The New Orleans Saints‘ cut day decisions have left both relief and intrigue among fans as wide receiver Tre’Quan Smith and linebackerZack Baun managed to secure spots on the roster. Smith’s status had been in question due to a lingering groin injury, while Baun faced competition from other linebackers for his place on the team.
Tre’Quan Smith, a wideout who has showcased his talents in previous seasons, encountered a setback with a groin injury during practice on August 5. This ailment prevented him from participating in any preseason action, stirring concerns about his readiness for the regular season.
#Saints 53-man roster (plus Alvin Kamara) after Tuesday's cuts. It's going to look different this time next week after a couple players go on injured reserve with waiver claims processing tomorrow, but for now we've got
Despite the injury, Smith’s experience and potential still earned him a spot on the 53-man roster. His 131 career receptions for 1,764 yards and 18 touchdowns over five NFL seasons highlight his capabilities. However, Smith’s presence has sparked debates among fans, who question his place on the team in light of other receivers’ performances.
Meanwhile, linebacker Zack Baun faced a critical evaluation during cut day. The third-round selection from the Saints showcased his athleticism and versatility on the field, with a blend of pass rush skills and coverage abilities. However, Baun’s performance in pass coverage and pursuit angles came under scrutiny.
This opened the door for competition from free agent linebacker Jaylon Smith, who outperformed Baun in the preseason. Ultimately, Baun managed to secure his place on the roster, reflecting the coaching staff’s belief in his potential to contribute to the team’s defensive schemes.
The decisions to retain both Smith and Baun have prompted mixed reactions among fans and analysts. Some applaud Head Coach Dennis Allen‘s confidence in these players and his commitment to nurturing their growth. Others express skepticism, raising concerns about their readiness and the potential competition they might face from up-and-coming talents.
As the NFL season unfolds, the performances of Tre’Quan Smith and Zack Baun will be closely monitored. Whether they can overcome their respective challenges and live up to their potential remains to be seen. The Saints’ coaching staff’s confidence in these individuals suggests they see untapped capabilities that could make a difference on the field. With expectations and doubts intermingling, only time will reveal the impact of these controversial cut day decisions.
