Saints release first depth chart ahead of Week 1 game vs. Titans

We’re just days away from the New Orleans Saints’ home opener against the Tennessee Titans, and there’s a lot on the line. Both teams are feeling pressure to start this season with a win. The Saints haven’t lost in Week 1 since the 2018 season, but the Titans haven’t won their season opener since 2020. A slow start could mean trouble for either team.

The Saints released their first unofficial depth chart ahead of Sunday’s matchup, and it looks a lot like the previous versions the team has shared throughout the summer. But with some roster battles settled and the team thinned out after roster cuts a week ago, it’s worth checking in on each position group in search of answers.

Quarterback

Rookie quarterback Jake Haener is no longer listed after being suspended the first six weeks of the regular season.

Running back

Alvin Kamara has been suspended the first three games, but the Saints have a couple of backups on the practice squad in Tony Jones Jr. and Jordan Mims.

Wide receiver

The Saints also have three receivers on the practice squad: special teams ace Jontre Kirklin, promising rookie Shaquan Davis, and returns specialist Lynn Bowden Jr.

Tight end

Despite having been re-listed at quarterback, Taysom Hill is also going to get some snaps at tight end.

Offensive line

Having backups who can capably fill in on either side of the line is valuable, and all nine linemen could dress out on game day. Hurst has continued to get most of the first-team snaps at left guard since Peat returned from injury.

Special teams

Shaheed didn’t practice over the summer while recovering from a groin injury, so the team tried out Lynn Bowden Jr., Alontae Taylor, and Ugo Amadi in the returns specialist role.

Defensive line

It’s a loaded group, but the Saints also have defensive ends Niko Lalos and Kyle Phillips on the practice squad along with defensive tackle Jack Heflin.

Linebacker

Additionally, the Saints could bring up Jaylon Smith, Ryan Connelly, or Anfernee Orji from the practice squad.

Cornerback

Taylor will mainly play the slot when the Saints are in their nickel defense (their most-common look as opposed to base or dime) but they can also elevate rookie cornerback Anthony Johnson from their practice squad.

Safety

This doesn’t reflect what we’ve seen throughout the summer at training camp and in preseason games; Maye is a traditional over-the-top free safety while Mathieu is a versatile safety who can line up anywhere in the box. Remember, these are unofficial depth charts published by the team’s media relations staff, not the coaches. Strong safety Johnathan Abram is also on the practice squad.

Story originally appeared on Saints Wire