The New Orleans Saints are set to make significant roster moves as they finalize their 53-man squad ahead of the regular season opener against Arizona Cardinals on Sept. 7. The team has been dealing with injuries and tough decisions, particularly at linebacker and defensive lineman.
Veteran defensive tackle Khalen Saunders was traded to the Jacksonville Jaguars, and quarterback competition between Spencer Rattler, Tyler Shough, and Jake Haener is nearing its end. The Saints will likely keep three quarterbacks on the active roster, with Haener potentially serving as a veteran backup. Running back Devin Neal is expected to make the roster despite missing time due to injury.
Wide receiver Devaughn Vele’s addition has created uncertainty about Cedrick Wilson Jr.’s status, while tight ends Juwan Johnson and Jack Stoll will start the season on injured reserve. The Saints have signed center Luke Fortner and are considering an extra interior lineman to accommodate Trevor Penning’s toe injury.
On defense, Cameron Jordan is a clear starter, but the last spot among defensive linemen has gone to Khristian Boyd. Linebacker Jaylan Ford is in contention for a roster spot alongside Nephi Sewell. Safeties Julian Blackmon and Justin Reid are locks, while cornerbacks Alontae Taylor and Isaac Yiadom are part of the team’s core.
Specialists Zach Wood (LS), Blake Grupe (K), and Kai Kroeger (P) have secured spots on the roster, with Charlie Smyth potentially joining as a practice squad candidate. The Saints will cut players before 4 p.m. ET on Tuesday to finalize their 53-man roster.
Source: https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/46010174/new-orleans-saints-final-53-man-roster-projection-2025