The New Orleans Saints head their fourth offseason practice this week, second in front of the media, and a number of players found their way into the spotlight.
As is typical in these non-contact practices, the skill position players get the best chances to shine, and that was certainly the case on Wednesday as a pair of wide receivers drew vocal reactions to the plays they were making. However, one cornerback didn’t take long to keep the defense from being outshined.
Wide Receiver Kevin Austin Jr.
Former UFL star Kevin Austin Jr. signed with the team back in 2024 and has stuck around ever since. He’s held spots on both the practice squad and active roster, including a strong finish to the season last year wherein he totaled 13 receptions for 140 receiving yards and his first career receiving touchdown over the last four weeks of the season.
During the team’s Organized Team Activities (OTAs) practice, Austin crossed the field during a simulated scramble drill, gaining a step on slot defender Jonas Sanker for a big catch downfield. The throw by quarterback Tyler Shough was another one of his eye-popping arm angle tosses, and Austin was able to reel it in before getting to the sideline. He had the best catch of the day during the first open OTA practice as well.
Wide Receiver Ja’Lynn Polk
The former New England Patriots second-round draft pick arrived in New Orleans last offseason following a trade that brought him over while still on Injured Reserve. Polk called the opportunity to head to the Big Easy “an honor” after practice and shared his desires to make sure he proves the Saints right for their investment.
On Wednesday, he pulled in a big catch on a crosser of his own that impressed onlookers, stretching out to reel the pass in.
Polk has found a few ways to make sure that his play is leaping off the field during this offseason and the extra time he spent working with Shough this spring has already started to pay off.
Cornerback Martin Emerson Jr.
A recent free agency addition, Martin Emerson Jr. is already making impact plays. The former Cleveland Browns corner pulled in an interception off of a tip drill situation during the team’s 7-on-7 drills. The pass from quarterback Spencer Rattler was well-placed to rookie wideout Bryce Lance, but veteran corner Isaac Yiadom crashed down in time to initiate enough contact (as much as one can in these practices) to knock the ball up into the air. Emerson, in a display of quick reflexes and good awareness, rushed under the ball before it could fall to the ground and came away with a big takeaway.
