A.J. Klein

During his first four years with the Saints, Klein only started in 38.3 percent of the games he appeared in, but he's steadily grown into an IDP consideration because of his ability to make statistical contributions in a myriad of different ways. He has developed into a full-time contributor for New Orleans over the past two years, making 28 starts out of a possible 32, while collecting a combined 124 tackles, 13 tackles for loss, seven QB hits, four sacks and two fumble recoveries during that span.

In his first season in New Orleans, Klein appeared in 12 games -- all starts -- before suffering a season-ending groin injury in Week 14. As the Saints’ starting middle linebacker, Klein recorded 54 tackles (37 solo), two sacks, four pass breakups and a forced fumble. The Saints, however, signed middle linebacker standout Demario Davis this offseason. While Klein should continue to be a solid albeit unspectacular option in IDP leagues, the offseason acquisition of Davis could shift Klein to outside linebacker, which may suppress his fantasy stock.

In his third season, Klein started six games last year, partially as a result to injuries to Luke Kuechly, but finished with 55 stops, one sack and one interception. In doing so, he proved to be a capable fill-in player, which suits him for the Panthers' No. 4 linebacker role this season while Kuechly, Thomas Davis and Shaq Thompson form Carolina's starting trio.

Klein registered 39 tackles and two forced fumbles last season and is expected to compete with rookie first-rounder Shaq Thompson for the Panthers' third starting linebacker position next to Luke Kuechly and Thomas Davis this season.

Klein excelled on special teams last season and also started two games at weakside linebacker, finishing his rookie year with 21 tackles and two sacks. He'll compete with Chase Blackburn for the Panthers' starting weakside position, while also backing up Luke Kuechly at middle linebacker this season.

The rookie from Iowa State will serve as a reserve linebacker this season.