New Orleans Saints Preseason Finale Takeaways
The New Orleans Saints closed their preseason with a back-and-forth battle that resulted in a 30-27 home loss to the Tennessee Titans. New Orleans closes out their preseason with a 1-2 record. More critical than preseason wins and losses, the Saints showed progress and promise in the three games. Most New Orleans starters and several projected second-teamers didn't suit up for the game. This was especially evident on the defensive side, where projected third-teamers or possible practice squad players started against the Titan's offensive starters. Most of the healthy scratches on the team's roster and depth chart showed where they stood. In contrast, many players made a last-ditch grasp for a roster spot.
In the Saints’ final preseason game against the Titans, Spencer Rattler made a compelling case for securing the backup quarterback spot behind Derek Carr. After a competitive battle with Jake Haener throughout the preseason, Rattler's performance on the field showcased his potential and readiness for the role. During the game, Rattler exhibited impressive poise and accuracy. He led the offense effectively, displaying a solid playbook command and making several key throws under pressure. His ability to make quick decisions and execute plays helped him stand out. Notably, Rattler demonstrated a knack for reading defenses and adapting his throws based on the coverage, which are crucial skills for a backup quarterback. In contrast, Jake Haener struggled with consistency and decision-making issues, which may have contributed to Rattler’s competitive edge. While Haener showed flashes of promise, he did not match Rattler's level of performance during this final preseason outing.
In the Saints’ final preseason game, Equanimeous St. Brown made a notable impression with a standout performance highlighting his potential as both a receiver and a special teams contributor. St. Brown’s most eye-catching moment came when he caught a deep pass from Spencer Rattler for a touchdown. This explosive play showcased his speed, route-running ability, and reliable hands, underscoring his capability to make significant contributions as a receiver. St. Brown’s ability to stretch the field and capitalize on deep passes demonstrates his potential to be a valuable asset in the Saints’ receiving corps. His performance suggests that he could be a solid receiver, capable of adding a dynamic element to the offense with his vertical threat and playmaking ability. Beyond his offensive potential, St. Brown's contribution to special teams could be equally impactful. His athleticism and awareness on the field make him a prime candidate to excel in various special teams roles, such as returning kicks or punts and covering kicks. His versatility and performance in both areas position him as a strong candidate for a roster spot, whether as a reliable receiver or a vital special teams player.
Isaiah Foskey’s preseason did not help his cause, as he struggled to make a positive impact following a challenging rookie season. Despite high expectations and his promise as a college standout, his preseason performance highlighted several areas of concern. First and foremost, Foskey's struggles were evident in his inconsistency on the field. He failed to make the splash plays, demonstrating his development and ability to contribute immediately. His pass-rushing effectiveness and ability to disrupt opposing offenses were less noticeable than his peers, which is concerning for a player expected to impact those areas significantly.
Additionally, Foskey’s preseason performance was marked by missed opportunities and lapses in technique. He often appeared slow off the line and struggled to engage effectively with offensive linemen, which limited his ability to apply pressure and make tackles. Compared to his rookie year, this lack of development and improvement raises questions about his readiness to step into a more prominent role.
As the NFL preseason wraps up, the New Orleans Saints' final game against the Titans has provided valuable insights into the team's preparations and personnel decisions. Spencer Rattler's impressive performance has positioned him as a strong candidate for the backup quarterback role, showcasing his readiness and potential behind Derek Carr. Meanwhile, Equanimeous St. Brown’s standout play, including a spectacular touchdown catch, has demonstrated his promise as both a receiver and a special teams asset, making a compelling case for his place on the roster. Conversely, Isaiah Foskey's preseason struggles highlight ongoing concerns following a disappointing rookie season. His lackluster performance and inconsistent play have raised questions about his development and ability to contribute effectively moving forward. As the Saints head into the regular season, these evaluations will be crucial in shaping their final roster decisions and game strategies. The preseason has offered a glimpse into the team's evolving dynamics, with certain players solidifying their roles and others needing to address critical areas of improvement. Fans and analysts will be watching closely to see how these developments impact the Saints' performance as they embark on their 2024 campaign.
