New Orleans Saints 2009 Starting Linebackers Prediction

The Saints linebacking corps hasn't changed much this offseason. I have always felt that it has been a solid group.

We have brought in some solid depth at the LB position and players who could compete for the starting position.

I honestly feel this linebacking corps can take us to the playoffs, with the obvious leader being Jonathan Vilma.

Many people complain about the lack of sacks the linebacking corps has recently managed, but we have not blitzed as much.

I hope they bloom in Gregg Williams’ new system.

Middle Linebacker: Jonathan Vilma

Jonathan Vilma had a Pro Bowl performance in 2008.

Coming off of a knee injury, many questioned how effective Vilma would be. However, he proved to be worth the third round pick the Saints gave to the Jets for him.

Vilma is definitely the leader of the linebacking corps and should be the captain for the defense.

He closed a game for us against San Diego with an interception. He's also been a solid tackler and can play with the best of the running backs in the NFC South.

A lot will be asked from Vilma in Williams’ defense. He will likely make play calls and play every snap.

Strong Side Linebacker: Scott Fujita

Scott Fujita is one of the few starters from the 2006 season left.

Fujita is a solid OLB and solid in coverage. He did not record any sacks in 2008, but had 6.5 sacks in the 2006 and 2007 seasons.

Fujita is the only linebacker who managed multiple picks in the 2008 season. One was a game-winner against Tampa.

Weak Side Linebacker: Scott Shanle or Dan Morgan

This was the hardest to select.

Scott Shanle recorded two sacks for the Saints in the 2008 season. He played well in the 2006 Saints’ defense, recording four sacks.

The Saints want play makers, but in three seasons, Shanle has yet to intercept a pass.

Shanle is good, but I do not think he is an every-down linebacker, though I would like to see more from him.

Dan Morgan is coming out of retirement as a solid contender for the starting 2009 OLB spot.

Morgan is a tackling machine when healthy and is probably one of the best linebackers against the run.

No one knows the condition Morgan is in, although he says rest has made his body feel a lot better. That may help him completely finish a season for the first time.

Morgan is a former first-rounder out of Miami and currently holds the record for tackles at the university. He has five career interceptions and can play every down.

If Morgan can come back to his performance from 2004, where he rallied up 101 tackles, two sacks, and two picks in just 12 games, he could beat out Fujita for his position.

Morgan, a former Carolina Panther, will be playing with a chip on his shoulder after being released by the Panthers. He could be a solid contributor in stopping the two-headed-monster running game for New Orleans, the Panthers’ NFC South rivals.

Honestly, I feel the Saints linebacking corps is very solid.

We need the linebacking corps to perform at its best. I feel it is the heart of every defense and we will rely on this unit to get after the quarterback on the blitz and to help shut down the potent run game that every NFC South team has.

Part Three of my predictions will be here soon. Thank you for reading. I would enjoy your opinions!