NFL analysts rank Saints front seven as the second-best in the NFC South

Jan 1, 2023; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA; New Orleans Saints defensive end Carl Granderson (96), defensive tackle Shy Tuttle (99), defensive tackle David Onyemata (93), linebacker Demario Davis (56), linebacker Kaden Elliss (55) and defensive end Cameron Jordan (94) against the Philadelphia Eagles at Lincoln Financial Field. Mandatory Credit: Eric Hartline-USA TODAY Sports

NFL Network analysts and "Move The Sticks" podcast hosts Bucky Brooks and Daniel Jeremiah each picked the New Orleans Saints' front seven as the second-best in the NFC South.

“I can’t say that there’s a group that really separates themselves from the pack," Brooks said, reinforcing how close each team's units are.

There was agreement on the Tampa Buccaneers and Atlanta Falcons, who fell first and last in each analyst’s rankings. That’s where the conversation was focused. New Orleans has a stronger perception than their Carolina Panthers counterparts, and the Falcons, but no team stands head-and-shoulders above the rest.

The Saints' front seven is driven by their linebacker corps. Demario Davis is the best player on the defense at any level. His consistent high level of play and availability earn him this honor. Pete Werner and Willie Gay had down years last season, but both have played well enough in the past to cause belief they’ll bounce back.

This will be the best trio of linebackers the Saints have had in a while. They struggled against the run last season, so it wouldn’t be surprising to see New Orleans deploy more three-linebacker sets than usual.

For all of the criticism around the defensive line, the potential remains there. Bryan Bresee and Isaiah Foskey move into Year 2. Foskey didn’t play much as a rookie but has the chance to earn a big spot in the rotation.

Chase Young comes in as well. This addition has the highest potential benefit for the Saints front seven. This addition mixed with players on the interior and edge stepping up could lead to the Saints front seven being the best in the division by season's end.

This article originally appeared on Saints Wire: NFL analysts rank Saints front seven as the second-best in the NFC South