3 most surprising players to make the Saints 2020 53-man roster

Blake Gillikin

The Saints kept two punters on their 53-man roster. Yes, you read that correctly.

It was a peculiar move the team made, but they feel both are worthy of a spot. For the bulk of the punting duties, expect to see Thomas Morestead on the field. The team would free up $3.3 million in cap space if they traded Morestead.

However, he is under contract until 2023. The 34-year-old has been with the Saints for over a decade. Gillikin may be the future though, and with a skilled punter being a hot commodity, they decided not to waive him.

The Saints took the risk that Gillikin was more likely to be claimed off the waivers than a player like seventh-round draft pick Tommy Stevens. For now, Stevens retains in the organizations while Gillikin, who had a terrific camp, is on the 53-man roster.

All three players came as a surprise, but the Saints clearly view them as high-potential players.