Jaylan Ford has clutch INT, 8 tackles in first half vs. Jaguars

Jaylan Ford was all over the field early in the New Orleans Saints' preseason opener. His biggest play came with the Jacksonville Jaguars threatening to score late in the first quarter, when the linebacker dropped into coverage, read the quarterback's eyes, and moved underneath a pass thrown over the middle. Ford secured the interception near the goal line and returned it away from the end zone, ending a Jaguars' opportunity that threatened to end in points.

The turnover was far from Ford's only contribution. He also piled up eight tackles in the first half, consistently finding his way to the ball against both the run and the passing game. Ford's activity helped the Saints keep the Jaguars scoreless through their first two possessions after New Orleans grabbed an early lead.

JAYLAN FORD INT!#Saints | 📺: FOX-8 pic.twitter.com/PwzJhQKFki

Ford's early performance was encouraging — and it was a continuation of an impressive start to training camp. He showed plenty of range and instincts in his first showing during this preseason. It's the type of performance that can help a young defender earn more opportunities. The Saints still have several linebacker roles to sort out before the regular season, and if Ford continues producing like this, he will make a strong case for a larger place in the rotation.

This article originally appeared on Saints Wire: Jaylan Ford has clutch INT, 8 tackles in first half vs. Jaguars