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There were plenty of them, but here's the biggest standouts from Senior Bowl practices this week.

The Senior Bowl kicks off at 1:30 p.m. CT on Saturday. After another good week of practice at the yearly event, draft hopefuls look to put an exclamation point on their performances and help boost their stock going into the Scouting Combine and NFL Draft. Here's a few players that stood out the most in Mobile.

Tyjae Spears, Tulane​

Feb 1, 2023; Mobile, AL, USA; American running back Tyjae Spears of Tulane (22) practices during the second day of Senior Bowl week at Hancock Whitney Stadium in Mobile. Mandatory Credit: Vasha Hunt-USA TODAY Sports


He was simply one of the most impressive players this week. He put on a great show for everyone in attendance, and was named the practice player of the week in a vote by NFL executives and scouts. If you've followed Tulane at all this year, then this honestly comes at no shock. There's a good bit of Alvin Kamara resemblance there.

Jayden Reed, Michigan State​

Jan 31, 2023; Mobile, AL, USA; National wide receiver Jayden Reed of Michigan State (1) makes a catch in the end zone ahead of National defensive back Ronnie Hickman of Ohio State (14) during the first day of Senior Bowl week at Hancock Whitney Stadium in Mobile. Mandatory Credit: Vasha Hunt-USA TODAY Sports


Reed had a strong week of practice, and might have drove up his draft stock after putting on a performance. The burst, separation ability, and route-running were some of the best things to stand out from the Michigan State wide receiver. He seems like a strong lock to be a Day 2 pick after seemingly being unguardable.

Will McDonald IV, Iowa State​

His work in one-on-one reps was hard not to notice. The edge rusher was dominant all week, showing some real athleticism and skills off in the process. He also dropped in coverage and made a nice play breaking up a pass intended for Alabama's Cameron Latu. Iowa State's 3-3-5 defense certainly make it interesting to see where McDonald will end up, but the traits are there.

Quick Hits​

QB A MIXED BAG: Similar to last year, the quarterbacks struggled early on. However, of the group, Fresno State's Jake Haener might have been the better one of any of them. It's a shame we didn't get to see Hendon Hooker practice, but he was around all week. Of the quarterbacks that played, none of them scream to be the next Saints starter.

MORE OFFENSIVE STUDS: Illinois' Chase Brown and Oklahoma's Eric Gray were two other running backs that stood out, as well as Houston's Nathaniel 'Tank' Dell. Clemson tight end Davis Allen put on a good display of blocking in addition to making some plays.

LOCAL FLAVOR: Tulane's Dorian Williams is going to have a place somewhere in the league. Like Tyjae Spears, Williams represented the Green Wave well. There's tons of potential there for the linebacker, but there's just something to his game that makes me feel that it'll translate well in the NFL. LSU's Jay Ward had some pretty good moments this week, showing off some nice versatility.

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Read More Saints News​

After a week in Mobile at the Senior Bowl, what are some things we learned about the Saints?

The Senior Bowl is today. Players that we had on the

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It’s a situation the NFL’s best coaches should be watching. We don’t need to...

Despite a 10-game loss of star CB Marshon Lattimore, New Orleans continued to provide outstanding coverage thanks to a surprising 2022 second-round draft choice. When fully intact, the New Orleans cornerback unit was borderline elite.

After struggling against the pass to start out the 2021 season, the New Orleans Saints closed out the year strong. They ranked 14th in pass defense for the year, but allowed an average of less than 171 yards through the air over their last nine games.

Yes, incredible pressure up front and effective safety play were big factors. However, the Saints also benefited from outstanding cornerback play. Marshon Lattimore continued to be one of the league's best shutdown corners. Rookie Paulson Adebo, a third-round choice, played so well that he limited the snaps of Bradley Roby, a veteran trade acquisition.

Entering the 2022 campaign, the New Orleans cornerbacks were expected to be perhaps the strongest unit on the team. Would that turn out to be the case after an injury to one of the best players on the Saints roster?

