NFC South preview: Marching orders for Saints

We've got next.

QB Aaron Brooks might be the key to the season in New Orleans.(AP)

That's the theme this season in New Orleans, where the Saints think they are a legitimate threat to become the third consecutive team from the NFC South to represent the division in the Super Bowl, following Tampa Bay and Carolina.

"Why shouldn't we feel that way?" said quarterback Aaron Brooks. "We have the talent."

They have two outstanding lines, big-play ability in their receivers and a premier running back in Deuce McAllister. And, they're much faster on defense than in years past.

So how come there are doubters?

For one, they've been hurt by inconsistency, a trait of a young team. But this one is growing ripe.

"The maturity thing isn't a factor anymore," Brooks said.

That brings it all right to him. Ask any scout or personnel director in the league about the Saints, and the first thing they say is they're talented, but they want to see the quarterback progress.

"People always find something to say," Brooks said. "They always question the quarterback, always question the coach, always question what we do. That's what they want to dwell on. People thrive on negativity. I block it out and go out and play."

If he plays well, the Saints just might have next.

New Orleans Saints

Significant additions: Brian Young, DT; Jason Craft, CB; Will Smith, DE; Aaron Stecker, RB.