The Saints defense could get a tougher challenge vs. San Francisco in Week 13. They should be OK against the pass in the game, but not the run. Consider them a low-end option for next week.
News: The Saints allowed 31 points and 385 yards of total offense in Week 11 vs. Cincinnati. They recorded one turnover on an interception and sacked QB Carson Palmer once.
Analysis: The Saints have taken a big step back in the last few games and their defense has been a big reason why. They should be considered as a starting unit only in the deepest of leagues for Week 11 at Atlanta.
News: The Saints defense yielded 38 points, totaling two sacks at Pittsburgh in Week 10.
Analysis: The Saints defense is not a reliable start vs. Cincinnati in Week 11. Keep 'em benched or on the waiver wire.
News: The Saints defense bounced back from a weak performance in Week 8 against the Ravens with a very strong performance against the Bucs in Week 9 yielding only 226 yards and 14 points. They came up with four sacks -- two from DL Will Smith and one each from DLs Charles Grant and Brian Young.
Analysis: The Saints have now had two great defensive performances against the Bucs, just too bad they don't face them again this season. The Saints D has been struggling as of late, but have had some decent performances this season. They play the Steelers in Week 10 and they have been struggling on offense this season. Consider the Saints DST a low-end Fantasy DST. Smith, Grant and Young are also at best low-end Fantasy DLs in IDP leagues.
News: The Saints defense allowed three Steve McNair touchdowns (two pass, one run) in Week 8. They did total one sack and one forced fumble. They also allowed RB Jamal Lewis to get over 100 rush yards.
Analysis:This Saints defense is what we expected to see more of this season. Consider them a bye-week replacement defense when they play at Tampa Bay in Week 9.
News: Saints wide-receiver/kick returner Michael Lewis, who has been on the physically unable to perform (PUP) list since the start of training camp, began practicing with the team on Monday. That started the clock on a 21-day window in which the Saints have to decide if they want to put Lewis on the 53-man roster, keep him on PUP and end his 2006 season, or waive him. If the Saints want to activate Lewis for Sunday's game with the Baltimore Ravens, they'd have to do it by Friday afternoon. Lewis said he's 100 percent recovered from the torn left ACL that ended his 2005 season in Week 2. He also had to have the knee cleaned out about five weeks before training camp opened. "It felt good being out there running around," said Lewis, an All-Pro kick returner in 2002. "I think I was too excited. I fell down a couple of times. Just getting back out there, getting back in uniform, felt great."
Analysis: Fantasywise, Lewis' return would only improve the value of the Saints DST (not to mention the Saints ST). He's not coming back this week, but with the offensively-challenged Ravens coming to New Orleans, the Saints aren't a bad defense to use.
News: The Saints allowed 372 yards of total offense and 24 points in Week 6 vs. Philadelphia. They forced two turnovers and sacked Donovan McNabb three times in the game.
Analysis: Consider the Saints a decent bye-week replacement unit, but not for Week 7 -- they'll be on a bye of their own before taking on the Ravens in Week 8.
News: The Saints will have to shuffle their defensive backfield for their game with the Philadelphia Eagles after the loss of starting strong safety Roman Harper to a torn ACL in his left knee. Omar Stoutmire, whom Harper supplanted as the starter in training camp, will move into the lineup and 13-year veteran Jay Bellamy, whose contract was terminated just before the season opener, will take Harper's roster spot. Saints coach Sean Payton didn't want to say who will replace Stoutmire in the dime package, but Bellamy is likely to step in when the Saints go to six defensive backs. Bryan Scott won the dime job in training camp, but he's missed four of the five regular-season games with a hamstring injury.
Analysis: With the Saints hurting in the secondary, you might want to consider using a different DST for Week 6 since the Saints will play the pass-happy Eagles on Sunday.
News: Rookie Roman Harper, who broke into the starting lineup as a weakside safety, has a torn ligament in his knee and will miss the remainder of the season. Team officials confirmed that tests on Harper's left knee revealed Monday that he had a torn anterior cruciate ligament. The Saints placed Harper on injured reserve and re-signed 13-year veteran Jay Bellamy to fill his spot on the roster. "It's unfortunate because he's been playing well," Saints coach Sean Payton said.
Analysis: Harper should be dropped in all IDP Fantasy leagues. Bellamy is not a recommended Fantasy option in leagues which use individual players, however. The Saints DST remains a solid Fantasy unit for Week 6 against Philadelphia, but QB Donovan McNabb might look to exploit this hole.
News: The New Orleans Times-Picayune reports that Saints rookie SS Roman Harper tore his left ACL and will miss the remainder of the 2006 season. The impressive first-year starter had 33 tackles, a sack, a forced fumble and three pass deflections through five games. Omar Stoutmire will start in his place.
Analysis: Harper is the first Saints starter to be lost for any amount of time with an injury. Stoutmire is a capable replacement, but one to be targeted for sure by the Eagles in Week 6. The Saints should not be used in that matchup and are only good enough for use as a bye-week defense when the matchup is right.
