As training camp gets underway, the New Orleans Saints face the critical task of establishing the right 53 personnel to build an efficient and competitive NFL roster. The significance of this process cannot be overstated. With the season quickly ramping up, every position battle, practice performance, and preseason game carries immense weight in shaping the team’s fortunes for the year ahead. Crafting a balanced and effective roster is essential for immediate success and navigating the grueling NFL season, ensuring depth and readiness to face any challenges.
This article presents the first edition of our Saints 53-man roster projection series. Throughout the preseason, we’ll provide updates and insights as we monitor the developments and shifts within the roster. We aim to comprehensively examine who we believe will cut and why, considering player performances, positional needs, and coaching decisions. Stay tuned as we delve into the intricacies of the Saints’ roster, analyzing key battles and potential surprises as the team prepares for the upcoming season.
QUARTERBACK: Derek Carr, Jake Haener, Spencer Rattler (Rookie)
The quarterback position is crucial for any NFL team, and the Saints have made strategic decisions to ensure they are well-equipped for the season.
Derek Carr enters his second season with the Saints with high expectations. Known for his leadership and strong arm, Carr aims to build on his experience and improve the team’s offensive efficiency. His presence provides stability and veteran savvy, crucial for navigating the ups and downs of an NFL season.
Jake Haener, a promising young talent, has grown significantly since joining the Saints. Haener’s ability to adapt and learn quickly has impressed the coaching staff, making him a reliable backup option. His development will be closely monitored throughout training camp as he continues to push Carr and provide depth at the quarterback position.
Spencer Rattler, the rookie, adds an intriguing element to the quarterback room. Rattler, known for his dynamic playmaking ability and strong collegiate performance, brings fresh energy and potential to the team. While he may need time to adjust to the professional level, his upside makes him a valuable asset for the future. The coaching staff will look to hone his skills and integrate him into the system, preparing him for any opportunities during the season.
In summary, the Saints’ quarterback situation looks robust with a mix of veteran leadership, promising young talent, and dynamic potential. This blend of experience and youth provides a strong foundation for the team’s offensive strategy, ensuring they are well-prepared for the challenges ahead.
WIDE RECEIVER: Chris Olave, Rashid Shaheed, A.T. Perry, Cedrick Wilson Jr., Equanimeous St. Brown, Bub Means (Rookie)
The wide receiver corps for the Saints is a mix of established playmakers, rising stars, and promising newcomers, offering a dynamic blend of talent and potential.
Chris Olave stands out as the primary target in the receiving corps. His exceptional route-running ability, speed, and hands make him a reliable and explosive weapon for the Saints offense. Olave’s continued development is crucial for the team’s success and is expected to be a key contributor.
Rashid Shaheed adds another layer of speed and versatility. Known for his ability to stretch the field, Shaheed provides a deep-threat option to open up the offense and keep defenses honest. His chemistry with Derek Carr will be a focal point during training camp.
A.T. Perry is a young receiver with a lot of potential. His size and physicality make him an ideal target in the red zone and on contested catches. Perry’s ability to make tough catches and contribute in key situations will be closely watched throughout the preseason.
Cedrick Wilson Jr. brings experience and reliability to the receiving group. With his solid route-running and dependable hands, Wilson is a valuable addition who can be counted on in critical moments. His veteran presence will help guide the younger receivers.
Equanimeous St. Brown offers a combination of size and speed. His versatility and ability to play multiple receiver positions add depth to the unit. St. Brown’s performance in training camp will determine his role and impact on the offense.
Bub Means, the rookie, is an exciting prospect. His raw talent and athleticism give him a high ceiling, but he must prove himself against NFL competition. The coaching staff will focus on developing his skills and integrating him into the system, with the potential for him to contribute as the season progresses.
The wide receiver group is poised to be a strength for the Saints, with a mix of proven talent and emerging stars ready to make an impact. This diverse and dynamic unit will be essential in executing the offensive game plan and providing Derek Carr with multiple reliable targets.
