Saints Training Camp Battles: Could Anyone Challenge Pete Werner?

Saints third-year linebacker will face challengers during training camp, but unlikely will be unseated.

Pete Werner is a tackling machine when paired with All-Pro linebacker and defensive leader Demario Davis. During his first year as a professional football player, the 2021 second-round draft pick played in 15 games and started in eight. He recorded 62 tackles, only missed one and blitzed 12 times.

Werner, 23, has struggled somewhat in pass coverages the previous two seasons by allowing 75% for 6.4 yards per completion in 2021 and 71.8% for 7.6 yards per completion in 2022.

The young linebacker is a skilled and intuitive football player. Last year, he was on track to make 150 tackles but missed six games due to an ankle injury and surgery. Also, Werner successfully defended two passes, had three tackles for loss, and forced two fumbles.

"You're constantly trying to be coachable, you're constantly trying to learn because that's what it takes at this next level — every little piece or tidbit you can get to create an advantage for yourself." Pete Werner

Dennis Allen and the Saints organization have placed great trust in Pete Werner since he entered the league -- but so does his linebacker running mate, Demario Davis.

READ MORE SAINTS NEWS: SAINTS-GRUDEN CONSULTATION, POSITIVES & QUESTIONS

Peter Warner: Credit: USA TODAY Sports

Will Werner Have Serious Challengers?

"He's the best WILL in the league," Demario Davis said last season. Werner works at the WILL (weak side) linebacker position. Although the team listed Andrew Dowell as his backup before his injury, Kaden Elliss played most of the reps and was highly effective. During the offseason, Elliss parlayed his 7-sack season into signing a 3-year, $21.5M contract with the Atlanta Falcons.

Ranking the linebackers behind Werner:

1. D'Marco Jackson - 2nd
2. Andrew Dowell - 3rd
3. Nephi Sewell - 1st
4. Anferenee Orji - Rookie
5. Nick Anderson - Rookie
6. Zack Baun - 4th
7. Ryan Connelly - 4th
8. Ty Summers - 5th

Unless Pete Werner has a subpar training camp, suffers an injury, or another linebacker has an outstanding camp, he will return as the starter in New Orleans. Werner will be eligible for a contract extension in 2024.

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