3 New Orleans Saints players who could lose their starting job in 2023
A tough part of the NFL off-season is the outcome for some players in position battles. Veterans often lose their starting jobs as young players emerge as playmakers across the NFL. For the New Orleans Saints, a few position battles stand out. They could cost a few players their starting gigs and even their roster […]
A tough part of the NFL off-season is the outcome for some players in position battles. Veterans often lose their starting jobs as young players emerge as playmakers across the NFL. For the New Orleans Saints, a few position battles stand out.
They could cost a few players their starting gigs and even their roster spot in some cases. Three players, in particular, need to step up in a massive way to keep their job for the Saints.
Paulson Adebo, Cornerback
Adebo began to slip down the depth chart a bit last season as he battled injuries. That being said, he was still listed as a starting outside CB for the Saints.
Alontae Taylor, in all likelihood, will take his place there this season. He absolutely outplayed Adebo last season and provided a needed spark in the secondary as a young player. Adebo still deserves to be depth for the roster, but the starting spot should go to Taylor to begin the year.
James Hurst, Offensive Tackle
This outcome would actually probably excite fans. It would mean that young OT Trevor Penning is healthy and impressing the staff.
Hurst is a capable starter, but he's best suited for a depth role. He can play outside or inside on the OL, so having him as a backup is very useful for the Saints. Hurst projects to be the starter as of now, but a strong camp and preseason by Penning could overtake him.
Blake Gillikin, Punter
This one may shock some fans. Gillikin was an awesome weapon on special teams in 2021. Last season, he took a noticeable step back.
Undrafted free agent punter Lou Hedley is expected to battle with him for the starting job. Hedley was impressive during his time at Miami, and he could prove to be the more impactful punter for New Orleans. Only time will tell.
