The Eagles last prepared to play the New Orleans Saints in January 2014, when they hosted a first-round playoff game. Worried about New Orleans' passing offense, defensive coordinator Bill Davis played the Eagles' nickel defense more than half of the game.
The Saints ran for 185 yards that night - the fifth-highest total by any team since Davis took over the Eagles defense.
Davis left the game with his mind fortified about something he saw that season. He wanted a safety versatile enough to cover like a cornerback in base defense, but also with the tackling ability required of a safety.