News: The Saints DST allowed 21 points, 219 yards passing and 187 yards rushing against Tampa Bay on Sunday. They had two sacks and forced one fumble. Reggie Bush did score his first NFL touchdown on a punt return, however.
Analysis: The Saints DST has been playing well, but this was not a good game for them, save for the return for a score. It doesn't get much easier for this unit, as Philadelphia comes to town in Week 6 before a bye week. Start them in hopes of a rebound game and a letdown for Philly after playing Dallas.
News: The Saints defense had just one sack at Carolina in Week 4, giving up 21 points and allowing 105 rushing yards to DeShaun Foster. CB Fred Thomas had 12 solo tackles in the game.
Analysis: The Saints defense was on the rise, added in 44 percent of CBS SportsLine.com leagues, but they're not a reliable option to use in Fantasy Football league play. However, they will play vs. Bruce Gradkowski and the Buccaneers in Week 5, so consider them a nice bye-week replacement -- especially if the Tampa Bay offensive line is not healthy for the game.
News: The New Orleans defense allowed just 229 total net yards and three points in their Week 3 win against the Falcons. They also accounted for five sacks of QB Michael Vick in the 23-3 win.
Analysis: The New Orleans defense finally matched up against what is considered a 'good' offense and they were dominant like the first two weeks at Cleveland and at Green Bay. They are rising as a Fantasy option and are a solid play in Week 4 at Carolina if your primary option has a bye week or difficult matchup.
9/19/2006
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Saints defense deep, strong
News: Saints coach Sean Payton really liked how the Saints competed in the second half by wearing the Packers down, reaping the rewards of a brutal training camp in Jackson, Miss. The Saints rotated their interior defensive linemen, linebackers and cornerbacks throughout the game to save something for the fourth quarter, which is when they turned a 20-all tie into a 34-20 lead with less than eight minutes to play. "I told them I'm pleased with the way we played in the second half," Payton said. "I think we had a great offseason. (Strength and conditioning coach) Dan (Dalrymple) did a great job with these guys in the spring with the amount of running and lifting they did. Hopefully, we're drawing dividends on that. That's been something I've been real excited about, the conditioning level, these guys having some staying power."
Analysis: Despite the win, the Saints DST doesn't appeal to owners as a strong unit. Keep them on the waiver wire.
9/18/2006
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Packers pass by Saints
News: The Saints gave up 340 yards passing against Packers QB Brett Favre.
Analysis: Despite several good individual performances by DL Will Smith (three tackles and one sack), DL Charles Grant (four tackles and one fumble recovery) and DB Omar Stoutmire (five tackles and one interception), the Saints are not a good start in any league.
9/12/2006
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Saints DST deals with injuries
News: RB/KR Aaron Stecker was inactive Sunday because of a sprained ankle, but is expected to be ready for Sunday's game with the Green Bay Packers. FS Bryan Scott, who starts in the dime, did not play Sunday because of a hamstring injury and will be questionable for the Packers.
Analysis: SS Omar Stoutmire started in the dime in place of Bryan Scott when the Saints went to six defensive backs and will likely fill that role again this week. DT Rodney Leisle did not play Sunday because of a sprained right medial collateral ligament, but should be read to return soon. CB DeJuan Groce did not play Sunday because of a hamstring injury. Payton said he's improving, but his return is not known. LS Kevin Houser has a finger injury, but should be OK for the game with the Packers. The Saints DST is not worth starting in most formats.
9/10/2006
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Saints' D strong in win
News: The Saints DST held the Browns to 186 total yards of offense in Week 1 as the boys from New Orleans opened the season with a 19-14 win. They sacked Browns QB Charlie Frye five times, forced and recovered one fumble and intercepted two passes. Bryan Young had three sacks in the game and Scott Fujita had an interception.
Analysis: The Saints D looked good Week 1 against the Browns. Week 2 they travel to Green Bay and could once again have another solid week. Consider playing the Saints D in Week 2.
9/6/2006
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Saints DST prepping for Browns
News: Following a treacherous preseason that saw the Saints give up over 100 rushing yards and close to 200 yards per game. That's not too terrible considering the preseason, but other than the defensive line, the Saints defense is shaky. For example, the team traded for LB castoff Mark Simoneau from Philadelphia and inked LB Danny Clark, and both of those players are significant upgrades in the middle of their defense. As for the special teams, KR Michael Lewis is out for at least the first six games with a knee injury.
Analysis: All that said, the Browns offense is no work of art either. Using the Saints DST is not a recommended unit unless your primary DST has a bear of a matchup (like the Giants vs. Indianapolis or Kansas City vs. Cincinnati). Don't use the Saints defense unless you have to.
8/23/2006
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LB Shanle dealt to New Orleans
News: The New Orleans Saints acquired linebacker Scott Shanle from the Dallas Cowboys for an undisclosed draft pick in the 2007 NFL Draft. The trade is pending the player passing a physical, the Saints said. Shanle is entering his fourth season in the NFL. He joined the Cowboys in 2004, playing on special teams and starting 11 games. In 2005, he had 50 tackles and 1.5 sacks.
