After a nearly disastrous loss to the New York Giants, the New Orleans Saints are facing another must-win situation against the Pittsburgh Steelers, and the game will be played overseas in Paris.
In that Week 6 game, the Saints’ rookies put on some nice performances, and Week 7 may be the breakout game for this class.
WR Jordyn Tyson
Finally, we can talk about Jordyn Tyson. Although his availability for Sunday’s game is up in the air, he did travel with the team, which means there’s a chance he plays. The Saints’
offense has had a number of issues this season, and although Tyson will not fix everything, he is a massive upgrade over Bryce Lance. The injuries have been demoralizing, to say the least, but Tyson is an extremely talented player who can be one of the best WRs in the NFL. Although I would expect a small sample size if he does play, we may finally see him on the field.
DT Christen Miller
Although this was another game where the Saints went with other DT options over Miller, he did get on the field and helped shut down New York’s running game. In Week 7, the Saints face a much better rushing attack led by Jaylen Warren, so they will have to rely on Miller a bit more.
TE Oscar Delp
Against the Giants, Delp had his best game so far. He made some really important blocks that significantly helped the run game and had two catches. It wasn’t an incredible performance by any means, but one that could lead to more snaps for Delp.
Delp is likely going to be in the same exact role for Week 7.
OG Jeremiah Wright
Here we go!
After Cesar Ruiz left the game with an injury, rookie Jeremiah Wright was thrown into the lineup, and suddenly the run game looked great. Could this be a coincidence? Maybe. But it was clear that lanes were being opened up that the running backs could easily take advantage of. He got pushed back and beat at times, any rookie would, but overall, it was exactly what you wanted to see in his first real game. Now with Ruiz’s health in question, and the fact Wright’s debut was positve, the Saints must start him in Week 7. Might as well see what you have with Wright in a full game.
WR Bryce Lance
This was an up-and-down game for Lance. He once again had some head-scratching moments, including a drop, but he also scored the first touchdown of his young career. With Tyson’s return, Lance may be demoted to a more blocking role, but that may be better for now, especially as he develops.
WR Barion Brown
I thought Barion Brown had the best game of his career as well. He had some really nice returns and made a nice contested catch that may have been an interception if he didn’t get to the ball. Brown will likely fall to WR5 on the depth chart, but just like Lance, that’s perfectly fine.
RB CJ Donaldson
Another up-and-down game, Donaldson had some really nice runs to begin the game and fought for some tough yards. He nearly scored the first touchdown of his career, but was called back after his knee was down short. His blocking was also good, which was needed against the blitzes. Then we get to the fumble. The Giants’ comeback started after Donaldson fumbled, and that put a stain on this performance. Not sure if Donaldson will see fewer snaps in Week 7, but it’s something to monitor.
OT Mason Murphy
Murphy did not come into this game like last week, but after Asim Richards clear struggles against the Giants, it may be time for New Orleans to try something new.
DB Lorenzo Styles Jr.
Styles Jr. was once again an impact player on special teams, which is exactly why the Saints drafted him.
