Velus Jones Jr. is the Saints’ Player of the Day, a speedster whose mix of open-field ability and special-teams value could land him on the Week 1 roster vs. Arizona. In two preseason appearances he added a dash of rushing, caught five passes, and returned kicks, illustrating a versatile package that could stretch defenses and provide emergency playmaking for New Orleans.

With cuts approaching, Jones’s combination of speed, multi-position upside, and kickoff return prowess gives him a real shot at the active roster or a practice squad spot, depending on how the Saints weigh gadget plays and depth behind the skill-position group.

The New Orleans Saints have made substantial changes to their running back depth chart this offseason, reshaping a unit that struggled in previous years beyond Alvin Kamara. The team has added new talent through the draft and free agency, including Devin Neal, Marcus Yarns, and Velus Jones Jr., signaling a shift in strategy to enhance their ground game. With Kendre Miller and Jordan Mims no longer on the roster, significant opportunities are available for these newcomers. Kamara accounted for a hefty share of last season's carries, leaving a vacuum for others to step up, particularly Neal, who could see immediate action as a rookie.

This transition aims to bring fresh energy and effectiveness to the running back position, which has faced instability. The Saints’ front office seems determined to find reliable options to support their star player and improve their overall offensive efficiency.