Niner Noise
FanSided

The top NFL player to watch from each team in 2017

By Peter Panacy

Jan 22, 2017; Atlanta, GA, USA; Green Bay Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers (12) throws against the Atlanta Falcons during the second quarter in the 2017 NFC Championship Game at the Georgia Dome. Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 22, 2017; Atlanta, GA, USA; Green Bay Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers (12) throws against the Atlanta Falcons during the second quarter in the 2017 NFC Championship Game at the Georgia Dome. Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-USA TODAY Sports /
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Apr 27, 2017; Philadelphia, PA, USA; Ohio State Buckeyes receiver Marshon Lattimore poses after being selected as the number 11 overall pick by the New Orleans Saints in the first round the 2017 NFL Draft at the Philadelphia Museum of Art. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports
Apr 27, 2017; Philadelphia, PA, USA; Ohio State Buckeyes receiver Marshon Lattimore poses after being selected as the number 11 overall pick by the New Orleans Saints in the first round the 2017 NFL Draft at the Philadelphia Museum of Art. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports /

New Orleans Saints — Cornerback Marshon Lattimore

Yes, the New Orleans Saints are almost entirely predicated on quarterback Drew Brees and their prolific offense.

But the one element that has been largely absent from their last few NFL campaigns has been the defense. Especially the secondary

The Saints addressed this by adding former Ohio State cornerback Marshon Lattimore at No. 11 overall in the 2017 NFL Draft. Lattimore was the clear-cut best corner in this year’s deep draft class, and the Saints were more than wise in picking him up.

It would have been nice to see New Orleans add a few more pass-rushers up front, taking some of the pressure off Lattimore.

Still, his coverage skills are exemplary. And if he can emerge as a true shutdown corner this season, the Saints will take some notable strides in getting a laughable defense back on track.