Saints 2022 CB Grades​

New Orleans Saints cornerback Marshon Lattimore (23) returns an interception for a touchdown against the Philadelphia Eagles. Mandatory Credit: Eric Hartline-USA TODAY Sports

Marshon Lattimore is one of the keys to the New Orleans defense. His ability to nullify an opponent’s best receiver one-on-one allows the team to be more aggressive and creative with their scheme.

The 26-year-old Lattimore got off to an uneven start in 2022. He was targeted just 11 times in four of the first five weeks, giving up only five catches for 31 yards. However, he was ejected in the fourth quarter of a Week Two loss to Tampa Bay and allowed 7 key catches for 94 yards in a Week Four loss to Minnesota. Then, he suffered rib and severe abdominal injuries in Week 5 against Seattle.

The injuries kept Lattimore out of action for 10 games. He missed just eight contests over the first five years of his career. Lattimore returned with a vengeance for the last two games. He intercepted a pass and returned it for the game-clinching touchdown in a Week 17 road win over the eventual NFC Champion Philadelphia Eagles. For the year, Lattimore had one interception, broke up four passes, and allowed just 60% completion percentage when targeted in seven games.

The Saints pass defense faltered little with their star corner sidelined. Instead, a surprising contributor emerged from their rookie draft class.


Arizona Cardinals wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins (10) battles for position with New Orleans Saints cornerback Alontae Taylor (27). Mandatory Credit: Rob Schumacher-Arizona Republic

Eyebrows were raised when the Saints used a second-round pick, the 49th overall selection, on Tennessee defensive back Alontae Taylor. Many expected the physical Taylor to be converted to safety. That was not to be the case, as injuries pressed him into heavy duty.

A preseason injury and talent in front of him prevented the 24-year-old from seeing much time over the first half of the year. He wouldn't get his first significant action until Week 7--against Arizona Cardinals All-Pro WR DeAndre Hopkins. For the rest of the year, Taylor would fortify the team’s defensive backfield.

Despite getting targeted frequently as a rookie, Taylor allowed just 48.5% completion percentage and broke up a team-high 11 passes in only 10 games. His athleticism and man coverage skills allowed New Orleans to continue being aggressive with their schemes.

Taylor missed a few chances at interceptions and drew a few flags, areas he must improve in 2023. However, his ability to lock onto the opposition's top receiver in Lattimore's absence kept the New Orleans defense at a high level.


New Orleans Saints cornerback Paulson Adebo (29) deflects a pass intended for San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk (11). Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Sports

Second-year CB Paulson Adebo had a rocky season when compared to his rookie campaign. He missed three games early in the year with an ankle injury suffered late in preseason, something he dealt with all year.

Adebo struggled most of the season but finished the year with the same promise he showed as a rookie.

He broke up 7 throws, but allowed nearly 66% completion rate when targeted and surrendered six touchdowns in 11 games.

The 23-year-old Adebo should be an important part of the defense again next season. He's a physical player with good ball skills and natural coverage ability who should bounce back from a second year slump.


New Orleans Saints cornerback Bradley Roby (21) makes a play against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Mandatory Credit: Nathan Ray Seebeck-USA TODAY

Nine-year veteran Bradley Roby provided strong depth and was a quality spot-starter for the Saints. He gave up just 54% completion rate and one score when targeted.

The 30-year-old Roby broke up five passes and recovered two fumbles during the year. His veteran presence, along with ability to play outside and in the slot, was a valuable asset for the defense.

Roby, like Lattimore and Adebo, was affected by injury. He left early in a Week 7 loss at Arizona with a leg injury that sidelined him for four games.

The Saints brought in accomplished 12-year veteran CB Chris Harris Jr. a little before mid-season as an injury replacement. Down Lattimore, Adebo, and Roby for a stretch, Harris had to be pressed into heavy duty.

It was clear that the 33-year-old Harris' best days were behind him. Heavily targeted when on the field, he broke up three passes, forced a fumble, and recorded a sack. He also gave up nearly 77% completion percentage when targeted.


