As the New Orleans Saints prepare to face off against the Houston Texans in their final regular-season game, we seize this moment to provide our ultimate roster projection in anticipation of the upcoming 2023-2024 NFL season. The Saints find themselves in contention for various positions, heightening the significance of this concluding preseason match in shaping their final lineup. Presented below is our definitive roster projection for the New Orleans Saints as they enter the new year. It’s worth noting that all NFL teams are mandated to trim their rosters to 53 players by 4 pm Eastern Time on Tuesday, August 29.
Breakdown: With star running back Alvin Kamara serving a three-game suspension, the Saints opt for a three-man running back lineup. Notably, Kamara’s suspension does not count against the final 53-player roster, affording Ellis Merriweather a place on the practice squad upon Kamara’s return.
Wide Receivers (6): Michael Thomas, Chris Olave, Rasheed Shaeed, A.T. Perry, Shaq Davis & KR Lynn Bowden Jr
Breakdown: While the first three wide receivers are expected selections, our projection sees six receivers securing spots on the active roster. The remaining trio—A.T. Perry, Shaq Davis, and returner Lynn Bowden Jr—exemplify undeniable talent and youthful potential.
Tight Ends (4): Juwan Johnson, Foster Moreau, Jimmy Graham & Taysom Hill
Breakdown: The selection of four tight ends, including Juwan Johnson, Foster Moreau, Jimmy Graham, and Taysom Hill, constitutes a well-defined and versatile unit that is unrivaled in the NFL.
Offensive Line (9): Ryan Ramczyk, Trevor Penning, Andrus Peat, Erik McCoy, Cesar Ruiz, James Hurst, Nick Saldiveri, Max Garcia & Storm Norton
Breakdown: While the core offensive linemen and swing offensive player roles are evident, the final choices encompass Nick Saldiveri, Storm Norton, and the experienced Max Garcia, who serves as a backup center.
Breakdown: The defensive line configuration comprises an exceptional assembly of talent, featuring versatile players capable of making impactful plays across the field.
Linebackers (5): Demario Davis, Pete Warner, Jaylon Smith, Zack Baun, & D’Marco Jackson
Breakdown: Demario Davis and Pete Warner are established members of the linebacker corps. Jaylon Smith‘s performance secures his position on the team, while Zack Baun, & D’Marco Jacksoncomplete the linebacker ensemble.
Breakdown: The cornerback contingent encompasses Marshon Lattimore, Paulson Adebo, Alontae Taylor, and Bradley Roby. Lonnie Johnson Jr can contribute here as well.
Safeties (6): Tyrann Mathieu, Marcus Maye, Jordan Howden, JT Gray, Lonnie Johnson Jr & Ugo Amadi
Breakdown: The safety position welcomes a mix of seasoned players and promising young talent, including Tyrann Mathieu, Marcus Maye, Jordan Howden, JT Gray, Lonnie Johnson Jr, and Ugo Amadi. Maye’s suspension results in an opening, potentially for Jonathan Abram or Smoke Monday, to further strengthen the safety ranks.
Special Teams (3): K – Will Lutz, P – Blake Gillikin & LS- Zach Wood
Breakdown: The special teams trio comprises Will Lutz as the consistent kicker, Blake Gillikin as the proficient punter, and Zach Wood as the long snapper, rounding out this specialized unit.
In summation, the New Orleans Saints possess a distinctive and formidable roster, brimming with depth and exceptional talent. With optimal health, this assembly could potentially dominate the NFC South and embark on a deep playoff journey. Our projected record estimate for the New Orleans Saints this season stands at 12-5.
