Why Re-Signing Malcolm Roach Is An Underrated Priority For The New Orleans Saints

An undrafted defensive tackle out of Texas in 2020, Roach was a moderate contributor for his first two seasons before playing a career-best 315 snaps in 2022. He was allowed to test the free-agent market before ultimately returning to the Saints last offseason. 

As the only returning player from a disappointing position, not much was expected from Roach entering 2023. He was part of a group that was gashed by inside running games in 2022. The Saints ranked a lowly 24th against the run that season. Defensive tackles contributed just 13 tackles for loss, while adding only 11.5 sacks as a position. 

Roach had a strong preseason. He carried that play into the regular season for a New Orleans defense that was among the league's best over the first half of the year. In the first seven weeks, the Saints allowed just one running back to gain over 60 yards while ranking among the league's best in pass defense. 

Malcolm Roach was a key part of the interior rotation. While Bresee and Shepherd were the unit's top players, Roach provided critical depth for the unit. Unfortunately, a knee injury suffered in Week 12 sidelined him for the final five games of the year.

If not for the injury, Roach would have easily surpassed his career-best total for snaps played. His 38 total tackles were the highest total of his four-year career, as were his three stops for loss. He didn't have a sack and was credited with only two QB hits, but was able to get some interior push to free up opportunities for his teammates. 

At 6'3" and 290-Lbs., Roach is stoutly built and plays with good leverage. His explosive first step at the snap puts blockers immediately on their heels. He's a powerful player that often commands double-team blocking. A much better run defender than pass rusher, Roach is the type of player that does the dirty work important to every roster.

Roach, 25, will be an unrestricted free agent next month. The Saints badly need an upgraded pass rush. Most believe that they'll target an edge rusher, but they may also add an interior pass rusher alongside Bresee. 

Malcolm Roach isn't a difference maker for an interior pass rush. However, he's a good run defender that solidifies an inside rotation. Not expected to command a big salary, the Saints may be wise to make a strong push to re-sign Roach early this offseason.