A life without LB Demario Davis on the New Orleans Saints next season was something that no fan thought was possible, but in reality, it seems like the captain could be on his way out. There is still a chance Davis comes back, and the LB room would be in a better spot than if he left.

Still, the Saints should now plan for a future without Davis.

Looking at what the Saints LB core would be without Davis, the players left are Pete Werner, who really struggled last season; Danny Stutsman, who has potential but is still an unknown asset; Isaiah Stallbird, who is a good depth piece; and Jaylan Ford, who has been injured and has not played nearly enough. This room is nowhere near good enough to go into next season if Davis leaves.

In free agency, the LB group is very good. The first name that stands out is Quincy Williams from the New York Jets. Just looking at some of his similarities with Davis: both played for the Jets, wear 56, and hit free agency at 29. The big difference is height: Williams is 5-foot-11, and Davis is 6-foot-3.

Also, they play similar games, but Davis is the better tackler, and Williams is better in coverage. Last season was not great for Williams, and it seems he and the new coaching staff did not see eye to eye, but he was an All-Pro just two seasons ago.

Another free-agent option that makes sense is Quay Walker from the Green Bay Packers. Back in September, the Saints declined a trade offer for Walker, so the interest is clearly there already, and with him only 25, adding him to the roster is a great long-term option. 

If the team decides not to pursue a free-agent option, or even just a short-term one, the NFL Draft is the next step for the Saints to address the LB position. In the first round, the Saints have two potential options at 8, and both are from Ohio State. Arvelle Reese and Sonny Styles both bring something different to the offense, but would massively improve the LB group. Reese will add the edge rush threat, while Styles is more of a prototypical LB. Both players are extremely athletic and make impact plays throughout games.

A bit later in the draft, if the Saints want to find someone on day 2 or 3, Texas Tech Jacob Rodriguez is the guy. He can easily become a team's leader, is an excellent tackler, and forces fumbles with ease.