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[New Orleans Saints]

Best breakout candidates for the Saints in 2025

Photo by Cooper Neill/Getty Images

Which member of the New Orleans Saints is likely to be a household name this time next year?

Pete Werner​

Pete Werner has come into his own as a solid starter at linebacker next to Demario Davis the last few years. In just 13 games last year he amassed 92 total tackles, which ranked second on the team, almost equaling his output of 93 in 16 games in 2023. Werner lacked the splash plays of an interception to sacks last year, but if he is able to keep up his high volume of tackles while staying healthy and pitching in a few interceptions or sacks, Werner could be looking at a career year and may even come close to or pass Davis’s tackle output in 2025.

Devin Neal​

The New Orleans Saints rookie with the best chance to have a breakout year I believe is running back Devin Neal. Neal plays a position that often gets a lot of attention from rookies due to the discourse around where to draft a running back that occurs each year. Rookie QB Tyler Shough will be locked in a battle for the starting job, and may not even see the field much this year, while top pick Kelvin Banks, Jr. plays a position that unfortunately often goes unnoticed among rookies (he may well end up being the best rookie the Saints have but ask yourself how much you heard Taliese Fuaga’s name on TV last year compared to someone like Bucky Irving). Neal should receive his fair share of touches each game next to Alvin Kamara, and his production in college should lead us to believe he will have a productive rookie year if given enough opportunity in 2025. He may not reach the same level of production, but he could be used in a similar way as Kamara was early in his career, as a pass catching option that gets a few carries a game to take some of the pressure off Kamara, who missed out on his first career 1,000-yard rushing season due to an injury last year.

Photo by Cooper Neill/Getty Images

Bryan Bresee​

The Saints top draft choice in 2023 was their leading sacker in 2024, but despite this, I still think he is yet to reach his ceiling. Bresee nearly doubled his sack output from his rookie year, and ranked 6th in the NFL in sacks among defensive tackles. If he continues on this path, he may have a Pro Bowl caliber season in 2025. His run defense could still use some work, but his effectiveness as a pass rusher makes him arguably the most valuable piece on the Saints defensive line.

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Source: https://www.canalstreetchronicles.c...st-breakout-candidates-for-the-saints-in-2025

 

[New Orleans Saints]

Saints set to work out former UFL tight end

Photo by Ken Murray/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images

New Orleans looking to add competition to a thin position group ahead of minicamp.

The New Orleans Saints are bringing in former UFL TE Seth Green as they look to boost competition in an arguably thin position group ahead of minicamp, according to Aaron Wilson of KPRC 2 Houston.

Maria Lysaker-Imagn Images

Seth Green, a 6-foot-4, 240-pound tight end, spent last season with the Arlington Renegades of the UFL after transitioning from quarterback to tight end during his time at the University of Houston. The 27-year-old snagged 13 receptions for 157 yards in 14 games for the Cougars his senior year.

Before transferring to Houston, Green spent three seasons with the Minnesota Golden Gophers, where he rushed for 388 yards and 15 touchdowns on 114 attempts—more rushing yards than his combined receiving and passing yards (297). He also hauled in six receptions for 83 yards during his time in Minnesota while earning Academic All-Big Ten honors in 2020.

Green signed with the Houston Texans as an undrafted free agent following the 2022 NFL Draft and participated in training camp before ultimately being released during initial 53-man roster cuts. In October of 2022, Green joined the Dallas Cowboys practice squad.

After originally signing a letter of intent with the Houston Roughnecks, Green was selected by Arlington in the XFL Dispersal Draft in January of 2024.

Last season in the UFL, Green caught 11 passes for 86 yards and one touchdown while adding three rushing yards on two carries in 10 games for the Renegades.

He delivers when given the opportunity and his versatility could be valuable in Kellen Moore’s offense.

Source: https://www.canalstreetchronicles.com/2025/6/10/24446647/saints-set-to-work-out-former-ufl-tight-end

 

[New Orleans Saints]

SB Nation Reacts Survey: How would you grade the Saints offseason so far?

Photo by Derick E. Hingle/Getty Images

Vote in this week's poll and let us know!

The New Orleans Saints held their first of three minicamp practices today which was open to the public, so fans got their 1st chance to see Kellen Moore, Barndon Staley and the 2025 team in action. With minicamp here and training camp quickly approaching next month, we are another step closer to the start of the 2025 season, so in this week’s reacts poll we are asking our readers: How would you grade the Saints offseason so far?

Vote in the link below and let us know your thoughts!

Welcome to SB Nation Reacts, a survey of fans across the NFL. Throughout the year we ask questions of the most plugged-in New Orleans Saints fans and fans across the country. Sign up here to participate in the weekly emailed surveys.

Source: https://www.canalstreetchronicles.c...w-would-you-grade-the-saints-offseason-so-far

 

[New Orleans Saints]

Saints to potentially add to their offensive line with a visit from Barry Wesley

Photo by Jason Clark/UFL/Getty Images

New Orleans brings in a young offensive lineman for a visit.

Per KRPC 2’s Aaron Wilson, the New Orleans Saints are bringing in offensive lineman Barry Wesley for a visit. Wesley is a relatively unknown player, bouncing between professional football leagues in recent years.

Offensive lineman Barry Wesley is working out for the #Saints.per a league source. #Falcons last year and @USFLStallions this spring @KPRC2

— Aaron Wilson (@AaronWilson_NFL) June 11, 2025​

He played his college ball at Colorado State for four years before going undrafted in the 2022 NFL draft. Following the draft, he would sign with the Massachusetts Pirates of the Indoor Football League. He would sign with the XFL's Seattle Sea dragons in January 2023.

His first time on an NFL roster wouldn’t come until May of 2023, when he would sign with the Atlanta Falcons. However, after staying on their practice squad and suffering an injury, he would be released by the Falcons in 2024 as part of their final roster cuts. In November of that year, he would sign with the Birmingham Stallions of the United Football League (UFL).

This past UFL season, he was the Stallions' sportsman of the year nominee, which is an award given out annually to one deserving player who exemplifies the highest standards of athletic excellence and community engagement, according to the UFL’s website.

Wesley could end up being a valuable depth piece. He has started at right guard, left guard, and left tackle for the Stallions this season, showing his versatility across the offensive line.

Source: https://www.canalstreetchronicles.c...offensive-line-with-a-visit-from-barry-wesley

 

[New Orleans Saints]

A look ahead at Week 16: Saints vs. Jets

Photo by Jim McIsaac/Getty Images

Big Apple travels to Big Easy for late-season matchup.

For the first time since 2021, the New Orleans Saints and New York Jets will square off when they meet at the Caesars Superdome in Week 16 of the 2025 NFL Regular Season. The game will also mark the first time New York has traveled to New Orleans since 2017.

