Underdogs: Easton Kilty has the talent to snag a roster spot

By Ross Jackson

Every offseason, there are underdog players that find their way onto NFL rosters. Looking over the current group of New Orleans Saints players, there are some that meet the underdog criteria, looking to be the next surprise competitors to land a role in the Big Easy. 

Sometimes those roles are as consistent contributors. Sometimes they are depth or practice squad players, but in every case, these are major opportunities for those that earn them. 

This undrafted free agent could quickly crack the 53-man roster or practice squad because of his versatility, experience, and production. 

Offensive Lineman Easton Kilty

The former Kansas State lineman came out of one of the best collegiate offensive line programs in college football, North Dakota State University (NDSU), before transferring for his final year. Now, the 6-foot-6, 307 pounder lands with the Saints, who are in dire need of improved depth along the trenches on offense. 

Kilty landed with the Saints as an undrafted free agent this year and brings with him more than 3,000 offensive snaps over the course of his five years at NDSU and Kansas State. 

Building Depth on the Line

The Saints’ starting five is practically set with rookie Kelvin Banks Jr. at left tackle, fourth-year tackle Trevor Penning moving to left guard, Erik McCoy and Cesar Ruiz staying at center, and right guard respectively and Taliese Fuaga moving back to his collegiate position at right tackle. 

Behind them is where opportunity is abundant. Free agent acquisition Dillon Radunz is likely to claim a role, especially with his position to play across the offensive line, recently re-signed Landon Young has similar versatility that could keep him around. 

But Kilty, who allowed just five sacks over his five collegiate seasons, should be seriously considered to grab another spot backing up the starters, or shoring up the group as a practice squad member. 

Kilty’s Resume

It’s been hard to get a beat on the offensive line so far as the Saints haven’t done any 11-on-11, full team drills in front of the media. However, his resume coming into the league is most impressive. 

With just five sacks, three quarterback hits, and 32 total pressures allowed over his college years, Kilty has been a talented and productive player each year. He has played left tackle, right tackle and right guard, bringing versatility to the position as well. 

Why Kilty Has A Shot

It was fairly surprising that Kilty went undrafted. He’s working with some of the best offensive line developers in college football and has produced and protected passers at multiple levels of the game with success. On top of it all, he brings two very valuable assets because of his versatility and experience. 

Kilty may not be a household name as an undrafted free agent, but it wouldn’t be surprising to see him stick around in and through 2025 at some capacity.