Analysis: Shanle will help shore up a LB-depraved unit, but won't help the Saints become anything more than bye-week filler during the season. Do not draft the Saints DST.
8/21/2006
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Saints D bolsters Titans
News: In the team's first preseason game, the Saints defense held Tennessee to 219 total yards and holding them to 16 points in the game.
Analysis: The Saints have talent on the defensive line but are otherwise a little thin. At linebacker, they're especially thin (Albert Fincher -- who?? -- is their starting middle linebacker). Owners are advised to skip adding this unit, only utilizing them on your primary DST's bye week when the Saints face a soft offense.
8/6/2006
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Defense strong in Saints scrimmage
News: Offensive-minded new head coach Sean Payton saw the New Orleans Saints' defense get the best of his team's first scrimmage of training camp. While two new marquee players, Drew Brees and Reggie Bush, each provided a sampling of their potential to move the offense, defensive stalwart Charles Grant who stood out most in a nearly two-hour scrimmage Saturday. Grant had a sack, wrapped up Bush behind the line of scrimmage and rushed Brees into an ill-advised throw that linebacker Scott Fujita intercepted and probably would have returned for a touchdown if not for a quick whistle.
Analysis: The defense gave up only two touchdowns - and that was when reserves were on the field on both sides of the ball. "It's always that double-edged sword," Payton said. "You're encouraged on one end because they established some pressure and hurried the quarterback. Then you want to check your protections and make sure that you're giving (quarterbacks) a chance to function."
4/6/2006
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New Orleans acquires Bryan Scott
News: According to reports, the New Orleans Saints have acquired S Bryan Scott and a draft pick from the Atlanta Falcons in exchange for LT Wayne Gandy.
Analysis: Scott will have a fresh start in New Orleans and has the skills to make an impact in leagues that utilize individual defenders. He also makes the Saints DST a bit more attractive.
3/20/2006
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LB Simmons signs with Saints
News: Linebacker Anthony Simmons signed a contract to join the Saints in 2006. Terms of the deal weren't disclosed. The team also inked S Omar Stoutmire.
Analysis: Simmons will provide some depth for the Saints at linebacker and will fight for a roster spot in training camp. The Saints' linebackers were weak last season, so this is a sign they are addressing the position.
3/17/2006
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Saints add LB Anthony Simmons
News: According to reports, the New Orleans Saints have signed LB Anthony Simmons to a one-year, $1.5 million contract.
Analysis: Simmons missed all of last season due to a broken wrist.
1/17/2006
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No TDs for Saints DST
News: The Saints DST recorded 10 interceptions, 26 sacks, nine fumble recoveries, no TDs and allowed 398 points (24.8 PPG) this season.
Analysis: The Saints DST was the lone unit not to score at least one touchdown this season. It will warrant little attention in most 2006 drafts.
1/1/2006
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Saints DST roughed by Bucs
News: The Saints allowed 27 points and 285 yards in Week 17 at Tampa Bay. They picked up just one sack in another losing effort.
Analysis: The Saints DST was just one of the many things that never clicked for the team in a season to forget in 2005. They have plenty of work to do in the offseason.
12/24/2005
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Saints DST allows 13 points
News: The Saints DST allowed 13 points, 71 yards rushing and 208 yards passing at New Orleans in Week 16 Saturday. "The defense played well enough to win all day, except at the end," Saints coach Jim Haslett said. "In this league you can't kick field goals and win."
Analysis: New Orleans DST could play well at Tampa Bay in Week 17. In Week 13, at Baton Rouge, La., they held the Bucs to only 10 points. They aren't a great option, but if you start two defenses, you could do worse.
12/18/2005
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Saints DST thumped again
News: The Saints allowed 27 points and 326 yards in Week 15 vs. Carolina in Week 15. They did add an interception and a sack.
Analysis: The Saints DST is not a recommended option in Fantasy Football.
12/15/2005
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Howard out for the season
News: The Times-Picayune reports Saints head coach Jim Haslett said DE Darren Howard (knee) will not play again this season. Haslett also revealed that Howard "probably won't be back with us next year because of salary-cap reasons."
Analysis: The Saints DST is not a recommended option in most leagues.
12/15/2005
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Darren Howard questionable
News: DE Darren Howard (knee) is listed as questionable for Week 15 against Carolina. He missed last week's loss to Atlanta due to the ailment. CB Jason Craft (toe) and LB Sedrick Hodge (ankle) are also questionable.
Analysis: Regardless of these injuries, the Saints DST is not a recommended option in most leagues.
12/13/2005
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Saints DST allows 36 points
News: The Saints DST allowed 36 points and 406 total net yards in Week 14 at Atlanta. They also did not record any sacks or fumble recoveries and had just one interception. On the injury front, DE Darren Howard (knee) was inactive, but DB Steve Gleason (neck) was able to go.
Analysis: The Saints are not a recommended Fantasy unit for Week 15 when the division rival Panthers pay a visit to Baton Rouge.
12/9/2005
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Howard listed as questionable
News: Darren Howard (knee) did not practice Thursday and is listed as questionable for Week 14.
