The Saints made it a big point to address their secondary during the offseason. They signed safeties Pierson Prioleau and Darren Sharper and corner back Jabari Greer. New Orleans also used their first pick in the draft on a cornerback, Malcolm Jenkins, and a safety with their next pick, Chip Vaughn. Needless to say, the secondary has been overhauled.

Defensive tackle Hollis Thomas was let go, but Rod Coleman was added. Coleman is an upgrade at tackle, especially against the run. Coleman can be a force in the middle, which is what the Saints need. The Saints also made a change at fullback, letting go of Mike Karney and signing Heath Evans, a more versatile option. Evans can do well in the passing game, giving the Saints another weapon for Drew Brees.

New Orleans continues to boast a powerful passing attack. Brees does a great job of spreading the field and getting multiple receivers involved from week to week. Marques Colston is a true No. 1 receiver and big-play threat. The rest of the receivers aren't too exciting although Lance Moore emerged last season as a legit starter for the Saints. But the rest of the receivers get the job done and fit the scheme well. And don't forget Reggie Bush, who might be the best receiver at running back in the league. This Saints passing attack is potent.

We like the prospects of Pierre Thomas in a starting role, but he isn't a sure thing for the Saints. He had trouble staying healthy even when he wasn't the No. 1 back. And Bush isn't your typical running back, having little success in a featured back role. And after Thomas and Bush, the Saints don't have much. If an injury occurs, the Saints passing game could get an even bigger workout. The running game has some potential, but could also fall flat on it's face this season.

The Saints focused on cornerback for good reason this offseason. They ranked 23rd against the pass last season and 30th the previous season. And while the guys they acquired are sure to help, they still lack that shutdown corner. Greer can be very good, but isn't your typical shutdown, No. 1 cornerback. And after him, the Saints have some guys that gave up some big plays last season. The Saints will be better against the pass with their upgrades, but they aren't going from 23 to 10. This remains a sub par unit.

Their offense is good enough to carry this team to the playoffs, but will need to start faster than last season and avoid injuries. The Saints defense will prevent them from making any type of huge run, though, if they do make the playoffs.