3 Players to Watch at Saints Camp Day 14
With a new face in the building for the New Orleans Saints, it is no wonder where we will be most focused at Friday’s practice in the Caesars Superdome this will be the team's final practice before their preseason game this Sunday against the Kansas City Chiefs. It promises to be an important and impactful one ahead of the Saints finally Seeing full speed, live game action under the lights.
Dec 4, 2022; East Rutherford, New Jersey, USA; New York Giants linebacker Jaylon Smith (54) gestures to the crowd against the Washington Commanders during the second half at MetLife Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Rich Barnes-USA TODAY Sports
LB Jaylon Smith
As the new face in the building, assuming he practices, Smith will be the apple of everyone’s eye on Friday. The Saints signed him after a visit with veteran linebacker Anthony Barr did not lead to a contract. Smith's brand of linebacker play is one built upon a foundation of athleticism. While his speed and agility may have taken hits due to injuries throughout his career, he is continuously showing a propensity to play sideline-to-sideline and produce as a coverage linebacker. He has also shown that he can be active as a run defender. Smith's 7.6% regular season missed tackle rating is an impressive career mark thus far.
The Saints had some struggles early in the season last year with tackling and perhaps Smith’s efficiency will be able to help them there as well. The first priority, however, should be how Smith impacts New Orleans with his coverage ability. Head coach Dennis Allen said just days ago that the team is still looking for its off-ball linebacker behind starters Demario Davis, and Pete Werner. Should that be the case and Smith impresses the role could be all his.
DT Malcolm Roach
Roach has been off to a fantastic start through training camp after making a decision to return to the team this off-season. He is one of only two remaining defensive tackles from last year‘s roster. Roach was my pick for breakout player of the season going into 2023, and so far he’s lived up to that expectation. He continuously makes plays in the run game and has proven to be disruptive as a pass rusher. Going into this weekend's preseason game against the Chiefs, he will look to impress on a broader stage. Friday's practice has the potential to set him up for that success.
OL James Hurst
Hurst certainly has not escaped attention throughout training camp as it looks like he is potentially pushing starting left guard Andrus Peat for his role. While Peat has been out of practice dealing with injury, Hurst has filled in well. Allen and the rest of the Saints coaching staff do not seem to have any hesitations around Hearst as a starter. Especially considering how much she’s already contributed to the offensive line since joining the team.
While Hearst has nothing to prove at this point, he still has a lot to gain game prep and in-game action. His performance these next few days can be a determining factor and whether or not he goes from preseason Week 1 starter to regular season Week 1 starter.