Analysis: Regardless of Howard's status, the Saints DST is not a recommended option in most leagues.
12/4/2005
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Saints hold Bucs to 10 points
News: The New Orleans Saints held the Tampa Bay Buccaneers to 10 points and 248 yards in Week 13. Their lone sack was recorded by Will Smith, who had five total tackles.
Analysis: The Saints DST is not a recommended Fantasy unit for Week 14 at Atlanta.
11/28/2005
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Saints only register one sack
News: The Saints recorded just one sack and failed to force a turnover in a Week 12 win over the Jets. The special teams failed to procude any significant return yardage.
Analysis: The Saints DST unit is not recommended for Week 13 when they host the Bucs.
11/20/2005
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Saints record three sacks
News: The Saints DST recorded three sacks at New England in Week 11, adding two fumble recoveries.
Analysis: The DST might be useful at the Jets in Week 12 since their offense is so inept.
11/18/2005
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Dwight Smith practices
News: According to reports, S Dwight Smith (calf) returned to practice Thursday but remains listed as questionable for Week 11. In other news, LB Courtney Watson (knee) has not practiced this week and is also questionable. Rookie LB Alfred Fincher might replace Watson is needed.
Analysis: The Saints DST is not a recommended option in most Fantasy Football leagues.
11/12/2005
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Saints CB arrested for DWI
News: New Orleans Saints CB Fakhir Brown was arrested on a charge of driving while intoxicated, the team said Friday. Brown, who was arrested Wednesday, is the second Saints player to face a DWI charge in San Antonio in two weeks. Linebacker Courtney Watson was charged with drunken driving on Oct. 26.
Analysis: The troubles don't seem to have any end in sight for the Saints. Brown didn't have any value in IDP leagues anyway, but stay away from the Saints DST. They seem to have been hit by some Cajun Voodoo plot or something.
News: The Saints DST allowed 20 points and 314 total net yards in Week 9 against the Bears. They also posted two sacks, two interceptions and a fumble recovery.
Analysis: The Saints will have a bye before returning for Week 11 at New England. They will not be a recommended Fantasy unit in that difficult matchup.
11/1/2005
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LB Slaughter out two weeks
News: The New Orleans Times-Picayune reports that LB T.J. Slaughter (pulled abdominal muscle) is expected to miss at least two weeks. And CB Mike McKenzie (shoulder) is day to day.
Analysis: The Saints DST should be avoided in Fantasy play for the most part. Neither Slaughter or McKenzie are worth starting in IDP leagues either.
10/30/2005
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Saints DST unproductive again
News: The Saints registered just two sacks and one INT in a 21-6 loss to the Dolphins in Week 8.
Analysis: The Saints host the offensively-challenged Bears in Week 9 in Baton Rouge. They could be a decent option in larger formats based on the matchup.
10/23/2005
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Saints D stinks at STL
News: New Orleans' DST unit was responsible for one sack, a forced fumble and a fumble recovery at St. Louis in Week 7. They allowed 28 points.
Analysis: The Saints DST is not worth a roster spot in most leagues.
10/16/2005
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Saints DST struggles
News: New Orleans' DST unit had one sack, one interception and that's all in Week 6 vs. Atlanta.
Analysis: New Orleans' DST should not start at St. Louis in Week 7.
10/13/2005
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Saints DST hampered with injuries
News: LB James Allen (knee), CB Fakhir Brown (knee) and DE Darren Howard (knee) are listed as questionable for Week 6 against Atlanta.
Analysis: Howard is a top Fantasy option in IDP leagues, so unless it is certain he won't play, he's worth keeping in your starting lineup. Allen and Brown are not worth starting in most IDP leagues. The Saints DST gave up a ton of points to Green Bay and should only be considered against very favorable matchups in Fantasy play, but not this week.
10/9/2005
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Saints DST gets murdered
News: The Saints DST allowed 52 points and didn't record a single sack, interception or forced fumble in Sunday's loss to the Green Bay Packers.
Analysis: The Saints DST is not worth a roster spot in most leagues.
10/2/2005
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Saints DST fantastic vs. Bills
News: The Saints defense allowed only seven points and 208 total net yards in Week 4 against the Bills in San Antonio. The Saints also produced four sacks, an interception and a forced fumble.
Analysis: The Saints have picked up 11 sacks over the past two games. They are a recommended Fantasy unit for Week 5 against the Packers in Lambeau Field.
9/27/2005
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DB Bellamy out for the year
News: DB Jay Bellamy has been placed on injured reserve due to an injury to his rotator cuff. He will have season-ending surgery. "It's going to be hard to replace him," coach Jim Haslett told the San Antonio Express-News. "It puts a little stress on the secondary."
Analysis: Rookie Josh Bullocks is expected to step into the starting lineup in Week 4 against the Bills in his absence. Despite the loss of Bellamy, the Saints should be a strong play against J.P. Losman and the Bills.
9/25/2005
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Saints get seven sacks
News: The Saints DST racked up the sacks, pulling down Daunte Culpepper seven times in Week 3.
