Saints Stock Watch: Fallers after preseason game one win vs. Chiefs
The New Orleans Saints got an exciting victory in preseason game number one. They defeated the Kansas City Chiefs, 26-24, on a field goal by Blake Grupe as time expired. There were many takeaways from their first action of this year. Which players had their stock fall in Sunday's win? Hae now, you're a rookie […]
The New Orleans Saints got an exciting victory in preseason game number one. They defeated the Kansas City Chiefs, 26-24, on a field goal by Blake Grupe as time expired. There were many takeaways from their first action of this year.
Which players had their stock fall in Sunday's win?
Hae now, you're a rookie
Saints rookie quarterback Jake Haener didn't have the best showing in his first NFL action. He went 10/17 with one touchdown and one interception. He and the center also misplayed the snap on the two point conversion late in the game. Haener's third quarter was rough, but his play in the second half of the fourth quarter was much better. He needs to work off of that.
Keep in mind that he was playing with mostly third-string players on the depth chart, too. Regardless, you could tell that his nerves were playing a role in his first NFL. That's not shocking and will improve with more time and reps. The Saints are undoubtedly still excited about the potential of Haener.
Bad luck of the Irish?
Isaiah Foskey was a second-round pick for the Saints in this year's NFL draft. He's been a bit quiet during camp, and that continued in Sunday's game. Foskey wasn't winning often at all off the edge for New Orleans, and his unpolished techniques were on full display. He consistently tried to win with a bull rush, and that just wasn't working out for the rookie.
As of now, Foskey looks like a 'project' DL for the Saints. He must add more tools to his toolbox to win at the next level. Foskey will have to make large improvements in order to see much playing time in year one.
Rough weather for Miller
Kendre Miller was the sole major injury for the Saints in their game against the Chiefs. The rookie running back left the game and did not return with a knee injury. That's tough for Miller because he was slated to play a bigger role early in the season with Alvin Kamara's suspension. Now, he will wait to see if he is going to miss meaningful time or not.
Not to mention, in his absence, Ellis Merriweather was solid for the Saints against KC. He totaled 41 yards and caught a touchdown as well. He's a player battling for a roster spot, and today helped his chances. For Miller, the hope is that the injury won't force him to miss a lot of time. The Saints need him for running back depth, alongside Jamaal Williams.
Saying all this, please remember one thing. It's game one. It isn't time to panic.
