Rookie RB Devin Neal could seize key role in Saints’ offense

By Ross Jackson

Saturday’s game against the Denver Broncos is laden with storylines for the New Orleans Saints. It could be the deciding factor in the team’s ongoing quarterback competition, several starters are expected to make their first on-field preseason appearances and even though the game counts for nothing record-wise, it means everything to players trying to land a job in the NFL.

One of those players, rookie running back Devin Neal, has a clear path to making the roster because he was drafted by the team and its new coaching staff. However, being able to showcase his talents and prove them right will be a unique opportunity.

It’s not yet certain that Neal will get a chance to take the field as he recovers from his hamstring injury, but if he does, the opportunity before him is a significant one.

Not only would he have the chance to put his skills on display, but he could potentially earn a growing role in head coach Kellen Moore’s offense.

The Saints are expected to be a run-first team early in the season. It makes sense. The team will be starting one of two young quarterbacks, and establishing an early run game could do a lot to take some pressure off of the selected passer.

Along with starting running back Alvin Kamara, Neal is locked up in a battle for the second running back spot with incumbent option and front-runner Kendre Miller, veteran back Clyde Edwards-Helaire and dynamic runner Velus Jones Jr. Veteran back Cam Akers and undrafted rookie Marcus Yarns are likely to get those opportunities as well. 

Standing out among this pack won’t be easy. He’ll have to find a way whether by pilling off a big run (which hasn’t been seen in the preseason yet by New Orleans), aiding in pass blocking support or contributing through the air in the short-passing game.

Neal looked to be very involved during the team’s Superdome practice on Wednesday and didn’t look to have any restrictions during the limited media viewing window of practice on Thursday. Should he continue trending up and finding his way to the field, it could be a crucial opportunity to cap off an important week.