Thursday night is the last big chance for those competing for roster spots and playing time with the New Orleans Saints. As the team prepares to cut 22 players to arrive at the 53-man limit, here are the key battles to watch Thursday when the Saints take on the Ravens.
1. Back Up Quarterback: although Luke McCown and Ryan Griffin received more time than expected to make an impression given Drew Brees' injured oblique, both need to have a strong showing Thursday night. If one of these two players excels, he may win the job of pinch-hitting for Brees in a 2-quarterback system. If both McCown and Griffin shine, or if both flop, the team may opt to go with 3 quarterbacks this season.
2. Wide Receiver: Brandin Cooks, Marques Colston and Kenny Stills have their slots locked up, but Robert Meacham, Nick Toon and Joe Morgan are all still jockeying for position.
3. Kicker: veteran Shayne Graham and newcomer Derek Dimke have gone tit for tat all preseason. This is likely the hardest battle to call right now. A definitive performance from one Thursday could help clarify the picture.
4. Cornerback: the Saints have a plethora of riches here, and therefore, good problems. Keenan Lewis is a lock for one starting role, but it's been fun watching the competition on the other side between Champ Bailey, Patrick Robinson and Stanley Jean-Baptiste. Corey White has likely proven himself valuable enough in nickel situations to convince the Saints to keep 5 cornerbacks. Brian Dixon, Trevino Wade and Terrence Frederick will be making their last pitch to be in the special teams number.