Analysis: Believe it or not, the Saints could be a sleeper DST unit in Week 4 when they host the inept Bills offense in San Antonio.
9/20/2005
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Saints DST allow 27 points
News: The Saints allowed 27 points and 257 total net yards in Monday's game against the Giants. The Saints did not force a fumble, sack or intercept Eli Manning.
Analysis: The Saints will travel to Minnesota for a game against the Vikings. Despite the ineptitude of the Vikings offense to this point, the Saints defense is still not a recommended Fantasy unit.
9/11/2005
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Saints D shaky vs. Carolina
News: The Saints defense allowed 20 points, but did pick off Jake Delhomme twice and recover two fumbles against the Panthers in Week 1.
Analysis: The Saints DST should not be utilized except in bye-week replacement situations.
7/31/2005
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CB McKenzie stays with Saints
News: The New Orleans Times-Picayune is reporting CB Mike McKenzie has agreed to a five-year contract with the Saints.
Analysis: McKenzie's signing shores up one of the weaker points on the New Orleans defense. They should still only be considered as a No. 2 Fantasy defense in most formats.
7/28/2005
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Saints sign two rookies
News: The New Orleans Saints have agreed to contracts with second-round pick Josh Bullocks and third-rounder Alfred Fincher. Bullocks is a safety from Nebraska and Fincher was a three-year starter at linebacker for Connecticut.
Analysis: The Saints DST has some talented atheltes, but it warrants little attention in most drafts.
7/25/2005
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Saints release Derrick Rodgers
News: The Times-Picyaune reports the New Orleans Saints have released Derrick Rodgers, who has been slow to recover from back surgery.
Analysis: Looks for LB Colby Bockwoldt to see a more prominent role in the Saints defense this season. This unit still has little value in drafts.
3/7/2005
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Saints ink Dwight Smith
News: According to reports, the New Orleans Saints have signed Smith to a five-year contract worth $15 million, including a $3.5 million signing bonus.
Analysis: Smith recorded 83 total tackles and three interceptions with Tampa Bay last season.
12/26/2004
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Saints return favor on Atlanta
News: The Saints beat the Falcons 26-13 in Week 16, revenging a 21-24 loss to Atlanta in Week 12. Michael Lewis' 96-yard kickoff return with 5:32 left in the fourth quarter sealed the third straight victory for New Orleans.
Analysis: New Orleans has little Fantasy value as a D/ST. The Saints travel to Carolina in Week 17.
12/20/2004
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S Mel Mitchell injured
News: The New Orleans Times-Picayune reports Mitchell injured his groin in Week 15.
Analysis: He will be re-evaluated on Wednesday.
12/12/2004
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Saints DST allow 13 points
News: The Saints DST allowed 13 points with three sacks and two interceptions in Sunday's 27-13 win over Dallas.
Analysis: This is not a recommended unit in the Fantasy postseason.
12/9/2004
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CB Ashley Ambrose to I-R
News: The New Orleans Times-Picayune reports Ambrose (knee) is headed to injured reserve.
Analysis: He will miss the rest of the season.
12/5/2004
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Saints DST allow 32 points
News: The New Orleans DST allowed 401 yards to the Panthers Sunday. The unit also tallied four sacks and no turnovers.
Analysis: The Saints DST is not worth starting in Week 14 at Dallas.
12/2/2004
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Rodgers on I-R
News: The New Orleans Times-Picayune reports the Saints will place Derrick Rodgers (neck) on injured reserve.
Analysis: In other news, KR Michael Lewis (ankle) did not practice Wednesday and is listed as questionable. LB Colby Bockwoldt (shoulder) practiced and is expected to start.
11/24/2004
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Jones listed as probable
News: The Saints official website reports FS Tebucky Jones (groin) is listed as probable for Week 12.
Analysis: The Saints DST is not a recommended option at Atlanta.
11/23/2004
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CB McKenzie questionable
News: According to the New Orleans Times-Picayune, Mike McKenzie (knee) is questionable for Week 12.
Analysis: In other news, LB Derrick Rodgers (back) is doubtful.
11/19/2004
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McKenzie misses practice
News: The New Orleans Times-Picayune reports CB Mike McKenzie (knee) and ST captain Steve Gleason (hamstring) did not practice Thursday and remain questionable for Week 11.
Analysis: In other news, LB Derrick Rodgers (back) remains doubtful.
News: The Saints DST allowed 20 points with two sacks and two interceptions in Sunday's win over Kansas City.
Analysis: This is not a recommended unit for Week 11 against Denver.
11/12/2004
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Whitehead close to return
News: The New Orleans Times-Picayune reports there is a 90 percent chance that DL Willie Whitehead will come off the reserve/injured list and be active for Week 10.
Analysis: Saints officials will have to release a player to make room for Whitehead on the 53-man roster.
11/11/2004
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CB Ambrose practices
News: The New Orleans Times-Picayune reports CB Ashley Ambrose (knee) and LB Courtney Watson (knee) returned to practice on Wednesday. Ambrose is listed as questionable for Week 10.