The Saints-Jets matchup is one that has been pretty evenly matched over its 14 all-time meetings. New Orleans currently has an edge leading New York, eight wins to six. However, the Jets have fallen in four of six games since the beginning of the 21st century. New Orleans has won the previous two meetings including the most recent, a 30-9 thumping inside MetLife Stadium.

This year’s contest should be exciting regardless of the teams’ records at the time. The Jets and Saints both finished the 2024 campaign with a dismal 5-12 record, finishing in third and fourth places of their respective divisions. Each group underwent overhauls of rosters and staff in search of an improvement on last year’s results meaning some familiar faces are coming to town.

In January, the New York Jets hired former Detroit Lions defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn to be their new Head Coach. Prior to working under Dan Campbell in the motor city, Glenn spent time with the Saints as both a player and coach. He signed with New Orleans as a free agent cornerback for one season in 2008 before retiring from the league in 2010. Glenn was hired as a member of the Saints staff as the Defensive Backs coach where he remained from 2016-2020.

In addition to Glenn, former New Orleans Saints safety Chris Banjo now finds himself to be a member of the Jets staff as Special Teams Coordinator. Banjo played under Glenn in New Orleans from 2016-18 before leaving to finish his career with the Arizona Cardinals. Following his retirement, Banjo served a two-year stint as an assistant special teams coach under his former head coach Sean Payton whom Denver had just hired in 2023 for the same positional opening.

New York is not the only group with coaching changes. New Orleans hired Kellen Moore to be their new head coach this offseason. It is Moore’s first head coaching opportunity in the NFL after moving through the ranks. He previously served gigs with the Dallas Cowboys, Los Angeles Chargers, and most recently won Super Bowl LIX with the Philadelphia Eagles.

Both teams are going through interesting changes at quarterback as well. Justin Fields signed with the Jets in March as a free agent QB, leaving behind Pittsburgh where he played the 2024 season. Taking his spot in the Steel City? Aaron Rodgers, who Glenn and the Jets released during the same month.

While the Jets appear to have their QB1 sorted out, the Saints situation is still very much in limbo. Projected starting QB Derek Carr shocked fans everywhere when he announced his retirement from the league just last month. The move came after the NFL Draft in April when the Saints selected Louisville prospect Tyler Shough. Although Carr was dealing with injuries and recovery from last season, he made the decision to retire, ultimately saving New Orleans an approximate $30 million against the cap following a restructure on his contract.

With a current room of Shough, Spencer Rattler, Jake Haener, and Hunter Dekkers, many fans and members of the coaching staff have reiterated the interest peak in a true quarterback battle this year. Although Rattler and Haener have minimal playing experience, neither have managed an NFL win in a game they started.

For New York, their draft came from the offensive side of the football for three of their first four picks. Most notably, they selected tight end Mason Taylor out of LSU in the second round. Taylor’s father, Jason, is a Hall of Fame defensive end that also spent time with the Jets. Glenn and company are hoping to provide more weapons to Fields to coincide with stars Breece Hall and Garrett Wilson.

Obviously, a lot will change from now to then as we go the course of this regular season, but this seems like one to keep an eye out for late in the year. If both teams can stay healthy while getting close to the relative production they’re slated for, this cross-conference matchup will provide fans with some riveting storylines and football.

Source: https://www.canalstreetchronicles.com/2025/6/11/24444320/a-look-ahead-at-week-16-saints-vs-jets

 

[New Orleans Saints]

Saints cancel last day of minicamp for team outing

Photo by Derick E. Hingle/Getty Images

Team bonding is a clear priority.

Since the New Orleans Saints hired head coach Kellen Moore, the topic of culture and team morale has always been an important conversation. The Saints are coming off a highly disappointing season and an era of football filled with turmoil. This type of feeling has a chance of lasting a bit, so when a new coach comes in, one of their jobs is to get everyone back on track and bought in. With Kellen Moore and much of the coaching staff filled with former players, doing what is best for the players themselves is a massive priority. This can be taking off certain days to be with family, not overworking player in practice, or having some days dedicated to team building. Today was one of those days. The Saints and Kellen Moore have opted to take the team on a bonding outing rather than have the last day of minicamp.

#Saints HC Kellen Moore has cancelled their final minicamp practice for a team outing

— Tina Howell (@TinaHowellNOLA) June 12, 2025​

Cancelling the last day of minicamp came as a bit of a surprise, but Kellen Moore knows what he is doing. If the prior practices were underwhelming or had any issues, cancelling today would not have happened. Clearly, the Saints liked what they saw from the team and felt they earned a team outing.

The last team outing was a paintball day, and it has not yet been revealed what the team will do next.

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Source: https://www.canalstreetchronicles.c...-cancel-last-day-of-mini-camp-for-team-outing

 

[New Orleans Saints]

A look ahead as the Saints to face No. 1 Pick Cam Ward in Week 17 matchup

Photo by David Rosenblum/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images

A possible rookie QB showdown looms in a late season duel.

The New Orleans Saints are set to take on the Tennessee Titans during a Week 17 matchup of the 2025-26 NFL season.

The Titans drafted Miami’s Cam Ward with the first overall pick. Ward was elite in his final year in college, making him the obvious QB1 of the draft. The Saints would follow a day later, taking Louisville quarterback Tyler Shough with the No. 40 overall pick, making him the third signal-caller off the board.

Photo by Derick E. Hingle/Getty Images

Shough and Ward are the favorites to win their team’s starting quarterback job, making this on-the-surface regular week 17 matchup one to tune in to.

Tennessee has made exciting moves to accommodate their new rookie quarterback, notably signing former Seattle Seahawks wide receiver Tyler Lockett. The veteran wideout joins Calvin Ridley, Treylon Burks, and rookie Elic Ayomanor in the talented Titans wide receiver room.

The Titans also bolstered their offensive line with the signings of Dan Moore Jr. and Kevin Zeitler. Tennessee has had a struggling offensive line for several seasons and aimed to strengthen up the trenches before adding their rookie quarterback to the mix.

Despite the lack of performance, the Saints have emphasized strengthening their offensive line over the years and have finally fleshed out their starting five. With the selection of Kelvin Banks Jr. with the ninth overall pick, New Orleans will have 4 first-round picks and a second-round pick starting on their offensive line. The Saints also signed former second-round pick Dillon Radunz as depth over the offseason.

Both teams approached the offseason similarly while rebuilding for the future. From singing veteran wideouts to strengthening the trenches, the New Orleans and Tennessee have aimed to make life easier on their rookie quarterbacks.

