5 players Saints fans should keep close eye on in preseason opener

The New Orleans Saints cleared the way for position battles and roster bubble players to take center stage from snap one of the preseason after hosting joint practices with the Jacksonville Jaguars. We’ve looked at the golden opportunity ahead of Audric Estime, and he isn’t alone. There’s 5 more players in great position to seize the day. 

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All eyes on Spencer Rattler-Barion Brown connection in Saints preseason debut

Spencer Rattler

No Tyler Shough in the preseason means this is the Spencer Rattler show. It wouldn’t be surprising to see him and Zach Wilson both get a half to play, with Rattler getting the first half. Hunter Dekkers will also get some time late Saturday.

Rattler’s had a good camp, and we’re always looking to see if he’ll play well enough to attract another team. Whether the Saints decide to deal him likely has as much to do with trust in Wilson to be the new backup, but Rattler has a chance to greatly boost his stock. His performance in camp suggests he’s ready for it. 

Barion Brown

It came down to picking Brown or Lance. Both rookies have had a strong camp, but Brown makes this list for two reasons. He’s been the star of camp, and he can flash his return ability in the preseason. 

It already feels like a lock Brown makes the roster, but one big play in game action will send Saints fans over the moon. He’ll also return kickoffs and punts. It’s the trait fans were initially most excited about but we’ve only seen Brown catch kicks at this point but not return them.

Oscar Delp

Delp arrived in New Orleans with George Kittle comparisons to his name, despite meager collegiate production. It’s been quiet for Delp all camp. There hasn’t been much reported positively or negatively. 

Fans should watch Delp to show something. Unlike others, he isn’t playing for a roster spot or role or to build on camp momentum. However, fans should keep an eye on if the highly anticipated rookie can standout. 

Vernon Broughton/ Christen Miller

Broughton is technically a starter with Bryan Bresee out for the season, but he missed all last year with injury. It’ll be interesting to see if Moore sits him with the rest of the starters or gets him some much needed snaps. 

If Broughton doesn’t see the field, there will be even more attention on rookie Christen Miller. Miller hasn't been working with the first team as much, but he'll be a big part of the Saints interior rotation this year. He may not jump off the screen, but the hope is he's at least taking up blockers for others to make plays.

Jayden Price

Price has also been one of the surprises of camp. His ability to contribute on special teams will be a deciding factor in whether or not he’ll make the roster, but he’s catching eyes for the plays he’s making on defense. 

The STAR role is securely Jonas Sanker, but Price has earned some snaps with first team as well. This preseason game will give him extended time to flex his defensive talents to Saints fans. 

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