Demario Davis signing back with the New York Jets this summer no doubt leaves a huge void in the Saints locker room, not only for his play but for his commanding leadership.
Speaking to the media after day 3 of camp, linebacker Pete Werner touched on what he learned from playing alongside Davis and how his own leadership style has developed over his five years in the NFL.
“Being in this system, you start to develop a voice and you want to be a guy that the guys can rely on.”
Pete Werner says that he’s always been a “lead by example” type of leader but his style of leadership has changed to being more vocal. He mentions playing w/ Demario Davis. pic.twitter.com/GbXsXsQSMz
— Meagan Glover (@MeaganGTV) July 31, 2026
“Second year in the [Brandon] Staley defense, you start to develop a little confidence,” said Werner.
The former Ohio State Buckeye mentioned his excitement to be reunited with Kaden Elliss, who returns to New Orleans after three seasons in Atlanta, but also made a point about the departing vet. “We miss a guy like Demario; that’s gonna be a guy that’s hard to replace.”
“I’ve always been a guy that’s, you know, lead by example,” said Werner. “But being in this system, you start to develop a voice, and you want to be a guy that the guys can rely on. And I see myself in that position, not only making plays on the field but helping guys off the field and uniting this defense together.”
With Davis’ exit, the linebacker room has lost its leader. Werner embracing the challenge of stewardship among his peers could go a long way toward replacing Davis’ outsized impact.
Tell us your outlook for Pete Werner entering year six?
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