The Saints and Titans have met 17 times dating back to 1971. Tennessee leads the all-time matchup with 9 wins to 7 losses and a tie. Over their last six matchups, the two teams have alternated winners with New Orleans having the most recent win during a 16-15 Week 1 victory to open the 2023 season.

While both teams are in the middle of a rebuilding era, the excitement of a potential rookie quarterback showdown makes this matchup one to watch. The Saints and Titans have made various moves to help their rookie quarterbacks, and their Week 17 matchup could be a peak into the future of these organizations.

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Source: https://www.canalstreetchronicles.c...to-face-no-1-pick-cam-ward-in-week-17-matchup

 

[New Orleans Saints]

Saints signing RB Cam Akers after minicamp visit

Stephen Lew-Imagn Images

Offense gains another backfield weapon.

The New Orleans Saints are signing RB Cam Akers to the active roster following a tryout during minicamp this week, per Dianna Russini.

The Saints are signing RB Cam Akers, per source.

— Dianna Russini (@DMRussini) June 13, 2025​

Akers, a five-year NFL veteran, is coming off the 2024 campaign in which he spent time with the Minnesota Vikings—the 5’10”, 217lb. back averaged over 4.5 yards per carry over 12 appearances last season. While Akers has been plagued by injuries in his past, a healthy Cam is also an effective piece.

In the early portion of his career, Akers was a member of the Los Angeles Rams' Super Bowl-winning team in 2021 after being drafted the year prior. In an already crowded running back room that includes Alvin Kamara, Kendre Miller, Clyde Edwards-Helaire, Devin Neal, among others, Cam will try to provide a jolt of leadership and competitive mentality to a Saints team that is trying to get back to double-digit victories since 2020.

What do you think about the Saints signing Cam Akers? How do you think he will fit in? Will anyone lose snaps or a roster spot to Akers? Let us know in the comments!

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Source: https://www.canalstreetchronicles.c...nts-signing-rb-cam-akers-after-minicamp-visit

 

[New Orleans Saints]

Kellen Moore emphasizing team chemistry as Saints conclude minicamp

Photo by Derick E. Hingle/Getty Images

Team bonding has become an evident priority for the rookie head coach.

The New Orleans Saints wrapped up mandatory minicamp on Thursday with a cancelled practice turned team outing, heading into the summer with an afternoon of golf at Five O Fore in the city.

The feel-good story emphasizes an initial theme as the Saints have gone through their earliest team activities in recent weeks: an evident focus on team building and chemistry.

The squad left the right impression on the coaching staff in the opening two days of minicamp, and first-year head coach Kellen Moore touched on his delight with the players’ performance in his media availability.

“We felt as our offseason program progressed, I thought our players were just doing an outstanding job,” said Moore.

The cancellation of the third and final practice of minicamp in favor of an afternoon to bond highlights the 36-year-old head coach’s early insistence on setting the culture, and the feeling around the team appears overwhelmingly positive.

“I think it’s really important to build on a solid foundation, [and] that foundation is really built around people first and foremost,” Moore explained.

As many players have touched on, the feel-good factor is just as present on the field as it is off of it.

“Everybody’s gelling well with this offense,” said second-year quarterback Spencer Rattler. “We’re pretty deep into the playbook, and it feels good.”

The chemistry is building on all fronts, with players and coaches alike sounding satisfied with the progress made throughout the offseason program.

What are your biggest takeaways from OTAs and minicamp? Are you onboard with Moore’s early emphasis on team chemistry? Let us know in the comments below.

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Source: https://www.canalstreetchronicles.c...ng-team-chemistry-as-saints-conclude-minicamp

 

[New Orleans Saints]

Fleur-de-Links, June 14: Saints add another running back to their roster

Stephen Lew-Imagn Images

Here are your daily New Orleans Saints links.

Saints have signed RB Cam Akers to a one-year deal - SI ​

The New Orleans Saints add another running back to their roster, signing former Rams and Vikings RB Cam Akers.

Saints and Chargers will not hold joint practices together this preseason - CSC​

Saints head coach Kellen Moore said the team does not plan to have a joint practice with the Chargers while in California for training camp.

Saints quarterback Hunter Dekkers helps team get a day off - SaintsWire ​

The rookie QB made a three-point shot in a team meeting which led to them getting the day off from minicamp practice for some fun team bonding time.

let it fly ️‍ pic.twitter.com/9ieNQxia6c

— New Orleans Saints (@Saints) June 12, 2025​

Source: https://www.canalstreetchronicles.c...ints-add-another-running-back-to-their-roster

 

[New Orleans Saints]

SB Nation Reacts Results: How would you grade the Saints offseason so far

Photo by Derick E. Hingle/Getty Images

50% of voters said...

This week, the New Orleans Saints concluded 2 of their 3 scheduled minicamp practices, with the team getting rewarded with a day off yesterday for a team bonding activity at Five O Fore Golf. This will be the last time the team is officially all together for a few weeks until training camp starts toward the end of the July, although the exact days have not been released just yet.

However, a lot has already happened in the offseason for the Saints with the signing of new head coach Kellen Moore, the drafting of QB Tyler Shough and retirement of Derek Carr. as well as Louisiana native Justin Reed signing the team in March. So, if this week's Reacts survey, we asked our readers how they would grade the Saints offseason so far.

50% of voters said they would give the Saints a “B” for their offseason moves with a grade of “C” coming in at a distant second with 26% of the votes. While the team officially is “off” until camp begins next month, the front office is always doing their due diligence on what moves to make next so we can surely expect some more signings and roster changes before the players hit the field again.

Check out all thing odds related for the upcoming NFL season from our friends at FanDuel at https://sportsbook.fanduel.com/navigation/nfl

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Source: https://www.canalstreetchronicles.c...w-would-you-grade-the-saints-offseason-so-far

 

[New Orleans Saints]

Update on some of the rookie quarterbacks around the league

Steve Roberts-Imagn Images

How does Tyler Shough compare?

When the NFL draft occurs, comparing prospects’ success in the league is the standard. This comes naturally when you have a favorite team, play fantasy football, or just look around the league. It is always nice to see a rookie on your favorite team doing better than the other players in the respective position or the round the player was drafted in. It sometimes becomes too much, but it can also be a great way to see how the overall draft class is doing in the league. Arguably, the main position where these comparisons can get heated and filled with passion from fans is with the quarterbacks.

In the last NFL Draft, the main conversation with the prospects was about comparing the extreme success of Jayden Daniels with the disappointing season of Caleb Williams. This conversation was a bit unfair to Williams, who is allowed to have growing pains as a rookie, but the season Daniels had just made things worse. It got to the point where people started to redraft the 2024 class and had Daniels as the 1st overall pick instead of Williams. It is just too early to make this decision, but this is what happens when comparisons happen. Still, when the team you write for (talking about me) drafted a quarterback in the second round, it is natural to see how the other rookies are doing, so let’s get started.

