With just 43 days until the New Orleans Saints' season opener against the Arizona Cardinals, the spotlight falls on punter Matthew Hayball, wearing number 43. Having emerged after an undrafted stint in 2024, Hayball is poised to solidify his position following a mixed rookie season. As the team embarks on a new era under head coach Kellen Moore, Hayball aims to be the first punter to maintain the job beyond one season in three years. His journey from Adelaide to the NFL showcases his athletic versatility, transitioning from Australian rules football to American football, a shift that has him eager to prove himself.
At 6'0" and 189 pounds, he carries a Relative Athletic Score of 5.04, suggesting a respectable athletic profile as he integrates into the Saints' special teams environment. His current cap hit is just under a million dollars, making him a cost-effective option for a team looking to optimize performance on a budget. Hayball’s performance this season will be crucial not just for his career, but for the Saints as they look to make a strong statement in the 2025 season.