Saints' John Jenkins: Should see increased playing time

With rookie DT Sheldon Rankins reportedly fracturing his fibula in Monday's practice, Jenkins will likely see an increase in playing time to start the season.

Jenkins, a pending free agent, appeared slated for a reserve role this season, with the Saints drafting Rankins with the 12th overall pick and spending big to acquire veteran Nick Fairley in free agency. With Rankins expected to miss 6-8 weeks, Jenkins will now likely start alongside Fairley in the Saints' 4-3 base defense. In his first three years in the league, Jenkins has posted decent tackle totals for his position, but with only 1.5 career sacks, he probably should not be expected to be a difference-maker in most IDP leagues.