RUNNING BACK: Alvin Kamara, Jamaal Williams, Kendre Miller, Taysom Hill, Adam Prentice
The Saints’ running back group is a balanced mix of versatile playmakers, powerful runners, and reliable depth, each bringing a unique skill set to the offense.
Alvin Kamara remains the centerpiece of the Saints’ backfield. Known for his exceptional versatility, Kamara is a dual-threat running back who can impact the game as both a rusher and a receiver. His ability to create mismatches and make explosive plays is crucial for the Saints’ offensive success.
Jamaal Williams adds a powerful and dependable presence to the backfield. Williams is known for his hard-nosed running style and effectiveness in short-yardage and goal-line situations. His reliability and experience make him a valuable complement to Kamara’s dynamic playmaking.
Kendre Miller is an exciting young talent with a promising future. Miller brings fresh energy and potential to the running back room as a rookie. His speed and agility make him a dangerous weapon in open space, and he will look to make an immediate impact in his first season.
Taysom Hill offers a unique and versatile option for the Saints. Although primarily a quarterback, Hill’s athleticism and ability to contribute as a runner, receiver, and special team player make him an asset. His presence adds a dynamic and unpredictable element to the offense.
Adam Prentice serves as the fullback, providing essential blocking and support in both the running and passing game. Prentice’s role may not always be highlighted, but his contributions are vital for creating running lanes and protecting the quarterback.
This group of running backs forms a well-rounded and dynamic unit capable of handling various roles and responsibilities. Their versatility and depth will be key to the Saints’ offensive strategy, ensuring they are prepared to tackle the challenges of the upcoming season.
TIGHT END: Juwan Johnson (out with foot injury), Foster Moreau, Dallin Holker (Rookie)
The tight end position for the Saints is currently one of the thinnest heading into training camp, especially after the concerning report on Juwan Johnson’s foot injury. According to Nick Underhill of New Orleans Football (NOF), Johnson is expected to miss a significant amount of time, leaving a noticeable void in the tight end depth chart.
Juwan Johnson was expected to be a key contributor, known for his pass-catching abilities and red zone threat. His absence will be keenly felt, as he brought a unique blend of size, speed, and hands to the tight end position.
Foster Moreau now steps into a more prominent role. Moreau, a solid and dependable option, will need to shoulder the load and provide stability at the position. His experience and reliability make him the most likely candidate to start, but he must elevate his game to fill the gap left by Johnson’s injury.
Dallin Holker, the rookie, offers potential but comes with uncertainties. Holker is a promising pass catcher with good hands and route-running skills, but his blocking ability leaves much to be desired. His development in the blocking aspect will be crucial if he is to become a more complete tight end.
In the wake of Johnson’s injury, the Saints signed veteran Jesper Horsted, but he has primarily played special teams throughout his career. While he adds depth, his lack of significant offensive contributions in the past does not entirely address the team’s current needs at the position.
Although Taysom Hill can be inserted into the tight end depth chart, if necessary, he does not fit the prototypical mold of what a Klint Kubiak tight end should look like, despite his efficient pass-catching ability. Hill’s versatility is valuable, but relying on him as a full-time tight end may not be the ideal solution.
There are not many intriguing options on the open market to address the Saints’ void at tight end. The team must explore all available avenues, whether through trades or further free-agent signings, to solidify this critical position.
The tight end group will be under intense scrutiny as the Saints head into training camp, and how they manage this thin position could significantly impact their offensive efficiency in the upcoming season.
OFFENSIVE LINE: Taliese Fuaga (Rookie), Nick Saldiveri, Erik McCoy, Cesar Ruiz, Trevor Penning, Landon Young, Lucas Patrick, Oli Udoh, Shane Lemieux
The Saints’ offensive line mixes experienced veterans and promising newcomers, aiming to form a cohesive and effective unit to protect the quarterback and establish the run game.