New Orleans Saints cornerback Alontae Taylor (27) breaks up a pass intended for Baltimore Ravens wide receiver Demarcus Robinson (10). Mandatory Credit: Stephen Lew-USA TODAY Sports

Alontae Taylor was the saving grace for the secondary with Lattimore on the sideline and Adebo slumping. With all three together late in the season, along with Roby, New Orleans had arguably the league's best set of corners.

The Saints allowed less than 185 yards per game through the air, ranking second in the NFL. They locked down opposing receivers and held 10 teams under 200 net yards passing, including 8 of 10 opponents once Taylor was in full-time duty.

Lattimore, Taylor, and Adebo are all under the age of 28, with Taylor and Adebo on rookie contracts. Either Taylor or Adebo must contribute more in the slot for the defense in 2023, but the future is bright for the Saints at one of the NFL's most difficult positions.

Saints CB Grade = B​

Drew Brees’ name came up twice at the Senior Bowl, the first time referencing his long tenure with the New Orleans Saints, the next referencing how hard it has been to find his replacement since he left.

The Saints are in the midst of a spot teams often find themselves in when a Hall of Fame quarterback retires. They are approaching their third season of the post-Brees era in New Orleans, and they are still searching for his successor.

The Jameis Winston era never took off, with injuries derailing a promising start. Last year, the show belonged mostly to Andy Dalton, who showed glimpses...

Sean Payton finally became the head coach of the Broncos on Friday evening, and he said after taking the job that working out the compensation his new team would send his old team was a lengthy process.

The Broncos sent the 2023 first-round pick (No. 29 overall) that they had previously acquired from the Bradley Chubb trade to the Saints, along with a 2024 second-round pick, in exchange for the Saints’ 2024 third-round pick and the rights to Payton, who resigned a year ago while still under contract to the Saints. Payton said the two teams’ general managers worked hard on hammering out...

The New Orleans Saints have reportedly hired Todd Grantham as a defensive assistant.

Grantham has experience as both a defensive coordinator and defensive line coach. Both jobs have opened in New Orleans this offseason.

Read more here.

Sean Payton signed his contract with the Broncos on Friday. Not long after reports of his signing came the Broncos’ announcement.

It’s official: Payton is the new head coach of the Broncos.

Broncos owner and CEO Greg Penner released a statement: “Sean Payton is an outstanding leader and Super Bowl champion with a brilliant offensive mind. He shares our commitment to winning championships for Broncos Country and we’re excited to welcome him as our new head coach.

“Sean knows how to build a championship culture with high expectations. He coaches with intensity and attention-to-detail...

Will New Orleans solve their quarterback issue by rolling the dice and zeroing in on Las Vegas QB Derek Carr?

The New Orleans Saints have a glaring need at quarterback. It's their biggest need this offseason and has been an issue since legendary QB Drew Brees retired after the 2020 season.

Twelve-year veteran Andy Dalton wasn't the answer. The 35-year-old Dalton completed a career-high 66.7% of his throws for New Orleans, but averaged just 205 yards and went 6-8 as a starter. He's a free agent that could be re-signed as a backup. However, the Saints were extremely limited offensively with him behind center.

Dalton replaced an injured Jameis Winston in Week 4. Winston isn't the answer either, as was apparent by coach Dennis Allen's refusal to put him back in the lineup once medically cleared from back and foot injuries. After a promising 5-2 start to 2021 before suffering a season-ending knee injury, Winston had four touchdowns, five interceptions, and was sacked 11 times in three games. He's under contract for 2023, but the team is expected to release him this offseason.

The Saints could draft a quarterback. They obtained the Number 29 overall pick in the recent trade of Sean Payton, which could set them up to draft Tennessee QB Hendon Hooker. They now might have enough ammunition to trade up in the first to perhaps position themselves to draft C.J. Stroud of Ohio State, Alabama's Bryce Young, or Kentucky's Will Levis with a top pick.

