Despite missing the first half of the season recovering from an injury, Sheldon Rankins showed team officials that he was a potential game-wrecker as an interior defender. He finished the season with four sacks and a handful of pressures that served as a warning shot for opponents gearing up for the Saints' defense in 2017. Vonn Bell was a solid find at safety. The ex-Ohio State standout immediately added some energy, athleticism and playmaking to the unit as a versatile box defender. Michael Thomas quickly emerged as Drew Brees' No. 1 target in the passing game. The big-bodied pass catcher led the team in receptions (92) and ranked near the top of the league among rookies in every receiving category. GRADE: B+