The New Orleans Saints concluded their preseason on Sunday, and three players stood out by securing their spots on the 53-man roster.
With the 2024 preseason and training camp now behind them, the Saints, like the rest of the NFL, face the challenging task of reducing their roster from 90 to 53 players. Coaches must carefully review practices and preseason performances to assemble the best possible team.
Inevitably, some talented players will be cut, as only a limited number can be retained at each position. That’s why the final preseason game held significant weight. The Saints chose to rest their starters, giving players on the roster bubble one last chance to prove themselves.
Despite a 30-27 loss to the Tennessee Titans, a few players solidified their place on the regular-season roster.
3. Rico Payton secures a Saints roster spot
Rico Payton likely had his roster spot secured before this game even began. The undrafted rookie has consistently impressed throughout the preseason. With plenty of targets coming his way, he has proven to be a reliable shutdown corner against his opponents.
On Sunday, Payton made an impact in a new way, recording a crucial sack on a cornerback blitz. He ended the game with three tackles, one sack, and likely, a spot on the roster.
2. Equanimeous St. Brown earns his place on the roster
Veteran wide receiver Equanimeous St. Brown was another standout performer. Starting the game strong, he made several key plays early on, which should help him survive the final roster cuts. St. Brown was targeted four times, catching three passes for 40 yards and a touchdown.
With the other receivers struggling to catch passes, St. Brown and A.T. Perry were the only dependable options on the field. It became evident that St. Brown will likely edge out other receivers on the bubble.
1. Jordan Mims claims his roster spot
Jordan Mims has been in a precarious position since camp began. When Kendre Miller sustained a hamstring injury, Mims stepped into the No. 3 running back role. Although many expected Miller to return and reclaim that spot, Mims seized the opportunity.
On Sunday, Mims capped off a strong training camp and preseason, finishing with five carries for 33 yards. With Miller still sidelined by his injury, the Saints will find it difficult to justify keeping him over Mims, who has undoubtedly earned his place on the roster.
