3 under-the-radar players to keep an eye on during Saints training camp
- Lewis Kidd should deliver in sophomore season
- Lucas Krull will be all about excellent route running
- When it comes to depth, D'Marco Jackson could be key
By Randy Gurzi
1. D'Marco Jackson, Linebacker
Kaden Elliss was one of several defensive free agents to leave in the offseason and the Saints won't be able to easily replace him. The fourth-year linebacker had 78 tackles and seven sacks before signing with the Atlanta Falcons.
In his absence, New Orleans will likely turn to Zack Baun but the former third-round pick hasn't done much to distance himself from the rest of the linebackers on the roster. With that being the case, the door could be open for someone such as D'Marco Jackson to come in and steal some snaps.
Jackson was a fifth-round pick in 2022 out of Appalachian State who has yet to make his debut in the NFL. He spent his rookie season on the IR and is now healthy and ready to show off his natural athleticism.
At the 2022 NFL Scouting Combine, Jackson impressed with a 4.55 time in the 40-yard dash while also hitting 10 feet and 5 inches on the broad jump.
Jackson is likely going to need to perform on special teams early in his career, especially since he was known as a bit of a freelancer in college, but if he's coached up right, he could turn into a solid depth piece.
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