Analysis: In other news, DL Willie Whitehead practiced for the first time and hopes to be activated for Sunday's game.
11/9/2004
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CB Ambrose questionable
News: The New Orleans Times-Picaynue reports CB Ashley Ambrose (knee) is questionable for Week 10.
Analysis: In other news, LB Courtney Watson (knee) ran for the first time Monday and is expected to practice Wednesday.
11/4/2004
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DE Darren Howard practices
News: The New Orleans Times-Picayune reports Howard (knee) returned to practice on a limited basis Wednesday. He is listed as questionable for Week 9.
Analysis: In other news, LB Courtney Watson (knee) did not practice and is listed as questionable. CB Ashley Ambrose (knee) practiced and is listed as probable.
11/3/2004
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DL Grant is NFC sack leader
News: DL Charles Grant will lead the Saints defense against the Chargers in San Diego in Week 9. He has 7 1/2 sacks, one behind the NFL leader John Abraham.
Analysis: The Saints are not a great Fantasy option for this matchup. Drew Brees and the Chargers offense has been clicking lately, but LaDainian Tomlinson might miss this game. If L.T. is out, the Saints become a decent Fantasy option.
10/24/2004
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LB Rodgers to start
News: The New Orleans LTimes-Picayune reports LB Derrick Rodgers (ribs) is expected to start in Week 7.
Analysis: In other news, DE Darren Howard (knee) and CB Ashley Ambrose (knee) are out.
10/21/2004
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CB Brown, DE Smith to start
News: The New Orleans Times-Picayune reports CB Fakhir Brown and DE Will Smith are expected to replace injured CB Ashley Ambrose (knee) and DE Darren Howard (knee) in Week 7.
Analysis: In other news, LB Derrick Rodgers (rib) is questionable.
10/19/2004
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Saints lose Howard, Ambrose
News: The New Orleans Times-Picayune reports DE Darren Howard and CB Ashley Ambrose are expected to to be out with injuries for Week 7.
Analysis: Saints coach Jim Haslett said Howard underwent arthroscopic surgery Monday to remove a piece of loose cartilage, and Ambrose suffered a slight tear of the posterior cruciate ligament in his left knee.
10/18/2004
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Saints defense shelled by Vikings
News: The New Orleans defense allowed an astounding 605 net yards and 38 points in Week 6 against the Vikings.
Analysis: Even against a terrible Oakland offense in Week 7, the Saints are not a recommended Fantasy defense.
10/14/2004
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CB Mike McKenzie to start
News: According to the New Orleans Times-Picayune, McKenzie will start in Week 6.
Analysis: In other news, LB Derrick Rodgers (chest, ribs) did not practice on Wednesday and is listed as questionable.
10/13/2004
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Saints shake up secondary
News: The New Orleans Times-Picayune reports CB Ashley Ambrose will move to right cornerback and start in Week 6 against the Vikings.
Analysis: CB Fred Thomas is expected to be used as a nickleback, while CB Mike McKenzie (hamstring) is expected to start at left corner. The Saints defense is not a recommended unit against Daunte Culpepper, Randy Moss and the Vikings in Week 6.
10/12/2004
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CB Mike McKenzie to play
News: The New Orleans Times-Picayune reports McKenzie (hamstring) is expected to play in Week 6. However, he will be listed as questionable.
Analysis: In other news, LB Courtney Watson (knee) had an MRI that revealed no structural damage. He is also questionable.
10/10/2004
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Saints can't hold Bucs
News: New Orleans couldn't stop the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in Week 5. Reserve quarterback Brian Griese led the Bucs to a 20-17 win.
Analysis: The Saints have one of the worst defenses in the NFL and have very little Fantasy appeal. New Orleans plays Minnesota at home on Sunday night in Week 6.
10/8/2004
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LB Courtney Watson out
News: According to the New Orleans Times-Picayune, LB Watson (knee) did not practice on Thursday and likely will miss Sunday's game.
Analysis: In other news, coach Jim Haslett said newly acquired CB Mike McKenzie (hamstring) would not play in Week 5.
10/5/2004
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LB Hodge to return
News: According to the New Orleans Times-Picayune, LB Sedrick Hodge can be activated for Week 5. He completed his four-game suspension for a violation of the league's substance-abuse rules. "We'll see how his conditioning is," coach Jim Haslett said. "I would think he would play."
Analysis: The Saints made room on the roster this week by waiving DE Melvin Williams.
10/3/2004
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Saints defense flamed by Cards
News: The New Orleans Saints defense allowed 373 net yards and 27 points in Week 4 at Arizona. The unit had two sacks and one fumble recovery, but was unable to pick off quarterback Josh McCown. The highlight of the day was a blocked punt for a touchdown in the third quarter.
Analysis: The defensive unit will look to regroup against the winless Buccaneers in Week 5 at the Louisiana Superdome. After being torched by the Cardinals, they are not a recommended unit next Sunday.
9/26/2004
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Saints allow 25 points
News: The Saints DST allowed 25 points in Sunday's overtime win over St. Louis. The unit also posted five sacks and one forced fumble.