Taliese Fuaga, the rookie, brings raw talent and potential to the line. While he may need time to adjust to the professional level, his development during training camp will be crucial. Fuaga’s growth could provide valuable depth and possibly a starting role in the future.
Nick Saldiveri is another young player with significant upside. His versatility allows him to play multiple positions on the line, making him a valuable asset for the coaching staff. Saldiveri’s adaptability will be a key factor in his quest for playing time.
Erik McCoy anchors the line at the center position. McCoy’s leadership and experience are vital for maintaining stability and communication across the offensive line. His ability to read defenses and quickly adjust is a cornerstone of the Saints’ offensive strategy.
Cesar Ruiz continues to be a reliable presence at guard. He is known for his strength and technique; Ruiz is crucial in pass protection and run blocking. His consistency will be important in providing a solid interior line.
Trevor Penning is a key player at tackle, tasked with protecting the quarterback’s blind side. Penning’s size, strength, and agility make him a formidable force on the line. His performance in training camp will be closely watched to ensure he can handle elite pass rushers.
Landon Young offers depth at tackle. Young’s experience and versatility allow him to step in, providing valuable support and competition. His role as a backup will be crucial in maintaining the line’s integrity throughout the season.
Lucas Patrick is a seasoned veteran who brings a wealth of experience. His ability to play both guard and center adds flexibility to the unit. Patrick’s presence will be important for mentoring younger players and stepping in during injuries.
Oli Udoh provides additional depth and competition at the guard position. Udoh’s physicality and blocking skills make him a valuable rotational player, capable of contributing to various situations.
Shane Lemieux rounds out the line with his toughness and grit. Known for his tenacity, Lemieux’s role will provide depth and challenge for starting positions. His ability to step in and perform when called upon will be critical for the line’s success.
The Saints’ offensive line combines veteran leadership with promising young talent. The development and cohesion of this unit during training camp will be essential for the team’s offensive efficiency and success in the upcoming season.
DEFENSIVE END: Carl Granderson, Cameron Jordan, Chase Young, Isaiah Foskey, Payton Turner
Identifying who would make the final cut for the Saints’ defensive line was straightforward, given the talent and potential within this unit. However, there are a few injury concerns that could impact the effectiveness and consistency of this group.
Carl Granderson has steadily developed into a reliable and productive defensive end. His ability to pressure the quarterback and contribute to the run defense makes him a key component of the Saints’ defensive line. Granderson’s consistency and durability are assets that the team will heavily rely on this season.
Cameron Jordan remains the cornerstone of the Saints’ defensive line. As a veteran leader, Jordan’s experience, leadership, and relentless motor continue to set the standard for the unit. His presence not only elevates the play of those around him but also provides stability and a proven track record of success.
Chase Young brings a high ceiling as a pass rusher, but his career has been marred by injuries and inconsistency. Young has shown flashes of his immense potential, but he needs to prove that he can consistently stay healthy and perform at a high level. This season is critical for Young as he has one year to demonstrate that he’s worth the risk for a long-term deal in the future.
Isaiah Foskey is known for his athleticism and pass-rushing ability; Foskey has the tools to become a significant contributor. His development during training camp and the regular season will be crucial in determining his role and impact on the defense.
Payton Turner has shown glimpses of being a productive defensive lineman, but his growth has been stifled by health issues over the years. When healthy, Turner possesses the skill set to be a disruptive force on the edge. The Saints need him to stay on the field and reach his potential to bolster the defensive line.
The Saints’ defensive end group is a blend of proven veterans, promising young talent, and players with high potential but injury concerns. The health and consistency of this unit will be key to the overall success of the Saints’ defense in the upcoming season.
DEFENSIVE TACKLE: Bryan Bresee, Nathan Shepherd, Khalen Saunders, Kendal Vickers, Khristian Boyd (Rookie)
The defensive tackle position for the Saints is another group that appears to be thin heading into training camp. While there are some promising talents, depth and consistency remain concerns.
