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Saints: DE Carl Granderson Is 'Coming In Hot'

Originally posted on FanNation Saints News Network
By Kyle T. Mosley | Last updated 9/20/23

The scorching summer days spent with coach Aaron Day in Sacramento, California, have been integral to the success of Carl Granderson. He has been ready to elevate his game and stand as the bookend to All-Pro Cam Jordan for years. Granderson, 26, has seen increased playing time and visibility since signing with New Orleans as an undrafted free agent in 2019.

"This offseason, I was trying to stay focused, get bigger and stronger," Granderson told the media at the Saints training camp. "So I'm just trying to come in, and do my job, and do my part." The Wyoming product's game start in Week 1 isn't a fluke. His growth and production are closely linked to his pre-cam training, which led to a solid training camp.

View the 6 images of this gallery on the original article

He's definitely coming into the season hot!

Carl Granderson: 2023-24 Thru 2 Weeks

Sacks	Tackles	QH Pressures	QB Hits	TFL
2.5	5	11	6	2

Before camp started in July, his trainer, Coach Day, told Saints News Network that Carl was "focused on having a great get-off and improving his rush angle to the QB." He continued, "We worked hard on that along with his counters, which was an area of improvement for him, in my opinion. He's been watching a lot of game film, too, this offseason."

After two weeks of game action, the New Orleans Saints defensive unit has been stellar. Pro Football Focus gives NFL-high ranks to LB Demario Davis (No. 2 -LBs), CB Marshon Lattimore (No. 1 - CBs), and Carl Granderson (No. 7 - Pass Rusher). The edge rush tandem of Cam Jordan (12) and Carl Granderson (11) have accounted for 26 quarterback pressures (NFL high) and three sacks - Granderson has stacked 2.5 body bags.

Carl Granderson is going to get PAID this offseason. pic.twitter.com/4lshFX4piA
— Chris Rosvoglou (@RosvoglouReport) September 19, 2023

"He wanted to improve on his pass-rush approach, set recognition, and setting up rushes. Carl is playing with a lot of confidence. All that he needed were the snaps. Now, he's showing everyone why he deserves to be a starter!" Coach Day noted.

Granderson is on a 21.25 sack pace to start the season. Can he keep up his torrid pace and continue his assault on NFL quarterbacks this season? It is his contract season.

We shall see.

This article first appeared on FanNation Saints News Network and was syndicated with permission.

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