Analysis: The Saints DST is a decent option in Week 4 at Arizona.
9/23/2004
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DE Howard practices
News: The New Orleans Times-Picayune reports DE Darren Howard (neck) worked with the first team on Wednesday and plans to start Sunday against the St. Louis Rams. "I thought (Howard) was OK," coach Jim Haslett said. "We'll look at him on film and see how his neck held up. We'll go from there and see how he feels (Thursday)."
Analysis: In other news, CB Jason Craft returned to practice for the first time since he sprained his right ankle against Chicago in the third week of preseason. He is listed as questionable.
9/19/2004
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Saints D hangs on
News: The Saints held off the 49ers late to escape with a 30-27 win in Week 2.
Analysis: New Orleans had actually surrended the lead before Aaron Brooks saved the day. They are not a recommended Fantasy option at this point. The Saints play the Rams in Week 3.
9/17/2004
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DE Howard cleared to play
News: According to the New Orleans Times-Picayune, Darren Howard (neck) has been cleared to play in Week 2. However, coach Jim Haslett might still keep him out against San Francisco. Howard participated in practice on a limited basis but has not worked in team drills this week. DT Brian Young was downgraded from probable to questionable with a strained left hip flexor.
Analysis: In other news, DT Johnathan Sullivan was added to the injury report as probable with a strained wrist. NT Howard Green has a sprained ankle but is expected to start. CB Jason Craft (ankle) hopes to return to practice next week.
9/16/2004
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DE Howard misses practice
News: According to the Baton Rouge Advocate, DE Darren Howard (neck) and CB Jason Craft (ankle) did not participate in Wednesday's practice. DT Brian Young (hip flexor) was able to work out.
Analysis: Coach Jim Haslett said Howard and Craft are questionable for Week 2, while Young is probable.
9/12/2004
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DE Darren Howard out
News: DE Howard missed Week 1 due to a bulging disc next to his spinal column. The Saints DST allowed 21 points without Howard in a 21-7 loss to Seattle.
Analysis: The Saints DST is only worth starting in leagues with 12-plus teams.
9/9/2004
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DE Howard has "slim" chance
News: According to the New Orleans Times-Picyaune, DE Darren Howard has a "slim" chance to play on Sunday.
Analysis: Rookie Will Smith will step in for Howard, who has a bulging disc next to his spinal column.
9/1/2004
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LB Cie Grant goes on I-R
News: The New Orleans Times-Picayune reports Grant (knee) has been placed on injured reserve. "We just felt it was best to rest him and start from square one with him," coach Jim Haslett said. "He's got to get his leg stronger and protect his one knee. He just needs to let it settle down and start from the beginning again."
Analysis: Grant will miss the entire 2003 season.
News: According to the New Orleans Times-Picayune, Keyuo Craver is expected to be suspended for one year by the NFL. "I'm more disappointed in the person himself than for our football team," Saints coach Jim Haslett said. "We put a lot of trust as a football team in a guy like that, and it didn't work out."
Analysis: The Saints defense/special teams is worth a late-round flier in leagues with 12-plus teams.
8/20/2004
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New Orleans releases Ross
News: According to the New Orleans Times-Picayune, the Saints did an about-face Thursday and released CB Derek Ross just one day after claiming him off waivers. In other news, LB Sedrick Hidge has been suspended four games by the NFL.
Analysis: Ross reportedly missed a meeting with coach Jim Haslett, which resulted in his release.
8/19/2004
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Saints ink CB Derek Ross
News: According to the New Orleans Times-Picayune the Saints have signed Ross.
Analysis: Ross played between Dallas and New Orleans last season.
8/18/2004
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Saints defense injury update
News: The team's official website reports DL Kenny Smith suffered a major shoulder injury during practice on Tuesday and will miss the season. He is slated for surgery later this week and will be placed on injured reserve.
Analysis: On a less serious note, FS Tebucky Jones was unable to practice on Tuesday due to a groin injury and DE Darren Howard has been slowed by a knee injury which did not allow him to practice on Tuesday. If key personnel on the Saints defense can stay healthy throughout the preseason and rookie DL Will Smith emerges as a force, the New Orleans defense might re-emerge as a decent option in most Fantasy leagues.
7/31/2004
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Saints get DE Smith in the fold
News: The New Orleans Saints agreed to terms with first-round pick Will Smith on Saturday.
Analysis: The presence of Smith will bolster the defensive line for the Saints, making them an attractive defensive unit in larger Fantasy leagues.
6/14/2004
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Saints defense injury news
News: The Saints will be missing a few players for the team's minicamp June 15-17 according to the New Orleans Times-Picayune. The team is expected to be without DE Darren Howard due to an ankle injury. DE Willie Whitehead will also be out due to a knee injury.
Analysis: The team will also be without rookie DT Rodney Leisle. He will not graduate from UCLA until July 18. The club is also expected to add LB Dan Curran and DB Monty Montgomery from the Arena Football League, although it is possible Curran could compete at the fullback position as well.