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Cam Ward - 1st overall pick by the Tennessee Titans​

Mark Zaleski / The Tennessean / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

Being the 1st pick in the draft always brings high expectations and hope to elevate a franchise. We just saw this type of pressure with Caleb Williams, but for some reason, the NFL world has not talked about Ward enough. When the Titans selected Ward, the conversation was short and morphed into discussing fellow quarterback prospect Shedeur Sanders. Since then, the NFL did not give the Titans any primetime games, which is irregular with a number one pick QB prospect, and there still has not been enough talk about the rookie. In my opinion, the league will regret this fast, because Cam Ward is a franchise quarterback and should be in the NFL for a long time.

The Quotes

Jim Wyatt, Tennesseetitans.com

Observations from @Titans minicamp on Tuesday, when QB @Cameron7Ward ended practice with 18 straight completions.

After an early INT in 7-on-7, Ward went 14-of-14 in the three team periods.

MORE https://t.co/Tum2iDboHx pic.twitter.com/vvCTgoS23f

— Jim Wyatt (@jwyattsports) June 10, 2025​

Will Boling, Will-Boling.com

Cam Ward read the blitz, made a check at the line, got Ridley one-on-one and delivered this bomb perfectly.

Impressive for anyone. Especially for a rookie in his first minicamp.

One of the best plays I’ve seen from him so far. pic.twitter.com/hdbterQJPU

— Will Boling (@will_boling) June 12, 2025​

Justin Garver, @titansfilmroom

Brian Callahan on Cam Ward talking trash while receiving the play call:

"I thought that was actually kind of remarkable." pic.twitter.com/5hbR1WEhBi

— Justin Graver (@titansfilmroom) June 11, 2025​

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Jaxson Dart - 25th pick by the New York Giants​

John Jones-Imagn Images

The only other quarterback prospect that was selected in the first round was former Ole Miss signal-caller Jaxson Dart. Throughout the draft season, the Giants were believed to be poised to select a quarterback early. They tried to trade up with the Titans for the first pick, but Tennessee's price for that selection was way too expensive. The next question was whether New York would pass up on one of these top prospects to reach for another quarterback, but instead, they stood strong and decided to trade up later in the first round for Dart. After signing Russell Wilson in free agency, whichever quarterback prospect the Giants drafted would likely be sitting for a year, so going for a high-potential prospect made sense. Head coach Brian Daboll is the correct person to have as a quarterback developer, and he finally has his rookie quarterback, but let’s see how Dart has been doing so far.

The Quotes

Connor Hughes, @Connor_J_Hughes

Jaxson Dart rough in the team period here. He had two pass breakups at the line, threw an interception, took a sack. 0/3 with INT the stat line. #Giants

— Connor Hughes (@Connor_J_Hughes) June 5, 2025​

Giant Insider, @GiantInsider

Slayton on Dart:

“You can see the arm talent, he can spin it.”

— The Giant Insider Podcast and Newspaper (@GiantInsider) June 12, 2025​

Ryan Dunleavy, nypost.com

I was at 2/3 of open OTAs.

My main Jaxson Dart takeaway is there’s no window too small for him to try to throw into. Leads to some pretty highlights and some tipped ball INTs. Believes in his arm. Not always looking for easy completion#Giants https://t.co/tIurnzYp5r

— Ryan Dunleavy (@rydunleavy) June 13, 2025​

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Tyler Shough - 40th pick by the New Orleans Saints​

Stephen Lew-Imagn Images

Leaving the first round, the next quarterback selected was at pick 40 by the New Orleans Saints. Tyler Shough was a surprise pick by many outside of the Saints world, but for people closer to the team, this was a pick waiting to happen. The Saints slowly became enamored by Tyler Shough’s playmaking ability, arm talent, and overall character throughout the draft process. New head coach Kellen Moore wanted to get his quarterback, and he found it in the second round. Still, there were many concerns with the selection, primarily due to Shough’s age, but the Saints needed to find a starting quarterback, and they believed they did just that. In practice, Shough has been in a heated quarterback battle with Spencer Rattler for the starting spot, and as of now, it is still too close to call.

The Quotes

Ross Jackson, louisianasports.net

#Saints rookie QB Tyler Shough’s arm continues to stand out, even on incomplete passes. He can push the ball downfield with seemingly little effort. Pretty impressive.

— Ross Jackson (@RossJacksonNOLA) June 11, 2025​

Nick Underhill, neworleans.football

Tyler Shough showed it today. Hit two bombs for TDs, real nice layered throw going to the sideline and had an incomplete pass on the move that barely missed but athleticism flashed. Encouraging performance

— Nick Underhill (@nick_underhill) May 29, 2025​

Matthew Paras, nola.com

I don’t mean to upload only Shough incompletions on here, but what a throw this was (even if it was incomplete) pic.twitter.com/Nm049Gyzo3

— Matthew Paras (@Matthew_Paras) June 10, 2025​

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Jalen Milroe - 93rd pick by the Seattle Seahawks​

Stephen Brashear-Imagn Images

The next quarterback selected in the NFL draft was Jalen Milroe in the third round by the Seattle Seahawks. Milroe was known as the biggest project in the draft. This was due to his issues with passing consistency, decision making, and overall real quarterback mechanics, but a team would take a chance. Milroe has extraordinary athleticism and a beautiful deep ball, which makes him very intriguing to teams. Teams who needed a QB immediately stayed away, but the Seahawks, who do not need Milroe for at least this upcoming season, selected Milroe. This is a perfect opportunity for Milroe to sit for at least a year and learn behind Sam Darnold. Doing this allows Milroe to work on some of the scouts' worries, and the good news for the Seahawks is that the rookie quarterback is already improving.

The Quotes

Gregg Bell, thenewstribune.com

Rookie Jalen Milroe throwing today to end #Seahawks minicamp.

These last 2 practices his best so far.

Coach Mike Macdonald told his 3rd-round pick from Alabama during practice how much better he looks now compared to rookie minicamp in May. Milroe flashed him a beaming smile. pic.twitter.com/lh06J9Zpt7

— Gregg Bell (@gbellseattle) June 12, 2025​

Corbin K. Smith, emeraldcityspectrum.com

Thought Jalen Milroe had his best practice so far for #Seahawks today. Had a beautiful touchdown pass to undrafted rookie Tyrone Broden in 7-on-7. pic.twitter.com/LtVVJfat39

— Corbin K. Smith (@CorbinSmithNFL) June 11, 2025​

Austin Abbott, @AustinAbbottFF

Seahawks GM (John Schneider) on Jalen Milroe:

“He’s got some of those wows and woes and then all of a sudden he takes off, scoring from 50, 60, 70 yards and running 22 MPH.”

