98 Sheldon Rankins DT

Rankins recorded 26 tackles (16 solo), two sacks, one pass defensed, one interception and one forced fumble across 16 games in 2017.

The 2016, 12th overall selection's performance in 2017 may look underwhelming on paper, but the defensive tackle had a major impact transforming the Saints' defense in 2017. Although he played seven more games than his rookie season, Rankins statistical totals almost mirror his rookie totals -- his sack total was also cut in half in 2017. However, Rankins split time on the inside and outside of the defensive line for portions of the season, filling in for Alex Okafor (Achilles), who ended up on injured reserve. Playing defensive tackle doesn't necessarily draw great statistical numbers, but Rankins' leadership and playmaking ability deems him one of the most valuable members of the Saints' defense.

Rankins notched his first sack and interception of the season in Sunday's dominant victory over the Bills.

Rankins was only on the field for 28 defensive snaps (58.0 percent), but he made his presence felt. The 23-year-old intercepted opposing quarterback Tyrod Taylor mid-way through the third quarter, which resulted in a 27-yard return. He will look to carry his momentum into the Saints' Week 11 matchup versus the Redskins.

Ranking (Achilles) saw 19 defensive snaps in Sunday's preseason win over the Chargers, Larry Holder of The New Orleans Times-Picayune reports.

Rankins ended last season with a strained achilles in Week 17 but he hasn't been held back by the injury whatsoever in 2017. He came off the bench Sunday while Tony McDaniel got the start at defensive tackle, but Rankins is still expected to be a starter come the regular season.