Free agency could provide an answer. Forget Lamar Jackson, Saints fans. He'll never be allowed to leave Baltimore, even if the Ravens have to franchise tag him. Geno Smith (Seahawks) or Daniel Jones (Giants) could be highly sought after unless re-signed to lucrative deals before hitting the market. San Francisco's Jimmy Garoppolo is a proven winner who is sure to attract attention. Baker Mayfield (Rams) or Sam Darnold (Panthers) could be potential bridge starters while the Saints groom a rookie signal caller.

Another answer could currently be sitting in Las Vegas, NV.

Derek Carr, QB (Raiders)​

Oct 30, 2022; Raiders quarterback Derek Carr (4) passes downfield against the New Orleans Saints. Mandatory Credit: Stephen Lew-USA TODAY Sports

Just one year removed from guiding the Raiders to an unlikely playoff berth, Carr was benched by Vegas coach Josh McDaniels for the final two games of 2022. In 15 games, Carr completed 60.8% of his throws for 3,522 yards with 24 touchdowns, 14 interceptions, and went 6-9 as a starter.

Carr was second-round pick by the Raiders in the 2014 NFL Draft out of Fresno State. He's gone 63-79 as a starter with the usually talent-deficient Raiders, leading them to the playoffs twice and missing just two games because of injury.

In nine seasons with the Raiders, Carr has a 64.6% completion percentage for 35,222 yards with 217 touchdowns and 99 interceptions. He threw for over 4,000 yards in four consecutive seasons from 2018 to 2021. He has 34 career 300-yard outings, including two this past season.

Carr turns 32 next month. He's thrown a career-high 14 interceptions in each of the last two years, but is a gutty gunslinger that can make all the throws. At 6'3" and 210-Lbs., Carr hangs tough against heavy pressure in the pocket but also has underrated mobility to make plays on the move. He's also had five different head coaches and five different offensive coordinators with the Raiders, yet has shown the football IQ to quickly digest an offensive system.

Carr's Status​

Sep 21, 2020; Raiders quarterback Derek Carr (4) scrambles from New Orleans Saints defensive tackle David Onyemata (93). Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY

Derek Carr is under contract through Las Vegas for the next three seasons. However, the Raiders have also made it clear in both actions and statements that he will not be part of their team in 2023.

If Carr is still with the Raiders on February 15, his 2023 base salary of $32.9 million will become fully guaranteed. He'll count as a salary cap hit of nearly $35 million against the Las Vegas salary cap this season.

It's possible that the Raiders will release Carr if they cannot trade him before February 15. They are more likely to try and trade the quarterback. Unless Carr is willing to push back the February 15 salary deadline, then a decision must be reached on him in the next two weeks.

Understandably, there could be several teams interested in Carr, a three-time Pro Bowler. One of the teams linked to him, according to several reports, could be the New Orleans Saints.

Why the Saints could be interested in Derek Carr​

Aug 8, 2014; Oakland Raiders quarterback Derek Carr (4) is watched by head coach Dennis Allen in pregame drills. Mandatory Credit: Brace Hemmelgarn-USA TODAY Sports

Carr was the first player drafted by the Oakland Raiders in 2014 at the 36th overall selection. The head coach of the Raiders at the time? Current Saints head coach Dennis Allen.

It would obviously be more beneficial for New Orleans if Carr was released. In that instance, they could possibly negotiate a new contract that might be a little easier on their current salary cap situation.

The Saints might not have a choice whether to trade for him if the interest in Carr is high. Otherwise, another team could swoop in and he'd never see the free agent market. New Orleans has the draft capital to make it happen, even though the asking price would likely involve a Day 2 pick. However, the Saints need as many draft picks as possible to fill numerous roster holes this offseason.

New Orleans could make the finances work. It would take some creative financial juggling of current contracts, but the Saints are among the league's best at doing just that. Trading for Carr, at his current contract, would indicate that he's the franchise's answer at quarterback for the immediate future.

Could Derek Carr be the next quarterback for the New Orleans Saints? We might find out the answer to that question in a matter of just two weeks.

