Pete Werner has 18 tackles in two games, including 11 tackles, a sack, a tackle for loss and a quarterback hit in the Saints’ 24-17 win over Baltimore. After Demario Davis left in free agency, Werner is emerging as a possible defensive leader; he faces the Raiders Sunday.
Werner had seven tackles, a tackle for loss and a quarterback hit in the season-opening overtime loss to Detroit. Coach Kellen Moore said Werner is trusting himself and playing quickly, while defensive coordinator Brandon Staley credited his move to the middle with helping unlock his game. Davis spent eight seasons with New Orleans, earned five All-Pro selections and played alongside Werner for five seasons before leaving in free agency.
The Saints are 1-1 entering Sunday’s home opener; the Raiders are 2-0. New Orleans ranks 26th against the run, allowing 136.5 yards per game, while Las Vegas averages 93.5 rushing yards per game. The Saints gave up 156 rushing yards to Detroit’s Jahmyr Gibbs in Week 1.