Bryan Bresee is going into his second season with the Saints after appearing as a rookie in 2023. Bresee showed flashes of his potential during his rookie year, demonstrating his ability to disrupt the interior line and apply pressure on the quarterback. His continued development is crucial for solidifying the defensive tackle position and providing a strong presence in the middle of the line.
Nathan Shepherd brings experience and reliability to the unit. Known for his toughness and work ethic, Shepherd can be counted on to contribute both as a run-stopper and pass rusher. His veteran presence is valuable for maintaining stability and guiding the younger players on the line.
Khalen Saunders is another key player in the defensive tackle rotation. Saunders’ physicality and ability to clog running lanes make him an important part of the Saints’ interior defense. His performance will be essential in ensuring the defensive line can effectively control the line of scrimmage.
Kendal Vickers is a player who saw a significant number of snaps during minicamp sessions. While he may not be a lock to make the final roster, Vickers’ experience and versatility could prove handy, especially if players like rookie Khristian Boyd do not see the field this season. Vickers’ ability to step in and perform when needed provides depth and flexibility to the position.
Khristian Boyd, the rookie and late-round draft pick, adds potential to the group but is still an unproven commodity at the professional level. Boyd’s development during training camp will be critical in determining his readiness to contribute. If he can quickly adapt to the NFL and show his worth, he could provide much-needed depth to the defensive tackle position.
In summary, the Saints’ defensive tackle group, like the tight end position, appears thin and will require careful management and development. The performance and health of key players like Bresee, Shepherd, and Saunders will be pivotal. At the same time, the contributions of Vickers and Boyd will be closely monitored to ensure the unit’s overall effectiveness throughout the season.
LINEBACKER: Demario Davis, Pete Werner, Willie Gay, Khaleke Hudson, Anfernee Orji, Jaylan Ford (Rookie), D’Marco Jackson
The Saints’ linebacker group is one of the deeper units on the team, presenting both opportunities and challenges as the coaching staff makes tough decisions on final roster spots. Each player brings a unique skill set, contributing to a versatile and dynamic linebacker corps.
Demario Davis is the unquestioned leader of the linebacker group. Known for his leadership, intelligence, and playmaking ability, Davis sets the standard for the defense. As a seasoned veteran, his experience and on-field awareness are invaluable. Davis may also be able to mentor the younger linebackers, potentially passing the torch to the next top Saints linebacker.
Pete Werner continues to be a reliable and productive presence. His speed, tackling ability, and coverage skills make him an integral part of the defense. Werner’s consistency and versatility allow him to excel in various defensive schemes and contribute significantly both in run defense and pass coverage.
Willie Gay, a free agent from Kansas City, brings an exciting mix of athleticism and potential. Having started his career with the Chiefs, Gay has experience and has shown flashes of brilliance. His arrival adds competition and depth to the linebacker group. Gay’s development and integration into the Saints’ defense will be crucial, as he has the potential to become a key player and possibly take over a leadership role in the future.
Khaleke Hudson is noted for his efficiency on special teams. His versatility and ability to contribute to multiple game phases make him valuable. Hudson’s special teams prowess likely secures his spot on the roster, as these contributions are critical for overall team success.
Anfernee Orji and Jaylan Ford, the rookie, bring youthful energy and potential. Orji’s athleticism and Ford’s college performance offer promising prospects for the future. Their development during training camp will be closely monitored to assess their readiness for NFL competition and their ability to provide depth and versatility.
D’Marco Jackson finds himself in a competitive battle for a roster spot. Jackson’s performance in training camp and preseason games will determine his place on the team. Given Hudson’s special teams contributions, it may come down to Jackson proving his value on defense and special teams to secure his spot.
The linebacker group is deep and talented, combining proven veterans and promising newcomers. The competition for roster spots will be fierce, and the coaching staff must make tough decisions to ensure the best players are on the field. The health, development, and versatility of this unit will play a significant role in the overall success of the Saints’ defense in the upcoming season.
