By Ross Jackson
As is to be expected, the OTA storylines for the New Orleans Saints often center around the quarterback competition and the shuffling of the team’s offensive line. Both situations are going to have a monumental impact on not only the team’s 2025 season, but beyond.
But there was a player that kept catching the eyes of everyone in attendance. Wide receiver Rashid Shaheed.
After a meniscus surgery ended his explosive 2024 campaign early, it wasn’t a given that the speedster would even be present as OTA practice opened to the media last Thursday.
Rashid Shaheed target shares in first four games:
22%, 27%, 26%, 31%
Air yards:
47%, 46%, 51%, 52%
BALLER
— Dwain McFarland (@dwainmcfarland) September 29, 2024
The wideout looked every bit the speedy, field-stretching deep threat he has become over his three NFL seasons. Despite the injury and despite the surgery and subsequent recovery, Shaheed looks as fast and quick as ever. He’s undoubtedly the fastest player on the field still and has continued to develop as a route-runner, showing off his quick-twitch abilities.
He did so in what was the biggest play of the day, a 40+ yard deep ball down the right sideline from rookie quarterback Tyler Shough. Shaheed ran a slant-and-go or “sluggo” route where he faked the short, in-breaking route and after an effective pump fake by Shough, Shaheed turned upfield and blew by the defenders making haste to close in on him. He reeled in the pass in stride for what would have been a huge touchdown.
CARR TO SHAHEED 70 YARDS 🔥
📺: #NOvsDAL on FOX
📱: https://t.co/waVpO909ge pic.twitter.com/GV0MW5cduw— NFL (@NFL) September 15, 2024
Of course, during these practices there are no pads, and the contact is limited. But make no mistake about it, the team is moving at full speed. Especially young and veteran players trying to secure a job. Even with that, Shaheef, whose job is as safe as they come, just moves differently. Despite all of the adversity he’s faced regarding health, the wideout has not allowed himself to be slowed down one bit.
Shaheed caught 20 passes last season for a total of 349 receiving yards and three touchdown receptions after appearing in just six games. He also notched career highs 17.5 yards per catch and by having a 17.6-yard average depth in target.
