Saints 2026 training camp preview: Safety group returns intact

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Saints 2026 training camp preview: Safety group returns intact

Saints 2026 training camp preview: Safety group returns intact

Bob Rose , Saints Wire

Thu, Jul 30, 2026 ·

2 min read

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As the New Orleans Saints begin their 2026 training camp, they'll try to build on the momentum from a strong finish to 2025. Arguably the biggest strength on last year's squad was a young secondary that came of age quickly. Safety was a spot that was solid, but comes into 2026 with some question marks. Our training camp previews continue with a look at this position, which could turn out to be a strength or a potential undoing of the defense.

On the roster: Justin Reid, Julian Blackmon, Jonas Sanker, Terrell Burgess, Lorenzo Styles Jr. (rookie), Jordan Howden, Elliott Davison
Offseason losses: N/A
Offseason additions: Lorenzo Styles Jr.

Styles was brought in with a fifth round choice. He's inexperienced as a defensive back, but brings wonderful athleticism, upside, and special teams abilities to the secondary. While not an official ''new'' addition, the return of Blackmon could be a huge boost to the entire defense. The Saints signed Blackmon after the abrupt retirement of Tyrann Mathieu early in training camp. Unfortunately, we never got to see how well he teamed with fellow free agent signing Justin Reid on the back end. Blackmon suffered a labrum injury in Week 1 that would end his season. With him back, it gives the defense a versatile playmaker from either deep safety or the slot.

Justin Reid did not have the year most expected when he was signed in free agency. Reid played much better down the stretch once he was comfortable in the scheme. He and Blackmon have the makings of a very good tandem on the back end. Both players have good instincts and anticipation as deep safeties with the ability to cover the slot or play in the box against the run.

Blackmon's injury opened the door for 2025 third round draft choice Jonas Sanker to get early playing time. Sanker opened eyes with his ability to make big plays and his range. Aside from Blackmon's health, another key question for this position is Sanker himself. After the free agent loss of cornerback Alontae Taylor, Sanker is being given the first chance at replacing him. Sanker doesn't have the coverage skills of Taylor, which is worth watching closely. However, he's a physical player that could also add disruption as a blitzer.

If Sanker struggles in this spot, it forces the Saints to use either Blackmon or a corner in that role. Burgess, Howden, and Davidson will compete to round out the depth chart, but all three are special teamers. There is a significant drop-off should any of the three see extensive playing time. A rapid development of the explosive Styles would certainly strengthen the depth here. However, the key questions for this group are Sanker's development, Blackmon's health, and if Reid can be the player that the Saints targeted during 2025 free agency.