New Orleans Saints Face Pivotal Season in the NFL

The New Orleans Saints under intense pressure to raise their levels during the 2024 NFL season.

The Saints have had a disappointing couple of years and will be eager to turn things around. Read on as we take an in-depth look at what to expect from them this year.

A Summer of Change in New Orleans

The Saints have cut Michael Thomas, leaving a gaping hole in the squad. The 31-year-old was one of the top wide receivers in the league, but injuries have derailed his career. 

Jameis Winston played back-up to quarterback Derek Carr last season but has left for the Cleveland Browns. NathanPeterman has taken his place.

Marcus Mayer has joined the Miami Dolphins, while defensive lineman Malcolm Roach, linebacker Zack Baun and cornerbacks Lonnie Johnson and Isaac Yiadom have also exited.

Other notable departures include wide receiver Keith Kirkwood, tight end Jimmy Graham, offensive tackles Cameron Erving and Andrus Peat, and guard Max Garcia.

The Saints have retained their core offensive group. Carr is back for another season as the first-choice quarterback, with standout receiver Chris Olave as his top target.

Olave is joined by Rashid Shaheed and AT Perry. Both men showed flashes of brilliance last season but will be looking for more prominent roles this term.

The Saints’ backfield remains strong with Alvin Kamara back as the workhorse, while Kendre Miller is looking to build on apromising rookie year.

The Saints have added former Washington Commanders and San Francisco 49ers star Chase Young. His arrival will bolster a defensive line ranked a lowly 28th in the league for pass rushes.

Receivers Equanimeous St Brown and Cedrick Wilson have also joined the squad, adding depth and experience. Willie Gray Jr and Khaleke Hudson will boost the linebacker corps.

Irish Kicker Could be a Game-Changer

Will Harris and Jonathan Abrams strengthen the secondary, while Irish kicker Charlie Smyth has also joined the roster.

Smyth, who came through the International Player Pathway (IPP) programme, has already started delivering the goods after earning his side victory in their recent pre-season outing.

The former Gaelic Athletic Association (GAA) goalkeeper will have eyes on him from back home, with Irish sports fans and bettors buzzing to see one of their own in the NFL.

The NFL has been growing in popularity in Ireland. This growth has naturally translated to a surge in NFL betting in Ireland.

If Smyth can beat out Blake Groupe to make the active roster, Irish betting sites will be inundated with bets on his kicking yards. Irish punters may even back the Saints to clinch the Super Bowl.

The are rated as 81.00 shots to get the job done and that could look good value if some of their NFL Draft picks hit the ground running.

They secured offensive tackle Taliese Fuaga, who was picked 14th and is expected to anchor the offensive line. Cornerback and playmaker Kool-Aid McKinstry also came in to help shore up the defensive backfield.

They also drafted quarterback Spencer Rattler, wide receiver Bub Means, linebacker Jaylan Ford and defensive lineman Khristian Boyd. They will be expected to contribute to the team’s future success.

Dennis Allen is Under Pressure

Despite recording a career-best 9-8 record last year, head coach Dennis Allen will head into the new season under pressure.

Slow starts and inconsistent performances against the big hitters have marred his coaching tenure. He is not a fan favourite while his players ranked him poorly in an anonymous NFLPA survey.

Allen must be desperate to change the narrative. With fans and analysts carrying high hopes for the team, he needs to show they can compete with the big boys and secure a play-off spot.

The Saints must prove they can win against strong opponents and avoid merely feasting on weaker teams. They should be eyeing the NFC South title, but questions remain about their ability to clinch the crown.

The stakes are high for Allen, who could be out of a job if he does not get the team firing early. The Saints’ season will be defined by their ability to overcome shortcomings, secure a play-off berth and deliver good performances against the top contenders.