Saints continue preseason preparations
The New Orleans Saints are continuing their preparations for the upcoming preseason game against the Jacksonville Jaguars. Practices on Tuesday focused on late-game situations, with the defense demonstrating continued dominance over the offense. This performance is typical during the preseason, but the offense has shown recurring situational mistakes.
The team is nearing the completion of its system installation, with a focus on players who are expected to benefit from the offensive and defensive philosophies. The first preseason game against the Jacksonville Jaguars is scheduled for Saturday at 3:00 p.m. in the Superdome.
Offensive and defensive alignments
On offense, Tyler Shough started at quarterback, a role he has held since the second half of last season. Spencer Rattler took reps with the second team, while Zach Wilson worked with the third team. At running back, Trevor Etienne and Alvin Kamara both took reps with the first team, and Audric Estime also participated with the first team.
The starting wide receivers included Chris Olave and Jordyn Tyson on the outside, with Devaughn Vele in the slot. The second team receiving corps featured rookies Barrion Brown and Bryce Lance, alongside veteran Kevin Austin Jr. At tight end, Juwan Johnson and Noah Fant rotated with the first team, and rookie Oscar Delp took reps with the second team.
The offensive line maintained its usual starters: Kelvin Banks at left tackle, Taliese Fuaga at right tackle, David Edwards at left guard, Cesar Ruiz at right guard, and Erik McCoy at center.
Defensively, Carl Granderson and Chase Young started on the edge, with Vernon Broughton and Nathan Shepherd as the primary interior linemen. In the linebacker corps, veteran Kaden Elliss started alongside Danny Stutsman, who has been steadily securing a starting role. The defensive backfield remained consistent, with Quincy Riley and Kool-Aid McKinstry on the outside, and Justin Reid and Jonas Sanker at safety.
Player performances and injuries
Rookie wide receiver Bryce Lance has been noted for his consistent performance throughout training camp, often being one of the most targeted pass-catchers. He has also recently added strong playmaking to his consistent efforts. Fellow rookie wideouts Jordyn Tyson and Barion Brown are also players to watch.
Safety Julian Blackmon, who is expected to have a significant defensive impact in 2026, appears to have overcome an injury scare after leaving practice early for a knee issue. He is now back on the field and is anticipated to thrive in defensive coordinator Brandon Staley’s defense. Tight end Moliki Matavao has also shown significant improvement in his second year under head coach Kellen Moore.
Several players were dealing with injuries. Defensive tackle Davon Godchaux was sidelined with an ankle issue, and Rezjohn Wright sustained a hip injury during Tuesday’s practice. Defensive end Cam Jordan was unavailable due to a hamstring injury, and defensive lineman John Ridgeway III is managing a back issue, with his status day-to-day. Second-year running back Devin Neal is also day-to-day, performing rehab for a hamstring issue. Pete Werner, despite being in uniform, did not participate in full-team drills due to a groin issue.
Practice highlights and offensive challenges
The defense had a strong showing, with Martin Emerson Jr., a fifth-year cornerback, recording three pass breakups and an interception. Carl Granderson also made several impactful plays, consistently pressuring the right tackle and securing an interception.
On the offensive side, Kevin Austin Jr. made several catches, including a 25-yard touchdown from Spencer Rattler. Tyler Shough also made some notable throws, including a touchdown pass on fourth down in the red zone to Juwan Johnson. However, Shough completed 15 of 27 passes and threw two interceptions, while Rattler completed 7 of 9 passes but also threw an interception. Zach Wilson completed 9 of 15 passes without a turnover, but did not significantly distinguish himself.
A recurring concern for the offense has been a lack of situational awareness, particularly evident in late-game scenarios. One instance involved a false start on third-and-2 with 14 seconds remaining during a hurry-up drive. Despite this, Shough converted a fourth-and-1 with a touchdown to Johnson. However, Johnson later committed another false start in a separate 11-on-11 session. The team’s practice schedule for the week includes a closed session on Wednesday, a sold-out pads practice on Thursday, a closed walk-through on Friday, and the preseason game against the Jacksonville Jaguars on Saturday at 3:00 p.m. in the Superdome.
Source: louisianasports.net
Mason Reed
Sports reporter covering football, basketball and international competitions.