New Orleans Saints wide receiver Devaughn Vele led the team’s receiving corps with the most snaps in their 17-7 victory over the Carolina Panthers. Despite being the primary presence on the field, Vele saw limited action in the passing game, finishing the afternoon with just one catch for 15 yards.
Following the Saints trade of Rasheed Shaheed to the Seattle Seahawks, many expected Vele to take on a larger role and become more involved in the offense moving forward. However, while the Saints receiving corps had their best performance on the season, Vele had very little to do with it, struggling to make an impact despite leading the group in snaps.
Vele hasn’t been a big part of the Saints offense this season, only recording 6 catches for 54 yards and a touchdown. He has only participated in 129 passing snaps and doesn’t qualify for a PFF grade due to the lack of snaps.
Saints look for Devaughn Vele to rediscover his Denver form
Kellen Moore said Vele would become more used in the offense after the Shaheed trade. It's only one week, but that only seems to be half true. Vele was a heavy part of the offense, but not how it was expected. He saw a lot of snaps, but Vele still wasn't used like the big bodied receiver people have clamored for. Most importantly, Vele was rarely targeted despite being on the field for every pass play.
The Saints acquired Vele in a trade from the Denver Broncos back in August of 2025, sending a 2026 4th round pick and a 2027 7th round pick in return. The Saints brought him in to add a big body receiver that could make contested catches to a team that lacked one. The front office saw great value in his contract and potential, after having a promising rookie season with 41 catches for 475 yards and 3 touchdowns.
Despite limited production in his opportunities during week 10, his snap count is expected to remain high, and his numbers should gradually increase as the second year receiver looks to recapture his form that he showcased in Denver last season. This weeks bye week can help him reset, build stronger chemistry with the offense, and set himself up for a bigger impact down the stretch.