With several positions open on the defensive coaching staff, the New Orleans Saints have made their first hire. Per ESPN’s Chris Low, the Saints have hired former Florida Gators defensive coordinator Todd Grantham to be a defensive assistant. What position exactly he will hold has not yet been released.

The Saints currently have openings at defensive coordinator, defensive line coach and secondary coach. While Grantham has experience as a coordinator, it seems unlikely that the term “assistant” would refer to that position in particular. It sounds likely instead that he ends up working...

Eight players with local ties participated in Senior Bowl practices this week, and a number of them turned heads with their performances in practice.

Among the notable performers this week were Tulane products Tyjae Spears and Dorian Williams, Nebraska receiver Trey Palmer (Kentwood) and Florida offensive lineman O’Cyrus Torrence (St. Helena).

We caught up with a few of those with Louisiana ties to ask what they were hoping to show to talent evaluators at the Senior Bowl. Their last chance to make a good impression this week will come in Saturday’s game, which will air live on NFL...

This time last year, the New Orleans Saints were splitting their duties at the Senior Bowl, spending some of their time evaluating the prospects and the rest focusing on finding a replacement for recently retired coach Sean Payton.

It was different this time around. Though New Orleans does have some turnover on its staff, losing both of the coaches who shared defensive coordinator duties last year in the span of a couple days, the focus this time is strictly on the challenges of rebuilding a roster that won just seven games in Dennis Allen’s first season as head coach.

That challenge got...

New Orleans brings a decorated college coach back to the NFL as a defensive assistant.

The New Orleans Saints have made one hire to fill one of their several defensive coaching staff openings. ESPN reports that the Saints have hired Todd Grantham as a defensive assistant.

The exact position Grantham was hired for has not yet been announced. However, he does have extensive experience as both a defensive coordinator and defensive line coach.

New Orleans lost both of their co-defensive coordinators from last season. Ryan Nielsen, also the defensive line coach since 2017, departed for the defensive coordinator job with the Atlanta Falcons. Kris Richard, also the defensive backs coach last season, will not be back with the team next season.

Grantham, 56, was a defensive analyst with Alabama last season. He interviewed for the defensive coordinator job for the Crimson Tide, but instead elected to return to the NFL. His most recent coaching job was as the defensive coordinator for the Florida Gators from 2018 to 2021.


Sep 18, 2021; Florida Gators defensive coordinator Todd Grantham against Alabama. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports

Grantham has held NFL positions as the defensive coordinator for the Cleveland Browns (2005-2007) and defensive line coach for the Cowboys (2008-2009), Texans (2002-2004), and Colts (1999-2001). He's also been a collegiate defensive assistant at Virginia Tech, Michigan State, Georgia, Louisville, and Mississippi State.

The Saints had a 7-10 record under first-year head coach Dennis Allen in 2022. Allen had previously been the team’s defensive coordinator since 2015. New Orleans ranked fifth in total defense last year, including 2nd against the pass and 24th against the run.

It took a little while longer than expected, but the New Orleans Saints have finally gotten involved with this year’s hiring cycle and begun making changes to their coaching staff. Dennis Allen’s crew needs all the help they can get after stumbling into a 7-10 finish last season, and the Saints are hard at work meeting with candidates to fill vacancies on his staff.

Check this space often for updates and instant analysis on each reported coaching change, hiring announcement, and scheduled interview. We’ll be keeping up to date on everything coming out of New Orleans as Allen looks to...

Will Levis is undoubtedly one of the most polarizing figures in the 2023 NFL draft. He’s been compared to the likes of Josh Allen, Justin Herbert, and Matt Stafford. At 6’3” and 232 lbs, he has the perfect quarterback build.

He’s also spent two years in a pro-style offense at the University of Kentucky. The former Wildcat has shown he has some of the best arm talent in this year’s class. While Levis has many positives, I believe the New Orleans Saints should avoid him at all costs.

Levis is the definition of having upside traits but being far from a finished product. While his arm talent...