All signs this offseason pointed to the New Orleans Saints being Super Bowl contenders.
The offense last year was one of the best in the NFL, which has typically been the case since quarterback Drew Brees and coach Sean Payton arrived in 2006. The defense showed significant improvement last season, and the team seemed to upgrade a few positions in free agency.
The Saints have star power with Brees, Michael Thomas, Alvin Kamara, Cameron Jordan and Marshon Lattimore. They have experienced depth and role players. The coaching staff didn't have any notable turnover.
That was all well and good until the season began Sunday (Sept.