“He’s a special man.. he’s been great so far, everyone RAVED about his work ethic and his personality.” pic.twitter.com/qoiLKcOi1v

— Austin Abbott (@AustinAbbottFF) May 29, 2025​

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Dillon Gabriel (94) & Shedeur Sanders (144) - Selected by the Cleveland Browns​

Ken Blaze-Imagn Images

For the last quarterbacks, I decided to combine them into one spot due to them both being drafted by the same team. Starting with the earlier selection, Dillon Gabriel was a surprise pick at 94. Shedeur Sanders was still on the board, and with Cleveland’s rumored interest in Sanders, it was a shock to see them go with a different quarterback. What might have been even more shocking was the Browns returning to the quarterback pool and selecting Sanders at 144. It’s not uncommon for teams to select a particular position twice. Still, with the media pressure a pick like Sanders brings to a quarterback competition, they should have drafted him at 94 or selected a different player there. Still, this is a very open quarterback competition, and either prospect could separate and become the starter by week 1.

The Quotes

The Dawgs Podcast, thedawgspodcast.com

Here are the combined numbers for each Browns QB through OTAs and minicamp (according to the official ESPN Cleveland QB stat trackers).

Joe Flacco
- 18/35 (51.4% CMP), 2 TD 0 INT

Kenny Pickett
- 38/63 (60.3% CMP), 7 TD 0 INT

Dillon Gabriel
- 48/83 (57.8% CMP), 8 TD 0 INT… pic.twitter.com/EafkKBjQVa

— The Dawgs - A Cleveland Browns Podcast (@thedawgspodcast) June 12, 2025​

John Sabol, fox8.com

Shedeur Sanders spent 15-20 minutes after today’s 2nd #Browns minicamp practice working on passing drills.

His mechanics have already improved since rookie minicamp. @fox8news pic.twitter.com/NaukS1hpqB

— John Sabol (@John_Sabol) June 11, 2025​

Jori Epstein, sports.yahoo.com

Browns putting a lot on rookie QB Dillon Gabriel’s plate but he wants that starter-like treatment. Gabriel says everyone in the NFL, which would of course include himself, believe they’re starter-caliber: pic.twitter.com/Tz4GbbBs0J

— Jori Epstein (@JoriEpstein) June 10, 2025​

ESPN Cleveland, @ESPNCleveland

"I saw it the two days I was there, and what I saw was Shedeur Sanders was consistently delivering the ball and making plays," - @JRCherry3 on Browns minicamp. pic.twitter.com/Lf69RDj3vG

— ESPN Cleveland (@ESPNCleveland) June 12, 2025​

Let us know your thoughts in the comments below on any other rookie quarterbacks or if you want to see more positions, rookies from certain rounds, or even NFC South rookies.

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Make sure you follow Canal Street Chronicles on Twitter at @SaintsCSC, “Like” us on Facebook at Canal Street Chronicles, and make sure you’re subscribed to our YouTube channel. Follow my personal page @CalebYac for more!

Source: https://www.canalstreetchronicles.c...-of-the-rookie-quarterbacks-around-the-league

 

[New Orleans Saints]

Saints will report to training camp July 22nd in Metairie

Photo by Derick E. Hingle/Getty Images

Both rookies and veterans will report the same day.

Today, the NFL announced the 2025 training camp and joint practice dates and locations for all 32 teams. The New Orleans Saints rookies as well as veterans will be reporting to camp on Tuesday, July 22, 2025, at the Ochsner Sports Performance Center in Metairie, LA.

While the team will head out to practice at the University of California-Irvine for nine days (August 6-15) which surrounds their August 10th preseason opener against the Los Angeles Chargers at SoFi Stadium, there will be no joint practices for these two teams this year.

The Saints entire training camp schedule as well as which practice dates will be open to fans has not been released yet but should be in the near future.

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Source: https://www.canalstreetchronicles.c...report-to-training-camp-july-22nd-in-metairie

 

[New Orleans Saints]

Could Saints RB Alvin Kamara’s best football still be ahead?

Matthew Hinton-Imagn Images

Kamara’s poised to put the league back on notice in New Orleans’ revamped offense.

New Orleans Saints star RB Alvin Kamara appears to be flying under the radar ahead of his ninth NFL campaign, but the 29-year-old could be primed to reassert himself as one of the league’s most versatile weapons with new head coach Kellen Moore now in charge of play calling duties.

Matthew Hinton-Imagn Images

The narrative that Alvin Kamara is declining is one I still can’t fully wrap my head around. Trevor Sikkema of Pro Football Focus actually ranked Kamara 20th in his running back rankings ahead of the 2025 season. Kamara also finished the 2024 season with just an 85 overall rating on Madden NFL 25.

As the leading rusher in franchise history with 6,779 yards, Kamara came just 50 yards short of his first-ever 1,000-yard rushing season in 2024—proving he has a lot of good football left in the tank.

Stephen Lew-Imagn Images

Looking at new Saints head coach Kellen Moore’s track record, running backs clearly play a pivotal role in his offense. In Moore’s lone season as the offensive coordinator of the Philadelphia Eagles, All-Pro RB Saquon Barkley rushed for a career-high 2,005 yards, 5.8 yards per carry and 13 touchdowns in 2024 while being named the AP NFL Offensive Player of the Year.

During Moore’s time as OC of the Dallas Cowboys from 2019 to 2022, Moore helped former Pro Bowl RB Ezekiel Elliott post two 1,000-yard rushing seasons and find the end zone 40 times over that four year span.

Vincent Carchietta-Imagn Images

Over the last three seasons, Alvin Kamara leads all NFL running backs in targets (252), receptions (200), and receiving yards (1,499), per The 33rd Team. Kamara’s versatility puts him in rare company—just three running backs in NFL history have gained 5,000 or more yards both rushing and receiving: Marcus Allen, Marshall Faulk and Tiki Barber. Kamara is just 238 receiving yards shy of joining that elite group of ball carriers.

However, running backs have typically seen a drop in their receiving production under Kellen Moore’s offense. According to PFF’s Nathan Jahnke, Saquon Barkley consistently posted a target share of at least 17.7% during each of his six seasons with the New York Giants, but that dipped to 13.8% after joining Moore in Philadelphia. Similarly, Austin Ekeler averaged just 1.25 yards per route run in his lone season under Moore with the Los Angeles Chargers in 2023—the lowest mark of his career. And in Dallas, Ezekiel Elliott’s efficiency as a pass catcher also declined. His yards per route run—which had consistently been over 1.0 before Moore began calling plays—fell below that threshold during Moore’s tenure, only to rebound back to 1.0 the year after Moore left for LA.

