5 Saints who need to be leaders for the franchise in 2020
Number One: Tre’Quan Smith
Tre’Quan Smith is a wide receiver with a lot of potential and can really thrive with the New Orleans Saints in 2020.
Smith, 24, was always stuck as a bottom tier option for the Saints as they forced the ball to Michael Thomas or Ted Ginn Jr., but 2020 is his season to shine and I’m here to tell you why.
Smith has been a solid wide receiver for the Saints in his two seasons, but he really has the potential to pop off in 2020. Smith never really got the opportunity to learn behind anyone before being thrust into NFL action out of college which could be a reason for his slow start.
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The inconsistency of Ted Ginn mixed with the lack of depth at the position forced Smith to accept his role quickly.
Despite him being rapidly forced into action, Smith has still outshined all expectations for him.
In two seasons in the black and gold, Smith has hauled in 46 receptions, 661 receiving yards, a 14.4 yards per reception average, 42 first downs, and ten touchdowns. It’s crazy to see how only four of the receptions weren’t good enough for a first down.
With the addition of Emmanuel Sanders, Tre’Quan Smith should see an increased role as the number three wide receiver. Smith will also likely be a favorite target of Drew Brees. Smith stands at 6-foot-2, 210 pounds and is one of the most physical receivers on the team.
Smith also was the recipient of Drew Brees’ touchdown pass, a touchdown long enough to help him pass Peyton Manning for the NFL record in passing yardage.
A healthy Tre’Quan Smith could be a lethal sight for any defense. Smith will almost always be on the favored side of any matchup against a safety or linebacker which could result in a big numbers jump in 2020.