New Orleans Saints 2023 NFL Season Preview: Ambition and Challenge
DraftKings Sportsbook suggests the New Orleans Saints are poised to claim the NFC South division title, due to the strategic choices they’ve made to surpass their division rivals. While optimism exists within their ranks as they head into the 2023 NFL season, an undercurrent of uncertainty remains. Therefore, an in-depth analysis should shed light on roster modifications, potential playoff trajectory, and any advantages gained from competing in less demanding divisions.
Key Roster Transitions
Over the last two seasons, the Saints quarterback position has experienced considerable turmoil. Both Taysom Hill and Jameis Winston had their opportunities to prove themselves worthy franchise quarterbacks; however, recently the Saints decided to switch tactics in an effort to fortify this key position and recruit Derek Carr as a proven veteran within the league.
Carr may not be the long-term solution that the Saints require, but his leadership skills and field expertise should provide immediate results that enhance offensive performance for his team. His role will play a key role in their pursuit of a triumphant divisional campaign.
Offensive Skill Position Modifications
The New Orleans Saints have recently made significant adjustments to their offensive skill positions, both quarterback and offensive skill players. Notably, they have shown trust in 2022 rookie receivers Chris Olave and Rashid Shaheed after notable players from last season left. This represents confidence that these receivers can contribute substantially during this coming season.
Alvin Kamara remains uncertain for the Saints following a potential suspension, leading to questions over his role and availability within the team. If this occurs, they will rely on Kendre Miller and free-agent signing Jamaal Williams more heavily as running game success can help reduce Carr’s workload and facilitate his passing attack.
Alterations within the Defensive Front
New Orleans Saints front seven defensive unit has undergone a significant transformation, with Kaden Ellis and P.J. Williams departing and Marcus Davenport’s retirement further dismantling their defensive line. To compensate for these losses, New Orleans must utilize both experienced veterans and promising rookies in its arsenal to counterbalance them.
Their defensive prowess will depend on the performances of draft picks Bryan Bresee and Isaiah Foskey, whom the Saints rely on heavily to improve their pass rush and destabilize rival offenses. Furthermore, Marcus Lattimore should return injury-free from suspension, further strengthening their secondary. However, the effects of coordinator changes and personnel turnover on defensive performance remain unknown.
Defensive Hurdles and Strategies
Derek Carr gives the Saints an exceptional offensive weapon and could provide them with a significant offensive boost. Michael Thomas can combine with Chris Olave to pressure rival defenses and create favorable opportunities. Carr’s precise distribution could further capitalize on these assets to propel their offense.
Additionally, the Saints’ running game could prove essential in keeping defenses guessing; Alvin Kamara (if available), Jamaal Williams and rookie Kendre Miller could provide necessary balance against opponents’ defenses with varied playmakers that keep opponents guessing. A solid offensive line should provide adequate protection for Carr.
On defense, the Saints face significant hurdles after losing key contributors in pass rushing – particularly Marcus Davenport who left to join the 49ers, leaving an immense hole in their ability to pressure opposing quarterbacks. Additionally, their second-best pass-rusher Onyemata joined Atlanta further complicating matters.
To compensate, the Saints will rely on rookies Bryan Bresee and Isaiah Foskey as they must quickly adapt to NFL competition. Furthermore, Marcus Lattimore must remain fit so he can help secure their secondary against Carr and create turnovers to give their offense an advantageous field position.
Favorable Scheduling
Going into 2023, the Saints will have an advantage due to the makeup of their divisional rivals. The NFC South is widely seen as being the weakest division, making the Saints the sole legitimate playoff contender amongst this group of teams. Given the Super Bowl odds for these opponents, that means six winnable games against these rivals for New Orleans.
Saints fans should expect them to win against non-division opponents due to their relatively weak schedule, including facing AFC South rivals that pose less of a challenge than NFC South opponents. Jacksonville Jaguars offer less favorable odds in Super Bowl betting, suggesting more potential wins for New Orleans Saints fans.
A Glimpse into the Season
New Orleans Saints begin the 2023 NFL season with high expectations and significant roster alterations. Boasting an offensive talent roster featuring Michael Thomas, Chris Olave and possibly Alvin Kamara as potential stars on offense, New Orleans boasts all of the components necessary for creating an aggressive offense that could pose a significant threat.
However, uncertainties persist regarding the defensive side, with key players such as Bryan Bresee and Isaiah Fosu now gone from that side of the ball. Rookies Bryan Bresee and Isaiah Fosu could emerge as potential replacements.
Key personnel will be expected to step forward quickly and begin contributing immediately toward filling any voids that exist in filling these vacancies.
Even with their obstacles, the Saints still possess an edge in the NFC South division as the sole strong contender. A favorable schedule against non-division opponents provides ample chances to secure key wins and pursue a playoff berth.
As 2023 gets underway, Saints fans eagerly anticipate the outcome of these major roster adjustments. If New Orleans can strike a balance between offensive firepower and defensive resilience, their chances for division title contention and deep playoff runs should improve significantly – though success depends on both veteran players as well as rookie rookies performing to reach their ultimate goal of securing New Orleans its inaugural 2023 Super Bowl championship will depend on each of them individually.
