With cornerback Paulson Adebo returning to the starting lineup for the New Orleans Saints (you can check the Week 5 inactives report here), the secondary should see a significant improvement.
The coaching staff still has a lot of faith in Adebo’s ability despite the fact that Isaac Yiadom performed admirably in Adebo’s absences (apart from two touchdown passes thrown against his coverage, which were obviously very well-placed balls) due to a hamstring ailment. This week, defensive coordinator Joe Wood dispelled any rumors concerning the second cornerback position by publicly endorsing Adebo.
Adebo must, however, back that up with exceptional play on the field. Penalties are one area he needs to improve.
Despite only playing in two games, he’s been a magnet for coverage fouls, leading the team with three of them. Adebo received two cautions—once for defensive pass interference and twice for defensive holding. He must play with better sportsmanship and refrain from giving up unearned yards to injure his team.
Although Adebo replaces Yiadom, he doesn’t criticize the performance of his backup. In his two games as a starter, Yiadom has made quarterbacks throw into small windows while intercepting a lot of balls (tied for the league lead with 5 passes broken up).
Having playmakers lined up behind Marshon Lattimore like these two (not to mention Alontae Taylor, who is becoming better each week in the slot) is an embarrassment of riches for the Saints, who have a deeper secondary than many other teams. Although they haven’t had much to hang their hats on this season, the cornerback’s performance can’t be faulted.