While Kellen Moore hasn’t historically emphasized utilizing running backs in the passing game, he’s made it clear this offseason that he plans to let his players play to their strengths. That could benefit Kamara, even though the numbers from Moore’s previous offenses show a different trend in the passing game.

Moore on Kamara:

“He is one of the premiere players in this league and we want to utilize every aspect of that. His mental capacity is really high, and he understands football. It will be fun... He will be a big part of this.”​

Stephen Lew-Imagn Images

It’s also important to note that despite injuries across the offensive line last season, the Saints’ front five was still one of the best when it came to run blocking, clocking a top-10 RBK grade from PFF in 2024. With the addition of first-round NFL Draft pick Kelvin Banks Jr. and Trevor Penning’s transition inside, the OL could look even stronger in 2025.

Meanwhile, Pro Bowl center Erik McCoy—the heart and soul of the Saints’ offensive line—missed 10 games after suffering a groin injury just three plays into Week 3’s matchup against the Eagles, yet still posted a 94.6 run-blocking grade from PFF. If McCoy stays healthy, the run game should take a clear step forward.

That said, I have high hopes for Kamara in 2025 as both a rusher and receiver—now the question is, who will back him up amid a crowded RB room?

Source: https://www.canalstreetchronicles.c...rb-alvin-kamaras-best-football-still-be-ahead

 

[New Orleans Saints]

Saints sign former UFL and Falcons offensive lineman Barry Wesley

Photo by Butch Dill/UFL/Getty Images

This is the second former UFL player New Orleans has signed this week.

The New Orleans Saints have added some more depth to the offensive line by signing Birmingham Stallions tackle Barry Wesley. Wesley played college football at Colorado State and has had stints with the Massachusetts Pirates of the Indoor Football League as well as the Seattle Sea Dragons of the XFL. Wesley spent the 2023 season and 2024 preseason as a member of the Atlanta Falcons practice squad before ultimately joining the Stallions ahead of the 2025 UFL season.

Wesley has good size at 6’7” and 310 pounds and has experience playing at both guard and tackle. Wesley is the second UFL player the Saints have brought in this week, so Head Coach Kellen Moore clearly thinks there are contributors to be found in the highest level minor league of professional football. Wesley will likely be competing for a spot on the practice squad with the potential to be activated to cover for a potential injury during the season. It will be interesting to see if either of the UFL players the Saints have brought in to camp are able to earn their way on to the practice squad in New Orleans, and perhaps even on to the active roster at some point.

#UFL #NFL

Barry Wesley

• Signed w/ NOLA
• Played 619 snaps in 2025
• Played every position except C
• Top 10 in UFL in PFF Pass Grade
• Only allowed 2 sacks
• Spent 2023 w/ ATL#Saints x #GiddyUp pic.twitter.com/uDVau9PEqt

— State of the Stallions (@SOTStallions) June 18, 2025​

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Make sure you follow Canal Street Chronicles on X at @SaintsCSC, “Like” us on Facebook at Canal Street Chronicles, follow us on Instagram at @SaintsCSC, and make sure you’re subscribed to our YouTube channel. As always, you can follow me on X at @Hayden_Reel.

Source: https://www.canalstreetchronicles.c...fl-and-falcons-offensive-lineman-barry-wesley

 

[New Orleans Saints]

Saints waive RB Xazavian Valladay

Photo by Derick E. Hingle/Getty Images

Valladay becomes the first casualty in a crowded running back room.

The New Orleans Saints have waived RB Xazavian Valladay, per a report by NFLN’s Mike Garafolo.

The #Saints are waiving RB Xazavian Valladay. He made plays this spring but the backfield was crowded in New Orleans and the team needed to make room for other positions. The former undrafted free agent heads to the waiver wire. pic.twitter.com/mTkc87Jc2u

— Mike Garafolo (@MikeGarafolo) June 20, 2025​

Valladay was signed by the Houston Texans in 2023 as an undrafted free agent out of Arizona State. He also spent time with the Pittsburgh Steelers and New York Jets before being signed to the Saints practice squad last November. The 26-year-old now becomes the first casualty in a crowded running back room in New Orleans which consists of Alvin Kamara, Devin Neal, Kendre Miller, Clyde Edwards-Heleire, Cam Akers, Marcus Yerns and Velus Jones Jr.

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Source: https://www.canalstreetchronicles.c...new-orleans-saints-waive-rb-xazavian-valladay

 

[New Orleans Saints]

Saints officially sign UFL trio

Photo by Justin Ford/UFL/Getty Images

New Orleans clearly sees talent still available.

With training camp getting increasingly closer, expect the New Orleans Saints to make several roster moves. As we have already seen them make some signings and invite players to practice, but unlike the previous year, this is more about competition than injuries. This is a smart way for head coach Kellen Moore to keep the competition in practice and ever-evolving, but also see if they can hit on some available talent. The UFL is one of the places where teams are scouting for talent, including the Saints, who announced the official signings of offensive linemen Barry Wilson, tight end Seth Green, and cornerback Jayden Price.

#Saints officially announce the signings of TE Seth Green, CB Jayden Price and T Barry Wesley. They have also waived CB Travion Fluellen and RB Xavavian Valladay. pic.twitter.com/2x7yuHVssJ

— Tina Howell (@TinaHowellNOLA) June 20, 2025​

Before the moves became official, Seth Green and Barry Wesley were known signings, but Jayden Price is the new name. The former Renegades cornerback had a really good season in pass coverage, but he is also a great kick/punt returner. The cornerback competition on the Saints roster is going to be one of the main ones to watch throughout training camp, and potentially, Price can make an impression on the coaching staff. If not, maybe he can find a place on special teams.

With the signing of these three UFL players becoming official, the Saints also announced that they waived cornerback Travion Fluellen and running back Xazavian Valladay.

Source: https://www.canalstreetchronicles.com/2025/6/21/24453054/saints-officially-sign-ufl-trio

 

[New Orleans Saints]

CSC Poll Results: How many wins will the Saints get this year?

Stephen Lew-Imagn Images

How well do you think the Saints will do this year?

In this week's CSC poll question, we asked our readers their thoughts on the upcoming season and many wins will the New Orleans Saints will get this year?

WEEKLY POLL QUESTION

How many wins do you think the #Saints will have this year?

— Canal St. Chronicles (@SaintsCSC) June 17, 2025​

51% of voters said between 4 and 6 wins in 2025. Many have lowered their expectations for this season as the Saints going into this year with more uncertainty at the quarterback position in decades. However, the Saints schedule is the second weakest in the NFL, so they will have opportunities to find wins, but it will all hinge on the production and development they get out of their young quarterback room.

