3 Players to Watch at Saints Camp Day 20
METAIRIE -- Friday is the final practice before the New Orleans Saints are set to face the Houston Texans. This is crunch time for those fighting for a spot on the team's 53-man roster. The good news for those that may not end up sticking around in New Orleans is that they also have a chance to audition once more before the other 31 teams in the NFL. But for now, here are the three player we will be watching as they fight for their opportunity in the Big Easy.
Aug 11, 2023; Metairie, LA, USA; New Orleans Saints wide receiver Jontre Kirklin (85) works on receiver drills during training camp at the Caesars Superdome. Mandatory Credit: Stephen Lew-USA TODAY Sports
WR Jontre Kirklin
The former LSU Tiger has found ways to impress since joining. He consistently finds his way open in the intermediate and deep areas of the field, contributes as a returner and is taking gunner reps in punt coverage as well. Kirklin has been impressive in his time with the Saints, but the numbers may work against him. With players like Michael Thomas, Chris Olave, Rashid Shaheed, A.T. Perry and Keith Kirkwood established ahead of him, it may be a practice squad spot he is working towards. But in any case, the opportunity for him is here in New Orleans, and therefore a chance for him to be back close to home.
DT Jack Heflin
The former XFL teammate of Kirklin is also jostling for some positioning with the Saints. Heflin has made several plays throughout camp and has made good on his preseason opportunities. He is a big-bodied middle-of-the-line run plugger that can be surprisingly disruptive in the passing game as well. Heflin's another guy that is doing all the right things while simply fighting the numbers battle.
LB Ty Summers
Summers actually has a lot going for him. He has been a surging presence in the middle of the defense at linebacker while already having the reputation of being a core special teamer, which he gained last season. Summers is also learning a ton of new ways to contribute on defense. He has consistently been a MIKE linebacker throughout his time in college and the pros but has started taking more reps at WILL and SAM on either side of the defense as well. If he shows that he can add value at all three linebacker spots, he may have a great chance to earn his role and spot on the roster beyond special teams.
