By Ross Jackson
As OTAs enter their final week, a lot of excitement around the new faces of the New Orleans Saints is bubbling up. However, with the excitement of young rookies joining a team comes the potential for them to push established veterans out of roles or roster spots.
Some incumbent Saints are going to have a lot of new competition incoming. At the same time, they have an effectively all-new coaching staff to convince in the meanwhile. There will be no loyalties and nothing given this offseason.
This series will focus on returning Saints that are in for a fight for their roles. Because of the nature of this offseason and the extensive amount of change throughout, the list is long, so we’ll take it one at a time.
DT Khalen Saunders
With several changes expected on defense, even safe roster spots run a chance of a changing or reduced role as a contributor. Saunders faces that test this year having to learn how he will fit with his new coaching staff and scheme.
The good news for him is that his unique skill set should keep him firmly placed as a reliable and consistent presence despite the team’s philosophical shifts.
Why Saunders Has a Solid Chance
At 6-foot and 324 pounds, Saunders is a prototypical fit for the upcoming 3-4 defensive roles. As a nose tackle, Saunders would give the Saints a big-bodied run stuffed, if his athleticism helps to set him apart as a player that could contribute in the pass rush as well.
His ability to move fluidly, climb the line of scrimmage and operate with speed and agility make him an intriguing piece for defensive coordinator Brandon Staley.
LOOK AT BINK RUN
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He also has experience in championship systems, something that is both hard to replace. His leadership and commanding personality are of major value to the team’s locker room and culture.
What Stands in Saunders’ Way
Newness and a crowded room would be the most logical hurdles that Saunders may have to clear. Though as a veteran in the room and third-year player in New Orleans, that shouldn’t be much of an issue.
He is one of seven defensive tackles in the roster though, so if things get competitive, surprises could happen. The team recently worked out another interior defender, Jonathan Bullard, who could add another number to the depth chart. However, his role would likely be different from Saunders’.
For the most part, this will all come down to how the former Kansas City Chief adjusts to and learns Staley’s new system.
Prediction
Saunders should have little to no issues making the roster and having a strong role in the defense. His unique blend of athleticism, size and motor are part of what makes him a perfect fit for Staley’s scheme.
More Vet Status