The Saints schedule features just two games against playoff teams from 2024 not counting their two division games against Tampa Bay, as they clinched the last place schedule via tiebreak over the Carolina Panthers, and as such have the New York Giants and Chicago Bears on their schedule rather than the Dallas Cowboys and Green Bay Packers. The Saints also face the AFC East, which could potentially be one of the weakest divisions in the AFC apart from Buffalo. This forgiving schedule could be a saving grace for the Saints as they try and navigate a rebuilding year, but even still, they may be looking at another season of double-digit losses.

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Make sure you follow Canal Street Chronicles on X at @SaintsCSC, “Like” us on Facebook at Canal Street Chronicles, follow us on Instagram at @SaintsCSC, and make sure you’re subscribed to our YouTube channel. As always, you can follow me on X at @Hayden_Reel.

Source: https://www.canalstreetchronicles.c...s-how-many-wins-will-the-saints-get-this-year

 

[New Orleans Saints]

Fleur-de-Links, June 20: Is Kamara’s best football for the Saints still ahead of him?

Photo by Derick E. Hingle/Getty Images

Here are your daily New Orleans Saints links.

Is Kamara’s best football for the Saints still ahead of him?-Canal St Chronicles​

Coming into a new scheme with a new coaching staff is always a challenge, but could it unlock another level of Alvin Kamara for the New Orleans Saints?

What we learned in minicamp-ESPN​

Let’s break down what stood out about the Black and Gold during OTAs and minicamp over the last few weeks.

Why hasn’t Shough signed a contract?-FOX 8​

Tyler Shough has yet to sign his rookie deal with the Saints. What could be the hold up?

#Saints sign former UFL and Falcons offensive lineman Barry Wesleyhttps://t.co/UnlbexSWWJ

— Canal St. Chronicles (@SaintsCSC) June 20, 2025​

Source: https://www.canalstreetchronicles.c...st-football-for-the-saints-still-ahead-of-him

 

[New Orleans Saints]

NFL Divisions ranked by Position groups - RB

Dan Powers/USA TODAY NETWORK-Wisconsin / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

Which division is the best?

In this next iteration of ranking the divisions by positions, we will be focusing on the running back position. With offensive production slowing down recently, running backs have become increasingly vital to the success of offenses around the league. So, looking at the starters for each team, here are the division rankings.

1. NFC North​

Chicago Bears, Detroit Lions, Green Bay Packers, Minnesota Vikings​

Since coming into the league, Bears running back DeAndre Swift has had an up-and-down career. At the beginning, Swift was struggling in Detroit, and it was not until going to the Eagles in 2023 that the young rusher finally found consistency. After his short stint with the Eagles, Swift signed with the Bears, became their number one option at running back, and rushed for 959 yards and 6 touchdowns in 2024. Now, with Ben Johnson as head coach, Swift could have an even better season in 2025.

The Detroit Lions have one of the best running back duos in the league, and this is a scenario where both players have to be considered as the starter. Jahmyr Gibbs uses blistering speed and agility, while David Montgomery uses strength to win in the trenches. They are the perfect complement, and the statistics show this. In 2024, Gibbs had 1,412 rushing yards and 16 touchdowns, while Montgomery had 775 rushing yards and 12 touchdowns.

Going into the 2024 season, Josh Jacobs was with a new team for the first time of his career, but that did not stop him from making a massive difference on the Packers. At times last season, it felt like Jacobs was putting the Packers’ offense on his back and single-handedly led them to wins. He wins with power, and in 2024, Jacobs had 35 broken tackles, 1329 rushing yards, and 15 touchdowns.

At 30 years old, Aaron Jones is the oldest starting running back in the NFC North, but last season, he showed no signs of slowing down. Racking up 1138 rushing yards and 5 touchdowns, Jones was by far the leading rusher on the roster. This production opened up the Vikings’ offense and allowed QB Sam Darnold the best year of his career.

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2. NFC South​

Atlanta Falcons, Carolina Panthers, New Orleans Saints, Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Last season, the Atlanta Falcons had significantly up-and-down passing games, but the main part of the offense that stayed consistent was the rushing attack. Coming off a decent rookie season, Bijan Robinson rapidly rose to become one of the best running backs in the league. Last season, the sophomore rusher had 1456 rushing yards, 431 receiving yards, and 15 touchdowns. With Michael Penix at QB in 2025, Robinson could be set for an even bigger year.

The Panthers have invested heavily in running backs over the years, but one player slowly became the number one option in Carolina: Chuba Hubbard. Last season, Hubbard finally got over 1000 yards and doubled his touchdown production from the year before. He earned a contract extension, and with Jonathon Brooks tearing his ACL, it is Hubbard’s spot to lose.

The only team in the NFC South with a real veteran running back as their starter is the New Orleans Saints and Alvin Kamara. Entering his 9th season, Kamara has been a dual threat on the ground and in the air. Since Drew Brees’ retirement, the offense has relied on what Alvin Kamara brings to the offense. With an offensive-minded head coach and an improved offensive line, Kamara could have one of the best years of his career.

Returning to the young running backs, Bucky Irving was an essential addition to the Buccaneers' offense. Last season with Liam Coen as offensive coordinator, Irving had an amazing year, racking up 1,122 rushing yards and 8 touchdowns. The real test will be if Irving can continue this great offense without Coen, now the Jaguars' head coach.

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3. NFC West​

Arizona Cardinals, Los Angeles Rams, San Francisco 49ers, Seattle Seahawks​

Starting with the Cardinals, their starting running back James Connor has been very consistent for many seasons. Going into the 2023 season, Connor consistently gained around 700 yards a season, but for the past two years, he increased this total to around 1000 each year. The Cardinals offensive line has never been great, but James Connor always finds space and picks up important yards. He may not be a top running back, but he is still important for this offense.

In the 2022 NFL Draft, the Rams drafted Kyren Williams in 5th round, and his rookie year was nothing to write home about. Williams did not have much production and only had 139 yards on 35 attempts, but in his sophomore year, this is where the Rams knew they hit a home run. In 2023, Williams had 1144 rushing yards and 12 touchdowns in only 12 games. Williams needed to show he can stay healthy and build upon his 2023 success, and in 2024, he did just that.

Even with the talent throughout this division, Christian McCaffrey is still by far the best running back... when healthy. McCaffrey has dealt with injuries his whole career, and with the star running back only getting older, this issue is going to become increasingly worrisome. Still, when healthy, McCaffrey is arguably the best running back in the league.

