The New Orleans Saints have their last preseason game against the Denver Broncos. For many players, this is an audition for the Saints and the other 31 teams. The Who Dat Dish team gave our player with the most to improve, and Devin Neal was the unanimous answer.
The stakes are clear for Neal. He just returned from injury, and is entering into his first preseason game. Naturally, he's had less opportunities to make his case for a spot on the main roster. He gets to change that on Saturday.
Neal's is in competition with Clyde Edwards-Helaire and Cam Akers for the third running back slot. The rookie, like many other players on the bubble, is entering a make or break moment. Neal may be starting behind, but the path to flipping that into a spot on the roster is right in front of him.
Devin Neal looking to win a Saints position battle in 60 minutes
Darrion Gray: Devin Neal- RB
Someone once said, “you only get one shot, do not miss your chance to blow.” That's what Devin Neal is walking into. He has a chance to come in and steal the third running back role. With the Saints reportedly showing interest in trading for a running back, they’re clearly unsatisfied with the position. Neal hasn’t had a chance to display his talents due to injury until now. It’s one game to show why the Saints need to put the phone down. He has to deliver on the draft hype and deliver quickly.
Drew Collings: Devin Neal- RB
Devin Neal has the most to prove in Saturday’s game. Neal was drafted in the sixth round but has yet to see the field due to a hamstring injury. He had an illustrious career at Kansas and has shown the ability to be a consistent, reliable back which is exactly what the Saints need. He is trending towards playing so a big game from Neal would solidify his spot on the roster and could earn him snaps in the regular season.
Molly Bauer: Devin Neal- RB
Neal is the player with the most to prove on Saturday. He's someone I know has the speed and ability to help the Saints; after all, he is Kansas' career rushing yardage leader. However, his hamstring injury has kept him out for several weeks, and during that time, he has lost reps while others have stood out. The fact that he was drafted in the sixth round doesn't help his case either, because he was never guaranteed a roster spot to begin with.
Tramell Jeffers: Devin Neal- RB
After missing a few weeks with a hamstring injury, Devin Neal will return and have one final shot to impress the coaching staff, in attempt to making the 53 man roster. There is a tiny smidge of hope for him, as the running back room hasn’t done much to declare a third string running back spot. Neal will have to be outstanding Saturday to make up for his absence.