New Orleans Saints cornerback Paulson Adebo named NFC Defensive Player of the Week
New Orleans Saints cornerback Paulson Adebo has been named the Week Nine NFC Defensive Player of the Week.
Adebo, 6 feet 1, 192 pounds, originally selected by New Orleans with the 76th overall selection in the 2021 NFL Draft out of Stanford, led a stellar defensive effort in a 24-17 victory vs the Chicago Bears on Sunday, recording seven tackles (five solo), a career-high two interceptions, a career-best three passes defensed and a forced fumble/fumble recovery.
“Paulson was coming out like a thief in the night. That man was picking everything,” defensive end Cameron Jordan said after the game.
With his three takeaway performance against Chicago, the Mansfield, Texas native is now tied for first in the NFL in takeaways with six. The six takeaways are the most by a Saint since cornerback Marshon Lattimore recorded six in 2017. Adebo’s second interception in Sunday’s contest also set a career-high in interceptions in a season (four), tied for second in the NFL, surpassing his prior mark of three picks as a rookie (2021). His three passes defensed pushed his season total to 11, which is not only a single season-high for his young career, but also ranks third in the NFL.
“I was happy for Paulson,” Saints Coach Dennis Allen said. “The two interceptions were played exactly right. You do exactly what you are being taught to do, execute the defensive scheme exactly how you are supposed to execute the defensive scheme, you get rewarded. He got rewarded with a couple interceptions. You attack the ball like we talk about attacking the ball and you get a punch out and get rewarded.”
Adebo’s efforts helped the New Orleans defense force five turnovers for the first time since the 2020 regular season finale against the Carolina Panthers. He is the first Saint to have three takeaways in a game since safety Jay Bellamy finished with two interceptions and one fumble recovery on Oct. 13, 2002 at Washington. Adebo was also the first player to record two interceptions, a forced fumble, and a fumble recovery in the NFL since Charles Woodson accomplished the feat on Nov. 26, 2009.
In seven games in 2023, Adebo has 27 tackles (22 solo) and leads New Orleans in interceptions (four), passes defensed (11), forced fumbles (two) and fumble recoveries (two).
In 37 career regular season games with 36 starts, he has posted 150 tackles (127 solo), seven interceptions, 26 passes defensed, two forced fumbles, two fumble recoveries and three special teams stops.
“I try to be locked in every week,” Adebo said. “The results were good this week. Obviously, I need to go look at the film. Sometimes, it feels better than it is. Sometimes it feels worse than it is. I just try to have the same approach every week and try to put my best foot forward.”
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ATLANTA, GA -In an inspiring display of unity and compassion, the Atlanta Falcons and New Orleans Saints are teaming up to make a meaningful impact on the lives of those affected by ALS. The two rival NFL franchises have announced a partnership to host 50/50 raffles during both of their head-to-head matchups this season, with the proceeds directly benefiting Tackle ALS and Team Gleason.
The Falcons and the Saints are no strangers to fierce competition on the football field, but they are proving that they can put their rivalry aside to rally behind causes that transcend the game itself. The 50/50 raffle initiative will provide fans with an opportunity to contribute to the noble missions of Tim Green and Steve Gleason, all while enjoying the intense competition on gameday.
Tim Green, an Atlanta Falcons legend, and accomplished author, has leveraged his platform to support various charitable endeavors, including initiatives that focus on empowering young people and encouraging literacy. By participating in the 50/50 raffles, fans can contribute to Tackle ALS and aid its efforts to finding a cure for ALS.
Steve Gleason, a New Orleans Saints legend, has become an enduring symbol of strength and resilience in the face of ALS. His foundation works tirelessly to improve the lives of individuals living with ALS and to raise awareness about the disease. Through this unique partnership, Saints and Falcons fans can stand together in support of this crucial cause.
“Sports have a unique ability to bring people together, and this partnership showcases the true spirit of collaboration and compassion,” said Dennis Lauscha, President of the New Orleans Saints.” Greg Beadles, President of the Atlanta Falcons, added, “We’re excited to put our rivalry aside and join forces with the Saints to raise awareness for ALS and create a lasting impact off the field that goes beyond the scoreboard.”
Football fans who attend the week 12 Falcons home game on November 26 against the Saints can participate by purchasing 50/50 raffle tickets inside Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Attendees of the week 18 Saints home game against the Falcons (on either January 6 or 7) can participate by purchasing 50/50 raffle tickets in-stadium or in the state of Louisiana by visiting https://www.neworleanssaints.com/community/5050 on the day of the game.
Fans are encouraged to participate and make their mark on this remarkable partnership. Whether wearing black and gold or red and black, supporters of both teams can unite under a common goal: to make a difference in the lives of individuals facing challenges and adversity.
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