The New Orleans Saints continue to showcase their talent acquisition prowess by successfully signing undrafted free agents (UDFAs). In recent years, the Saints have transformed several UDFAs into key contributors, including names like Chris Ivory and Juwan Johnson. This trend appears set to continue with the addition of Alabama punter James Burnip, who has emerged as a standout in his college career. Brent Sobleski of Bleacher Report suggests Burnip has the best chance of all UDFAs to make the Saints roster this season.

Burnip’s performance during his final season at Alabama featured impressive averages, including a net punting average that significantly outperformed that of last year's rookie punter, Matthew Hayball. With both punters receiving similar contracts, competition for the punter position appears fierce. Given Burnip's size and collegiate success, he may well secure the job and elevate the Saints' special teams unit.

Despite entering the 2025 NFL draft with 11 potential draftees, Alabama was only able to watch as seven of their players were selected. This left four talented players without a team, who quickly found new homes as undrafted free agents. Among them, tight end CJ Dippre has signed with the New England Patriots after a notable collegiate career where he recorded 32 receptions for 443 yards. Punter James Burnip, another noteworthy prospect, has joined the New Orleans Saints after an impressive season at Alabama, while long snapper Kneeland Hibbett is heading to the Miami Dolphins. Graham Nicholson, however, remains without a team following his perfect kicking performance in college.