Broughton's Injury, Saints' DT Future

On April 1st, the New Orleans Saints have struggled at defensive tackles since grabbing Brian

Bersi in the first round a couple years back.

They haven't poured much cash or picks into that spot, leaving the room thin and underpowered.

Bersi's solid on pass rush, but not elite across the board.

So heading into drafts, it was a glaring need.

Last year, they finally dipped in with the 71st overall pick, snagging Vernon Broaden from

Texas to be things up.

When Brandon Staley's defense, they run three defensive tackles on the field.

Most snaps, sometimes sliding edge guys over.

Bersi fits as that three-four defensive end type, and after trading for Devon Godshow,

they've got a true nose tackle locked in.

Broaden slots in for the other end spot, giving real depth if he pans out.

Fans and analysts were hyped when Broaden debuted in week two, after sitting week one.

He flashed some promise in that role, looking raw but athletic, especially reuniting

with his old Texas coach, Bo Davis.

The impact could reshape the line, easing pressure on Bersi and boosting the whole front.

But disaster struck, Broaden got hurt that same game and shut down for the season.

It's a tough break, basically resetting his clock, but this offseason gives him prime

time to bulk up and refine his game.

It brought in hits as a starter next year, the St.D. line levels up big, maybe even pricing

out Bersi long term.

Still, they got to keep drafting here, grabbing a rookie to back Godshow and plan ahead.

Eyes on 2026 for the payoff.

That's the story for today, NFL News Today, Driven by AI.

I'm Corey with The Story.