Second-Year Player Could Explain Saints' Offseason Linebacker Strategy

Why didn't New Orleans sign or draft a linebacker this offseason? This second-year LB might provide that answer.

Bob Rose | May 15, 2023

Second-Year Player Could Explain Saints' Offseason Linebacker Strategy /

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New Orleans Saints

New Orleans Saints linebackers Demario Davis and Pete Werner are one of the NFL's finest duos. However, depth is a question for this team at this position. Kaden Elliss left in free agency for a big payday after a breakout season in 2022. Zack Baun, a third-round choice in 2020, has never been a good fit for this defense and is little more than a special teams contributor.

So why didn't the Saints bring in another linebacker in free agency or through the draft? The answer might lie with a 2022 draft choice that has yet to see the field.

D'MARCO JACKSON - LB

Sep 2, 2021; Appalachian State Mountaineers linebacker D'Marco Jackson (52) against the East Carolina Pirates. Mandatory Credit: Jim Dedmon-USA TODAY

Jackson was a fifth-round choice, the 161st overall selection, by New Orleans out of Appalachian State in the 2022 draft. Unfortunately, Jackson was placed on injured reserve early in training camp and missed the entire year.

A terrific athlete, Jackson was among the top linebackers in the 40 (4.55), 10-yard split (1.56), and broad jump (10'5") at the 2022 Scouting Combine. He also brought terrific collegiate production with him into the NFL.

After redshirting his freshman year at Appalachian State, Jackson saw limited time in 2018 as a backup. He'd work his way into regular duty in 2019 and finished with three sacks, 6.5 tackles for loss among 60 total stops, and two passes broken up.

During the 2020 campaign, Jackson tied for the team lead with 91 total tackles, which included 6.5 for loss and 2.5 sacks. He also intercepted two passes and broke up sic others on his way to 1st Team All-Sun Belt Conference honors.

Jackson took his game to yet another level for the Mountaineers in 2021. He'd again lead the team in tackles (119, 56 solo), with his 20 stops for loss among the best in the FBS. Jackson added six sacks and an interception to go along with five pass breakups. He was awarded with the Sun Belt Defensive Player of the Year accolades.

At 6'1" and 233-Lbs., Jackson might be a little undersized for full-time strongside or middle linebacker duties. He lacks the natural strength to take on blockers head-on regularly. He'll struggle at the line against jumbo packages and short yardage situations.

An extremely aggressive player, Jackson can sometimes take himself out of a play. He'll need to be more reliant on his instincts at times, and may struggle to read opposing alignments and tendencies early in his career.

Sep 19, 2020; Appalachian State Mountaineers linebacker D'Marco Jackson (52) breaks up a pass for Marshall Thundering Herd tight end Xavier Gaines (11). Mandatory Credit: Ben Queen-USA TODAY

Despite nice sack numbers in college, Jackson is better off as a delayed or scheme-designed blitzer. He explodes to the ball whether as a pass rusher, run defender, or zone responder. His pursuit is relentless and he has the speed to make plays from sideline-to-sideline.

Jackson packs a punch as a tackler with the motor and desire to be in on every play. He won't back down as a run defender, an area that will improve more with better play diagnosis. His outstanding change-of-direction makes him dangerous on screens and misdirection plays.

Jackson has the speed and agility to stay with any back or tight end in man coverage all over the field. His zone awareness will need improvement, but he has the burst and ball skills to turn big plays for his defense.

D'Marco Jackson brings exactly the kind of athleticism and versatility that the Saints demand from their linebackers. Like Davis and Werner, he has the traits to be a factor against the run, as a blitzer, and in coverage roles.

Oct 19, 2019; Appalachian State Mountaineers linebacker D'Marco Jackson (52) against the Louisiana Monroe Warhawks. Mandatory Credit: Jim Dedmon-USA TODAY Sports

Jackson's size and inexperience might limit him to weakside duties or passing downs early in his career. He has the ability to excel in those responsibilities and on special teams as he earns more snaps. Jackson also has an aggressive playmaking demeanor that might be difficult to keep off the field for long.

Perhaps it's telling that New Orleans didn't sign a free agent or use a draft pick at linebacker this offseason. It's still possible that the Saints bring in a veteran. Kwon Alexander, Rashaan Evans, and Anthony Barr are some talented defenders still available. Unless that happens, it will be up to D'Marco Jackson to take advantage of his opportunity to earn a spot alongside Demario Davis and Pete Werner.

D'MARCO JACKSON - LB

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