By Ross Jackson
The final preseason game for the New Orleans Saints is on the way, and it could bring some shuffling of the roster with it. The 53-man roster may already be well-formulated (read our projections here), but these competitions will continue to have some impact. Here is a quick update on where each position battle stands, who the contenders are and who the front-runner looks to be.
Backup Quarterback
The battle that everyone has been heavily invested in despite the fact that it should ideally have no on-field impact on the season whatsoever. But hey, fun is fun, and you never know what an NFL season will bring.
Contenders: Jake Haener and Spencer Rattler
Front-runner: Jake Haener
Wide Receiver No. 5 and/or 6
It will be interesting to see how many wideouts the team keeps on the roster. Perhaps the new kickoff rules change the way that decision has been made in the past. Either way, behind Chris Olave, Rashid Shaheed, Cedrick Wilson Jr., and A.T. Perry, the team is looking for someone to snag a spot on their depth chart. Strong blocking, contributing to the passing game and special teams will all play large roles in deciding this one.
Contenders: Bub Means, Kevin Austin Jr., Equanimeous St. Brown, Stanley Morgan Jr., Samson Nacua, Mason Tipton (injured)
Front-runners: Bub Means, Stanley Morgan Jr.
Starting Right Tackle
Another battle that everyone has been following closely has picked up steam recently. Veteran lineman Oli Udoh has begun to mix in at the spot while 2022 first-round pick Trevor Penning continues to conquer his early struggles. This game could play a big role in gauging Penning’s readiness. Last year the Saints opened the season against the Titans and Penning had a hard time with edge rushers Harold Landry and Arden Key. While Key deals with injury, Landry is set to participate in this game, giving an immediate opportunity to see Penning’s progression since last year.
Contenders: Trevor Penning and Oli Udoh
Front-runner: Trevor Penning
Fifth cornerback
Much like wide receiver, this position has its solidified top four. A spot may be open at the bottom of the depth chart. Undrafted rookie Rico Payton has made a major impression through the first two preseason games. He is healthy again and will have a chance to deliver a third outstanding performance. But he will have competition in the process.
Contenders: Rico Payton, Shemar Jean-Charles, Rejzohn Wright
Front-runner: Shemar Jean-Charles
Specialists
The kicker and punter battles have been a lot of fun to watch. Whether one or both incumbents hold on to their roster spots remains big question. The Saints love consistency, so steering away from both of the previous year’s starters for a second year in a row would be a bit surprising. That said, big legs are hard to miss and both rookie contenders pack some power in their kicking abilities.
Kicker
Contenders: Blake Grupe and Charlie Smyth
Front-runner: Blake Grupe
Punter
Contenders: Lou Hedley and Matthew Haybell
Front-runner: Lou Hedley
