The New Orleans Saints are undoubtedly one of the best teams in the NFC, and one of the top contenders to win the Super Bowl in the 2020 season.
Despite faltering in the playoffs last year, the Saints made a number of key moves in the offseason. They signed Emmanuel Sanders to be the No. 2 receiver opposite Michael Thomas, and also brought in veteran safety Malcolm Jenkins to provide some leadership in the secondary.
On paper, the Saints are one of the deepest teams in football. Drew Brees makes the most of his offensive weapons, and that unit should be even more dangerous with Sanders lining up all over the field. Defensively, New Orleans boasts one of the strongest front sevens in the NFL.
However, despite the addition of Jenkins, the Saints could still use more quality depth in the secondary.
Taking a step back
Cornerback Marshon Lattimore had a wonderful rookie season in 2017, one which resulted in him being named to the Pro Bowl.
Lattimore has still been one of the best players at his position over the course of the last two years, and he made the Pro Bowl once again in 2020. But he has also become prone to giving up big plays downfield.
The 24-year-old racked up 14 passes defended last season, with opposing quarterbacks completing just 50 percent of their pass attempts when targeting his side of the field. He also gave up nearly 14 yards per reception and three touchdowns, resulting in a somewhat underwhelming Pro Football Focus coverage grade.
New Orleans still believes in Lattimore as its lockdown corner. But he still has a ways to go before reaching the same level as the Stephon Gilmore's of the world.
Is Janoris Jenkins the answer?
Jenkins had a stellar year in 2019, posting a career-high five interceptions to go along with 16 passes defended and a PFF grade over 80 for the season.
Much of that time was spent with the New York Giants. Jenkins played his first 13 games with the G-Men, but he was waived in December. The Saints were quick to pounce, and now will hope the veteran can hold down the corner spot opposite Lattimore.
Jenkins might have excelled this past year, but he also gave up six touchdowns in coverage in 2018. He is very prone to inconsistency.
The Saints cannot afford a poor season from Jenkins, particularly considering depth pieces like P.J. Williams and Chauncey Gardner-Johnson struggled immensely in 2019.
Safety depth
Perhaps the Saints will look to exploit some of their depth at safety.
Aside from the addition of Malcolm Jenkins, New Orleans still has the likes of D.J. Swearinger and Marcus Williams roaming over the top. Williams' abilities in coverage should give Jenkins plenty of opportunity to play up in the box and rush the quarterback.
It is also possible one of these guys plays more of a nickel role. The Saints lost Eli Apple in free agency, and might be able to use safety depth to make up for deficiencies at the corner spot.
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