The only team in this division that has more of a questionable running back room is the Seattle Seahawks. Kenneth Walker has been the number one option and can take over games, but last season, with a mixture of injuries and lower rush per attempt averages, Walker had a down year.

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4. AFC South​

Houston Texans, Indianapolis Colts, Jacksonville Jaguars, Tennessee Titans

One of the most consistent running backs in the league for years has been Joe Mixon. Mixon worked every season with the Bengals to carry the rushing workload and keep the pressure off the offensive line. With the Texans last season, Mixon had to do the same, and with the offensive line only getting worse, he may have to work even harder to gain yards in 2025.

Since his amazing 2021 season, Jonathan Taylor has dealt with injuries and has been unable to achieve that fantastic season again. In 2024, Taylor started to get back on the right track and had his best season since 2021, finishing with 1,431 rushing yards and 11 touchdowns. The Colts offensive line took a bit of a hit this offseason, but they should still be a strength of the team. This and Taylor’s health could create a monster season in 2025.

The Jacksonville Jaguars are another team in a very interesting position with their running back room. Travis Etienne has never achieved the stardom level that the Jaguars hoped for, and the hope is that he can get that with Liam Coen in charge. The question is going to be all about ball security and health.

Another rusher who has found consistency in the league is Titans starter Tony Pollard. For the past 3 seasons, Pollard has broken the 1000-yard mark, and that was even behind a horrible offensive line last season. Now, with #1 pick Cam Ward under center and an upgraded offensive line, Pollard could have the best season of his career.

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5. NFC East​

Dallas Cowboys, New York Giants, Philadelphia Eagles, Washington Commanders

The Cowboys running back room was a massive focus for upgrades in the offseason, but Dallas believed they did not need to make a massive addition even with this need. In the end, they have decided to bring in Javonte Williams, who has struggled to make his mark in the league.

Since Saquan Barkley left last offseason, the Giants have been running back purgatory. As of now, the starting running back is Tyrone Tracy Jr., who had a really good start to his career, finishing with 839 rushing yards. The main question will now be whether Tracy can improve from last season, or if it was because he was the only option.

Speaking of Saquan Barkley, it is time to talk about last season's best running back. Barkley is coming off a year where he amassed over 2000 yards rushing, 13 touchdowns, won offensive player of the year, and led the Eagles to a Super Bowl win. If the NFC North did not have Barkley, this division would be ranked much lower.

The last team in the NFC North is the Washington Commanders, and they also have an interesting backfield. Brian Robinson has been unable to play a full season and has not gotten over 1,000 yards in his career. The hope is that with better health, Robinson can finally secure that starting spot, but that is nowhere near a guarantee.

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6. NFC East​

Buffalo Bills, Miami Dolphins, New England Patriots, New York Jets

Last season, James Cook's rushing numbers may not have jumped off the page, but the touchdowns are where he stood out. In 2024, Cook had 18 total touchdowns, making the Bills' offense even more of a threat. Cook’s health is also something we have not seen from the running back position, with him being healthy for almost every season.

Being from the Shanahan scheme, Mike McDaniels and the Miami Dolphins utilize the running back position throughout their scheme. In his rookie season, Davon Achane burst onto the scene as a big-play threat who could change the outlook of a game. He only played 11 games and started 4 in his rookie season, but in 2024, he became the #1 option at running back. His rushing numbers saw a slight increase in yards, but in the passing game, Achane was utilized heavily and had around 500 receiving yards.

With a new head coach in charge, the Patriots could see changes in their running back room. Last season, Rhamondre Stevenson was the top option and had 801 rushing yards. This was behind a bad offensive line, so Stevenson could have a better year in 2025, but with rookie Treyvon Henderson competing for that spot, we could see a new starting option for the Patriots next season.

Last, but not least, we have the Jets in this division. Breece Hall has been the top option for the past two seasons. Since his injury in 2022, Hall has put up decent numbers for the Jets, but has been unable to reach the heights many believed he could get to. After a down season in 2024, there is hope that a new coaching staff can get the most out of Hall before it’s too late.

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7. AFC North​

Baltimore Ravens, Cincinnati Bengals, Cleveland Browns, Pittsburgh Steelers

Similar to the NFC North, the AFC North has a bunch of running back questions, except for one team. The Baltimore Ravens have one of the best rushing attacks in the NFL, with QB Lamar Jackson and RB Derrick Henry terrorizing defenses. We will not be talking about Jackson here, but focusing on just Henry, he was the second-best running back in the NFL last season. He had nearly 2000 rushing yards and got in the endzone 16 times.

Since Joe Mixon left the Bengals last offseason, Cincinnati has been looking for its long-term answer at running back. As of now, their top options at running back are Chase Brown, who had a decent 2nd season, and Zach Moss, who has actually found some success since leaving the Bills. Brown is going to be the number one option next season, and the hope is that he can further improve in this offense.

Next, we have the Browns, who might have the worst running back group in the NFL. Jerome Ford is the starter, but rookie Quinshon Judkins should fight for that spot early.

The Steelers have done a decent job keeping their running back room pretty consistent, but due to the departure of Najee Harris, 2025 might be the first season in a long time where the Steelers could really struggle running the ball. Maybe Jaylen Warren can slot right into that starting spot and do well, but it is too much of a question mark to guarantee that happening.

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8. AFC West​

Denver Broncos, Kansas City Chiefs, Las Vegas Raiders, Los Angeles Chargers

The Broncos went into the offseason with a big need at running back, and were able to find a decent option. Recently, Denver signed free agent JK Dobbins to a deal, and the hope is he can continue improving upon a career year with the Chargers. Still, Dobbins is not the best player to rely upon, and Denver's running game could get much worse if an injury occurs.

Next, with the Chiefs, another team that has dealt with injuries at running back. Isiah Pachecoi will be the top option going into 2025, but after returning from his injury last season, the young player did not look the same. The big question is whether Pacheco can have a bounce-back season.

Besides the issues at running back for the previous two teams, the main reason why the AFC West is ranked last is because of the rookies. Starting with the Raiders, their #1 option next season will be Ashton Jeanty. Although I believe he can be amazing in the NFL, going into the season with a rookie as the primary option creates a scenario filled with the unknown.

The other team that should be going into the 2025 season with a starting rookie running back is the Chargers. Omarion Hampton was the second-best running back in the 2025 NFL Draft, and landing with the Chargers was a fantastic scenario for the rookie. Just like with Jeanty and the Raiders, there are too many unknowns with starting a rookie at running back, but this scenario could also propel this division to a higher ranking by the end of the season.

Source: https://www.canalstreetchronicles.com/2025/6/23/24452092/nfl-divisions-ranked-by-position-groups-rb