Credit: Charles LeClaire-Imagn Images
By Ross Jackson
Every year, there are a couple of undrafted free agents (UDFAs) that end up impressing during summer training camps. For the New Orleans Saints, it’s expected. The scouting department has consistently uncovered gems in rookies signed after the draft.
One of this year’s candidates to be that diamond is the rough is Central Michigan edge rusher Michael Heldman.
The 6-foot-3, 268-pound pass rusher racked up some impressive numbers during his final season with the Chippawas, securing 10.5 sacks and 16.5 tackles for a loss.
While the Saints have generated quite a bit of competition at the edge rusher position, Heldman isn’t likely to be left out. He’s got good speed, movement ability and has a nose for the quarterback with a disruptive play style that never lacks for motor of effort.
Those are the types of traits that help a player stand out in a camp setting. Giving that extra effort for one more rep than the other edge rusher or going full-go for one more rep than the opposing blocker can be the highlight needed to catch the eyes of the coaches and earn more opportunities on the field.
Do that enough, and flashes can turn into consistent playmaking. Heldman has the motor, he has the build and he has the collegiate production. All he has to do, like fellow edge rusher Carl Granderson once did arriving in New Orleans as a UDFA out of Wisconsin, is prove that he can make the competitive leap from small school to the big league.
If he can do that, Heldman could quickly become an option for more preseason reps, which could lead to a key role on the practice squad or maybe even the 53-man roster as a rotational, depth or reserve piece.
He can help himself even further by showing some value on the special teams side of the game as well.
The Romero, Michigan native has a real chance to surprise during Saints’ training camp.
