Training camp will determine the final composition of the New Orleans Saints’ 53-man roster. While we’re still about a month away, OTAs and minicamp have provided a preview of what the roster might look like in September.
The Saints may also make some free agency moves, as they have over $11 million in cap space. Although any moves may not be significant, they could still impact the roster.
I’ve divided my roster projection into two parts: offense and defense/special teams. Here’s my projection for the Saints’ 2024 offense:
**Quarterback (3): Derek Carr, Jake Haener, Spencer Rattler**
*Cut: Nathan Peterman*
Jake Haener and Spencer Rattler are vying for the backup quarterback spot. Both need time to adjust to the NFL and the new offensive scheme. Haener has an extra year of experience, but both players have potential. Nathan Peterman, despite his familiarity with quarterbacks coach Andrew Janocko and his supportive role in the quarterbacks room, is unlikely to be a quality backup.
**Running back (3): Alvin Kamara, Jamaal Williams, Kendre Miller**
*Cut: James Robinson*
The main issue among the running backs is Alvin Kamara’s contract situation. Jamaal Williams and Kendre Miller are competing for the backup role. James Robinson hasn’t impressed enough since leaving Jacksonville to secure a roster spot.
**Fullback (1): Zander Horvath**
*Cut: Adam Prentice*
The Saints might choose Zander Horvath for his versatility over Adam Prentice, who is a better blocker but less versatile.
**Wide receiver (5): Chris Olave, Rashid Shaheed, A.T. Perry, Cedrick Wilson, Bub Means**
*Cut: Equanimeous St. Brown*
Bub Means is the only uncertain inclusion, but his athleticism and physicality might earn him a spot. Equanimeous St. Brown, despite starting 16 games for the Bears in 2022, is seen more as a blocker.
**Tight end (3): Juwan Johnson, Foster Moreau, Dallin Holker**
*Cut: Michael Jacobsen, Jesper Horstead, Tommy Hudson*
Despite Juwan Johnson’s injury, he and Foster Moreau are expected to be key players. Dallin Holker offers future potential. Michael Jacobsen could potentially force the team to keep a fourth tight end.
**Taysom Hill**
Taysom Hill, a versatile player who lines up in various positions, is a lock for the roster and is one of the Saints’ most intriguing offensive weapons.
**Offensive line (9): Taliese Fuaga, Erik McCoy, Cesar Ruiz, Trevor Penning, Nick Saldiveri, Oli Udoh, Landon Young, Lucas Patrick, Shane Lemieux**
*Cut: Justin Herron, Josiah Ezirim*
The starting offensive line seems set, with Taliese Fuaga, Erik McCoy, Cesar Ruiz, Trevor Penning, and Nick Saldiveri as the frontrunners. Ryan Ramczyk’s return could alter this, pushing Penning to the left tackle spot. The rest of the line includes experienced players like Lucas Patrick, Oli Udoh, and Landon Young. Shane Lemieux’s injury history makes him the closest call for making the roster.