NEW ORLEANS SAINTS (7-9)
OPEN CAMP: July 27, New Orleans Saints headquarters, Metairie, Louisiana.
LAST YEAR: New Orleans was competitive in most games thanks to league-leading offense run by QB Drew Brees, but posted third consecutive 7-9 record because porous defense and some game-turning special teams blunders. Lack of depth on defense was exposed by injuries to CBs P.J. Williams and Delvin Breaux; club’s top 2016 draft choice, DT Sheldon Rankins; top LB Dannell Ellerbe; and speedy edge pass rusher Hau’oli Kikaha. Saints struggled to pressure opposing QBs, and by extension, maintain coverage on receivers. Offensively, Saints have been elite since pairing of coach Sean Payton and Brees in 2006.