OTAs offer early glimpse at Saints’ position battles

By Ross Jackson

The New Orleans Saints are set to begin Organized Team Activities (OTAs) this week and thus several position battles will step into the spotlight over the coming weeks. While winners and losers won’t be decided during this period in the offseason, these practices do offer a chance to see the early considerations that are happening at each position.

Here are five of the top position battles that will be tracked throughout camp and what we could learn about them from OTA participation.

STAR/Slot Cornerback

Perhaps the biggest hole left in the starting lineup, the Saints’ defensive chesspiece position is wide open for the taking. Some combination of cornerback and safeties are expected to battle it out for this role. The leaders in the clubhouse are expected to be cornerback Quincy Riley and safety Jonas Sanker, but a true representation of the starting competition will finally become clear soon.

Backup Center

Behind offensive line cornerstone Erik McCoy, the Saints have a bare room at center following the departure of Luke Fortner in free agency. While starting right guard Cesar Ruiz could slide over if an injury takes place, having a dedicated backup center that won’t cause the team to disrupt two positions with a single injury will be worth considering. Second-year lineman Torricelli Simpkins III could be viewed as the next option.

Running Back

While the questions around star back Alvin Kamara continue to swirl, the battle for the remaining roster spots behind Travis Etienne Jr. is sure to be an eventful one come training camp and the preseason. The battle is likely to be between backs Devin Neal, Audric Estime and Kendre Miller to take two or three roster spots. However, versatile running back Ty Chandler can’t be overlooked with his special teams contributions.

Wide Receiver

With 13 wide receivers on the roster and possibly only five or six regular season active roster spots available, this is sure to be an entertaining battle. Behind Chris Olave, Devaughn Vele and three rookies, there may only be one spot left over which eight pass-catchers will be left to battle.

Edge Rusher

While Chase Young and Carl Granderson are expected to be the top edge rushers in the building, additions like Tyree Wilson and Anfernee Jennings create some intrigue as the rest of the rotation is left to be decided. Second-year pass rusher Fadil Diggs will be worth watching as well, as his potential and development could help him spring into the conversation.