10/28/2003
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Kenny Smith questionabe
News: According to the New Orleans Times-Picyaune, DL Kenny Smith (knee), DL Kenderick Allen (knee) and LB Sedrick Hodge (leg) will be evaluated on a daily basis. They are all considered questionable for Week 9.
Analysis: The Saints defense is not worth starting in most Fantasy leagues.
10/26/2003
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Grady Jackson likely out
News: The New Orleans Times-Picayune reports Jackson (finger) is not expected to play in Week 8.
Analysis: Kenny Smith will replace Jackson.
10/23/2003
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Michael Lewis set to play
News: Lewis (groin) is listed as probable for Sunday's game against Carolina.
Analysis: The Saints' return game should receive a boost with this news.
10/19/2003
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KR/PR Lewis able to play
News: Michael Lewis (groin) was able to play at Atlanta.
Analysis: Lewis has been a disappointment as a returner so far this year. He had a long of 25 yards on kick returns and 13 on punt returns against Atlanta.
10/18/2003
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Michael Lewis hopes to play
News: The New Orleans Times-Picayune reports that Lewis (groin) alternated returns in practice on Friday and hopes to play Sunday at Atlanta.
Analysis: Lewis will help the Saints special teams immensely if he is able to play. If not, Donte Stallworth will start in his absence.
9/24/2003
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CB Carter out four more weeks
News: Dale Carter will miss another four games while recovering from surgery to repair his left orbital socket, according to the New Orleans Times-Picayune.
Analysis: The loss of Carter further weakens the Saints pass defense, and the unit is not recommnded for starting purposes in most Fantasy leagues right now.
9/18/2003
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Dale Carter has surgery
News: The New Orleans Times-Picayune reports Carter had successful surgery Wednesday to repair a fractured orbital socket. Doctors inserted a titanium plate in the socket to strengthen the broken bone under Carter's left eye. DT Johnathan Sullivan underwent arthroscopic surgery Monday to repair cartilage damage in his left knee. He is expected to miss three weeks. The team released DB Leonard Myers and signed DE Greg White to the practice squad.
Analysis: The Saints defense has been riddled with injuries, making it tough to start this unit from a Fantasy perspective.
9/16/2003
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Saints sign S Victor Green
News: New Orleans signed the veteran Green on Tuesday. Terms of the deal were undisclosed.
Analysis: Green will serve as a backup. He has no Fantasy value in individual defender leagues and his addition does not significantly increase the Fantasy value of the defensive unit.
9/16/2003
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Saints defense banged up
News: The New Orleans Times-Picayune reports LB Sedrick Hodge is out for six to eight weeks because of a fractured bone in his right leg. CB Dale Carter is out for three to four weeks with a fractured orbital socket in his left eye, and DT Johnathan Sullivan is out for two to three weeks with cartilage damage in his left knee.
Analysis: These injuries add to an already long list of ailments this unit has suffered. As a result, starting the Saints defense in Week 3 is not advised.
9/9/2003
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Darren Howard undergoes surgery
News: DE Darren Howard (wrist) underwent surgery Monday morning and is expected to be out 10 to 12 weeks. Howard, who was injured in Week 1 against Seattle, had pins inserted to stabilize two bones in his wrist. He will be replaced in the starting lineup by Willie Whitehead. LB Derrick Rodgers (suspension) was reinstated, so LB Travis Carroll was released to make room on the roster. DE Charles Grant (calf) and DT Johnathan Sullivan (wrist) are both probable for Week 2.
Analysis: The Saints defense is worth starting in larger Fantasy leagues against Houston in Week 2.
9/5/2003
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Darren Howard still doubtful
News: The New Orleans Times-Picayune reports that Howard (knee) practiced on Thursday, but tweaked the injury near the end of the workout. "It'll be day to day with him, all the way up until gametime," coach Jim Haslett said.
Analysis: Regardless of Howard's status, starting the Saints defense in Week 1 is a gamble.
9/2/2003
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Saints defense banged up
News: According to the New Orleans Times-Picayune, LBs Mel Mitchell (knee) and Derrick Rodgers (suspension) are out. DE Darren Howard, who led the Saints with eight sacks last season, is doubtful with a bruised bone in his right knee. DE Charles Grant is also hobbled with a strained calf muscle and will be listed as questionable.
Analysis: These injuries make the Saints defense far less appealing as a starting unit from a Fantasy perspective.
8/29/2003
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Saints SS out for the season
News: Saints SS Mel Mitchell suffered a season-ending left knee injury in Thursday's preseason finale. Jay Bellamy will now start in his place. "Jay knows the defense better than I do, so we'll be OK," free safety Tebucky Jones told the New Orleans Times-Picayune.
Analysis: The Saints won't have a reliable Fantasy defensive unit this sseason. Bellamy is experienced, but is better against the run than the pass.
7/25/2003
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Saints add veteran DT
News: The Saints signed DT Henry Ford to a two-year deal.
Analysis: Ford gives New Orleans good defensive line depth. But the Saints won't rank among the better units in Fantasy Football this season.
