The countdown is on for the New Orleans Saints as they prepare for their 2025 regular season opener against the Arizona Cardinals, just 93 days away. Defensive lineman Nathan Shepherd will don the number 93, joining a historic list of players who have worn the number for the Saints. Notable past players include Wayne Martin, a franchise legend with impressive stats, and Darren Howard, who had a significant impact during his tenure. Shepherd, now in his third year with the Saints, aims to build on his solid stats from previous seasons as he fits into Brandon Staley's defensive strategy.

The New Orleans Saints have opted to retain key players while also making strategic changes to their roster this offseason. Notable incomings include Brandin Cooks, who returns after a stint with the Dallas Cowboys, and defensive lineman Nathan Shepherd. However, the Saints have seen the departure of former first-round pick Payton Turner, whose tenure was marred by injuries and underwhelming performance, totaling just 5 sacks over four seasons. Turner has now signed with the Cowboys, where he expressed enthusiasm for the shift in defensive schemes under Matt Eberflus, highlighting the Cowboys' focus on versatility and aggressive play style, contrasting with the Saints' more rigid system.

Turner acknowledged the challenges he faced in New Orleans, particularly in adapting to a system that emphasized technique over instinctive play. He believes that his ability to penetrate the offense could flourish in Dallas, allowing him to play to his strengths. With renewed focus on conditioning and a fresh start, Turner hopes to emerge as a more impactful player in his fifth season. Meanwhile, the Saints are looking to solidify their roster around their returning stars as they prepare for the upcoming season.

The New Orleans Saints are set to face the Green Bay Packers without wide receiver Marquez Valdes-Scantling, who is sidelined due to illness. This comes after he struggled with flu symptoms earlier in the week.

In his absence, the Saints will likely rely on a mix of players including Tipton, Pettis, Austin, and Wilson, as well as tight ends Moreau and Johnson to enhance their offensive strategy.

In a matchup against the Green Bay Packers, New Orleans Saints quarterback Spencer Rattler took the helm in his fourth career start, filling in for the injured Derek Carr. The Saints were also missing key players, including Pro Bowl running back Alvin Kamara and wide receiver Marquez Valdes-Scantling.

On the Packers' side, their secondary faced significant challenges, missing three starters, including cornerback Jaire Alexander. Despite his return to practice, Alexander has yet to play, marking his fifth consecutive absence. The Packers' offense did see the return of tight end Luke Musgrave from injured reserve, though he has struggled this season.

The Green Bay Packers are vying for a wild-card berth after a challenging season, facing tough competition from the Detroit Lions, Minnesota Vikings, and Philadelphia Eagles. Despite their losses to these strong teams, the Packers remain unbeaten against the rest of the NFL, securing 10 wins so far.

On the other hand, the New Orleans Saints are struggling after a promising start, leading to the firing of head coach Dennis Allen. With interim coach Darren Rizzi at the helm, the Saints aim to finish the season strong, despite key player injuries.