The New Orleans Saints’ defense has been outstanding this season. In fact, the huge upgrade from last year is a big reason why the team is in first place in the NFC South division with an 8-2 record. Unfortunately, cornerback Jabari Greer, who is one of the veteran leaders on the defense, is lost for the season after he tore his ACL against the San Francisco 49ers. What does Greer’s injury mean for New Orleans going forward?

For starters, 31-year-old has been huge in pass defense. Greer leads the team with 12 passes defended and he is ranked second with one interception. With that being said, the biggest lost will be his veteran presence in the secondary, which has been a huge reason why Saints defensive coordinator Rob Ryan has been able to do some of the things he has this season.

The good news is New Orleans has second-year player Corey White on their roster. The defensive back has shown plenty of potential this season, which gives the Saints all the confidence they need to trek forward without Greer.

“Jabari has been great this year,” defensive end Cameron Jordan said, according to USA Today Sports. “He’s played up to what he did in previous years and was playing at a very high level. So for him to go down like that, you have to rely on the coaching staff and staff that has picked players for our team just to know that this is ‘next man up.’

“We can’t replace Jabari’s leadership that he brings, the spiritual leadership that he brings as well as the on-field leadership. But talent-wise, I think Corey White is very promising and he’s going to be a great guy.”

White has recorded 14 total tackles, five defended passes, one interception and two forced fumbles. Needless to say, the Saints appear to be in good hands.