3 Players to Watch at Saints Camp Day 13
With the New Orleans Saints prepping for their first preseason game this weekend against the Kansas City Chiefs, the spotlight turns to those who are fighting for roster spots. With starters expected to play around 15 snaps on Sunday per NOLA.com's Jeff Duncan, the game will still provide an expansive opportunity for depth and competition to take center stage. Here are three players that are either fighting for a role, or toggling for positioning that we will be watching at Saints camp day 13.
Dec 18, 2021; Atlanta, GA, USA; South Carolina State Bulldogs wide receiver Shaquan Davis (1) reacts after catching a touchdown pass against the Jackson State Tigers during the first half during the 2021 Celebration Bowl at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Dale Zanine-USA TODAY Sports
WR Shaq Davis
Head coach Dennis Allen praised Davis' length and athleticism in his Wednesday post-practice presser. But he also commented on his need to get more familiar with the playbook and his responsibilities. Allen cited that Davis simply needs to get more brushed up on where he needs to be, and get there. These next few practices as well as Sunday's preseason game will provide a glimpse into his growth from that perspective.
Davis was the main focus in the third team's 2-minute drills on Wednesday wherein he was the target of and caught three of the six passes attempted during the period. Davis was a large part of why that drive led to a simulated 47-yard game-winning field goal.
K Blake Grupe
After kicker Wil Lutz went 9/9 in field goal attempts during Wednesday's practice, the pressure is on for Grupe to follow up on Thursday. In fact, Lutz has gone 17/17 over the last two practices. Grupe will have a chance to put on his own show in the indoor facility, which could work to his favor. But any misses from the undrafted rookie competitor will be under the microscope as camp moves on.
RB Ellis Merriweather
Perhaps one of the least discussed players in all of Saints camp this offseason, Merriweather deserves a little more shine. With star running back Alvin Kamara suspended for the first three games of the season, there is an extra running back spot open on the depth chart. (Kamara will not count against the 53-man roster limit when the season begins.)
Merriweather has done some solid work in camp thus far. He snagged a one-handed touchdown in the near-corner of the endzone in 7-on-7s a few days ago. He has also produced as a power runner in team dreams while catching passes in the short area of the field as well. The UMass alum has an uphill battle against pass-catching back Kirk Merritt, but he should be far from counted out at this time.
