Saints: 3 training camp battles to keep an eye on

Number Three: No. 3 Wide Receiver

After the addition of Pro Bowl wide receiver Emmanuel Sanders this offseason, the top two spots at the top of the receiving tier are set in stone. The intriguing battle will come from the lower ranks of the position as a few guys could be competing to be in the mix for the number three receiver spot.

A few notable names competing for a spot on the field are Tre’Quan Smith, Deonte Harris, and Ty Montgomery.

Let’s start with Smith.

Tre’Quan Smith is likely the favorite to land the starting number three wide receiver spot, at least to start the season anyway. Smith hasn’t gotten much playing time in his career thus far due to injuries and improper usage, but a strong 2020 training camp can propel him into a larger role.

Smith, 24, has logged 46 receptions for 661 yards and 10 touchdowns in his two seasons with the Saints.

The next man up is Deonte Harris. Deonte Harris had a phenomenal rookie season in 2019 as an undrafted free agent out of Assumption College, but he dominated in the return game. The Saints staff has been vocal about wanting to use Harris in the offense more, but he will have to earn his playing time like everyone else.

Harris saw action in the Pro Bowl as a return specialist in 2019 and he also saw some reps on the Saints offense as well. The Saints love the versatility Harris has and could use him more if he has a strong training camp.

The final man competing for a spot in the number three receiver role is recently signed dual-threat athlete Ty Montgomery. Montgomery has all the tangibles you look for in a wide receiver.

He has the size, speed, and agility but he also brings experience to the table, unlike the previous two players. Montgomery can also play running back and will be competing with Dwayne Washington for the number three spot in that position as well.