Pete Werner has swiftly become a cornerstone of the New Orleans Saints defense since being drafted in the second round (60th overall) of the 2021 NFL Draft. His consistent presence and impactful plays have solidified his role as a starting linebacker, contributing significantly to the team’s defensive prowess. Over three seasons, Werner has participated in 43 games, starting in 35, and amassing an impressive 231 tackles, demonstrating his reliability and effectiveness on the field.
Werner’s career trajectory points sharply upwards, highlighted by his standout performance in his third year. In his most recent campaign, Pete Werner achieved a career-high of 93 tackles, showcasing his growing command of the defense. He also tied for the team lead with two fumble recoveries, further illustrating his knack for game-changing plays. Starting in all 16 games he played in during that season, Werner’s durability and consistent high level of play are invaluable to the Saints defensive unit as they look to maintain a robust and formidable presence in the NFL.
Pete Werner’s NFL Journey: Key Milestones and Performances
Pete Werner’s journey in the NFL is marked by consistent growth and increasing impact each season. Let’s delve into the key highlights of his professional career:
Early Career and 2023 Season: A Breakout Year
In 2023, Pete Werner started in all 16 games, marking a season of exceptional performance and solidifying his position as a leading linebacker for the Saints. His 93 tackles, a personal best, were complemented by his first career interception, two fumble recoveries, and two passes defensed. Notably, in the season opener against Tennessee, Werner recorded eight tackles and a half-sack, setting a strong pace for the year. Later in September against Green Bay, he achieved a season-high 11 tackles, marking his seventh career game with double-digit tackles.
His impact wasn’t limited to tackling; Werner demonstrated his versatility and playmaking ability throughout the season. Against Tampa Bay in October, he added eight tackles, and in a shutout victory against New England, he recorded his first NFL interception. A crucial fumble recovery against Chicago in November sealed a win for the Saints, showcasing his clutch performance in critical moments. As the season progressed, Werner continued to be a dominant force, contributing consistently with tackles, including a season-high two stops for loss against the L.A. Rams and nine tackles against Tampa Bay at the end of December. His season concluded with four stops against Atlanta, capping off a statistically outstanding year for Pete Werner.
2022 Season: Consistency Amidst Challenges
The 2022 season saw Pete Werner participate in 12 games, starting in 11, and despite missing five games, he still ranked third on the team with 79 tackles. This season underscored his importance to the Saints defense. Werner began the season strongly, recording 12 tackles in the opening win against Atlanta, along with his first career forced fumble. He continued his strong performances with eight tackles against Tampa Bay and led the team with ten tackles against Carolina later in September.
October brought further highlights, including seven tackles and a forced fumble against Seattle, and another team-leading performance with seven tackles and two stops for loss against Arizona. Against Las Vegas, Werner again led the team with 11 tackles, playing a crucial role in preserving a shutout victory. Despite an ankle injury causing him to miss four games, Werner returned in December and contributed further, showcasing his resilience and dedication to the team.
2021 Rookie Season: Building a Foundation
Pete Werner’s rookie season in 2021 laid the groundwork for his subsequent success. Playing in 15 games with eight starts, he recorded 59 tackles and contributed on special teams. After making his NFL debut in the season opener against Green Bay, Werner quickly stepped into a starting role. He achieved his first double-digit tackle game against the N.Y. Giants in October, followed by a career-high 13 tackles against Washington the following week. Throughout his rookie year, Werner demonstrated his capability and potential, setting the stage for his continued growth and development within the Saints defense.
College Career and Personal Background
Before his NFL career, Pete Werner excelled at Ohio State University. As a senior, he earned first-team All-Big Ten honors and was a Butkus Award semifinalist. In 2020, he recorded 54 tackles in just eight games, showcasing his talent even in a shortened season. His college career also includes being a key player in the Buckeyes’ journey to the College Football Playoff championship game. Throughout his college years, Werner consistently contributed high tackle numbers and demonstrated leadership on the field.
Off the field, Pete Werner’s background highlights his strong athletic lineage and commitment to community. His father, Greg Werner, was a Hall of Fame athlete at DePauw University and played in the NFL. Pete Werner himself was a highly-rated prospect out of Indianapolis Cathedral High School. He has also shown a commitment to giving back, participating in community events with his Saints teammates and supporting charitable causes, showcasing his well-rounded character and dedication beyond football.
Conclusion: Pete Werner’s Bright Future with the Saints
Pete Werner has rapidly established himself as a vital component of the New Orleans Saints defense. His consistent performance, increasing statistical impact, and leadership qualities point towards a promising and enduring NFL career. As he continues to develop and refine his skills, Pete Werner is poised to remain a key player for the Saints and a notable linebacker in the league. His trajectory from a second-round draft pick to a defensive mainstay is a testament to his hard work, talent, and dedication, making him a player to watch in the seasons to come.
