Canal Street Chronicles
The first portion of training camp for the New Orleans Saints has come to a close as the team and staff left for California on Wednesday. Some players exceeded expectations while others fell flat, but which players put on the biggest show as we draw closer to the start of the 2025 NFL season?
Kool-Aid McKinstry- CB
The second-year player out of Alabama has made significant strides in this offseason and is set to have a large role in this year’s defense under the helm of defensive coordinator Brandon Staley. New head coach Kellen Moore has been nothing short of complimentary of McKinstry’s efforts this camp.
Kool-Aid made several head-turning plays, including pass breakups and an interception off of Spencer Rattler. Fans should expect big things from the young man as he plays alongside Alontae Taylor and Isaac Yiadom this year.
Danny Stutsman- LB
The rookie from Oklahoma has been a fun watch in training camp. After being drafted in the fourth round of this year’s draft, Stutsman has quickly become favored with the fans, thanks in large part to his aggressive play and “old-school” football wardrobe. Stutsman has been rocking the neck roll and crop-style jersey during practices, leading some to tab him as a “demon.”
While he may primarily be used in special teams during the early part of this season, Stutsman has looked good early on. He’s gone out in coverage, picked off passes, made big hits, and just continues to fly over the gridiron. It will be fun to see him in true game action come Sunday.
Mason Tipton- WR
Although he was listed lower on the first unofficial depth chart, Mason Tipton has been one of the better wideouts through training camp in back-to-back years now. As the quarterback battle continues in New Orleans, it is very reassuring to know that there is a deep group of receivers (so long as they can stay healthy…) to provide offensive firepower. Tipton told reporters that he had bulked up and built muscle mass from last season to be more prepared for the physicality of the league. This should factor in as he returns from injury a year ago.
The Saints will continue practices in California on the campus of UC Irvine ahead of their preseason game against the Los Angeles Chargers on Sunday afternoon.
