sports

Sanker Shines in Rookie Season with Saints

Jonas Sanker had a strong rookie campaign for the New Orleans Saints, starting 16 games and becoming a key contributor to a defense that ranked 4th against the pass and 9th overall.

Selected in the third round (93rd overall) from Virginia, Sanker played 978 defensive snaps (89% of the team's total) after stepping in for injured Julian Blackmon. He recorded 80 total tackles, including 3 for loss, and 2 interceptions while showing excellent range and instincts as a deep safety.

Despite some inconsistencies in coverage and tackling that he'll need to address, Sanker quickly established himself as part of a young secondary that became the team's most consistent defensive unit. His performance helped solidify the Saints' rebuilding efforts on defense.