CORNERBACK: Marshon Lattimore, Paulson Adebo, Alontae Taylor, Kool-Aid McKinstry (Rookie)
The Saints’ cornerback room is by far the deepest on the roster, featuring a blend of established stars and promising newcomers. The depth chart for this unit is straightforward, with each player bringing valuable skills to the table.
Marshon Lattimore is the cornerstone of the Saints’ secondary. As a Pro Bowl-caliber cornerback, Lattimore’s ability to shut down top receivers and make impactful plays is crucial for the defense. His experience, athleticism, and ball skills make him a leader in the cornerback group and a vital component of the Saints’ pass defense.
Paulson Adebo continues to develop into a reliable and effective cornerback. Known for his length and playmaking ability, Adebo has shown he can handle tough matchups and provide strong coverage. His growth and consistency will be key in maintaining the high standard set by the Saints’ secondary.
Alontae Taylor brings versatility and depth to the cornerback room. Taylor’s ability to play outside and in the slot adds flexibility to the defensive schemes. His speed and agility make him an asset in covering a variety of receivers, and his presence strengthens the overall depth of the unit.
Kool-Aid McKinstry, the rookie, is an exciting addition to the cornerback group. Coming out of college with a strong reputation, McKinstry’s potential and athleticism make him a promising prospect. While he may need some time to adjust to the NFL level, his development will be closely watched, and he has the potential to contribute significantly in his rookie season.
The Saints’ cornerback room is deep and talented, providing a solid foundation for the team’s pass defense. The depth chart is clear, with each player bringing unique strengths that enhance the overall effectiveness of the unit. This depth allows the Saints to match up effectively against a variety of offensive threats, ensuring that the secondary remains one of the strongest aspects of the team’s defense.
SAFETY: Tyrann Mathieu, Jordan Howden, Johnathan Abram, J.T. Gray, Ugo Amadi
The Saints’ safety group features a mix of experienced veterans and promising young talents, providing a solid backbone for the secondary.
Tyrann Mathieu, known as “The Honey Badger,” brings leadership, versatility, and playmaking ability to the Saints’ defense. Mathieu’s experience and instincts are invaluable as the starting strong safety, allowing him to make impactful plays both in coverage and against the run. His presence in the secondary sets a high standard for the rest of the unit.
In his second year, Jordan Howden is set to maintain the starting free safety position. Howden showed promise in his rookie season, displaying solid coverage skills and good field awareness. The team’s decision to keep him as the starter indicates their confidence in his development and potential to become a key player in the secondary. If the Saints choose not to sign free agent safety Justin Simmons, it will further highlight their belief in Howden’s capabilities.
Johnathan Abram returns to the Saints after an impressive season. His physicality and aggressive style of play add a needed dimension to the safety group. Abram’s ability to contribute both in coverage and run support provides valuable depth, ensuring that the Saints have reliable options behind their starters.
J.T. Gray is a standout on special teams, known for his consistency and high level of play. While not primarily used in defensive schemes, Gray’s contributions on special teams are crucial for the overall performance of the unit. His presence on the roster guarantees that the Saints maintain excellence in this often-overlooked game aspect.
Ugo Amadi brings additional depth and versatility to the safety group. Amadi’s experience and ability to play multiple positions in the secondary make him a valuable asset. He will provide depth and step in when needed, ensuring that the Saints’ defense remains resilient and adaptable.
The Saints’ safety group is a well-rounded unit with a strong blend of veteran leadership and young talent. The starting positions are solidified with Mathieu and Howden, while Abram, Gray, and Amadi provide crucial depth and special teams excellence. The potential addition of Justin Simmons could further bolster this group. Still, even without it, the Saints’ safety corps looks poised to be a reliable and impactful part of the defense.
Special Teams: Kicker: Blake Grupe, Punter: Lou Hedley, Long Snapper: Zach Wood
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