Grading and Evaluation of New Orleans Saints 2023 Draft Class Rookies

The New Orleans Saints are evaluating the performance of their 2023 NFL draft class as they gear up to rely on their young players in light of aging roster parts. DL Bryan Bresee impressed with a franchise rookie sacks record, while DE Isaiah Foskey struggled to make an impact. RB Kendre Miller showed promise but was plagued by injuries, and OL Nick Saldiveri disappointed. QB Jake Haener had a shaky preseason, and DB Jordan Howden emerged as a standout rookie. WR A.T. Perry displayed potential, while K Blake Grupe and P Lou Hedley’s performances were underwhelming.

By the Numbers

• Bryan Bresee holds the franchise rookie sacks record with 4.5.
• Isaiah Foskey finished with nine tackles and one pass broken up.
• Kendre Miller missed more than half the season due to injuries.
• Nick Saldiveri’s performance was disappointing in comparison to other players drafted around him.
• Jake Haener had a shaky preseason and a PED suspension.
• Jordan Howden recorded 43 tackles, a sack, a forced fumble, and five passes defended.
• A.T. Perry finished with 12 catches for 246 yards and four touchdowns.
• Blake Grupe finished 27th in the league in field goal percentage.
• Lou Hedley ranked 30th in net average punt distance and 37th in average punt length.

State of Play

• Bryan Bresee had a strong rookie season, setting a franchise record.
• Isaiah Foskey struggled to make an impact and carve a role for himself.
• Kendre Miller showed flashes amid injury troubles.
• Nick Saldiveri’s performance was underwhelming, with other draftees around him excelling.
• Jake Haener’s preseason and PED suspension raised concerns about the pick.
• Jordan Howden emerged as a standout rookie, demonstrating potential as a starter.
• A.T. Perry displayed flashes of potential as a big play threat.
• Both the kicker, Blake Grupe, and punter, Lou Hedley, underperformed.

Bottom Line

The New Orleans Saints’ 2023 draft class showcased a mix of promising talent and underwhelming performances, with standout rookie contributions from Bryan Bresee and Jordan Howden, while other rookies need to overcome challenges to make a significant impact.