New Orleans Saints Host Wide Receiver Russell Gage and Others for Mini-Camp Tryouts

In a bid to bolster their wide receiver depth, the New Orleans Saints have invited five players to participate in a mini-camp tryout on May 9th and 10th. Among the invitees is highly sought-after free agent Russell Gage, who is expected to attract significant interest from multiple teams.

Russell Gage Highlights Tryout Participants

Wide receiver Russell Gage stands out as the most prominent name on the tryout roster. The 26-year-old receiver, who spent the first four seasons of his career with the Atlanta Falcons, has established himself as a reliable and versatile pass-catcher. During his time with the Falcons, Gage recorded 218 receptions for 2,786 yards and 14 touchdowns.

Known for his quickness, route-running ability, and toughness over the middle, Gage could provide the Saints with a much-needed slot receiver. The Saints currently lack a reliable slot target to complement Michael Thomas and Jarvis Landry on the outside.

Other Tryout Invitees

Joining Gage in New Orleans for the mini-camp tryout are four other players:

Amba Etta-Tawo (Wide Receiver): The 25-year-old receiver played college football at Syracuse before spending the past four seasons bouncing between the practice squads of the Indianapolis Colts, Cincinnati Bengals, and New England Patriots.
Josh Hammond (Wide Receiver): The 24-year-old receiver impressed in his rookie season with the Jacksonville Jaguars in 2021, catching 39 passes for 414 yards and two touchdowns. However, he missed most of last season with a knee injury.
Chris Lacy (Wide Receiver): The 24-year-old receiver played college football at Oklahoma State before spending the past three seasons with the Buffalo Bills. He has primarily served as a special teams contributor.
Shaq Smith (Safety): The 26-year-old safety has spent the past three seasons with the Jacksonville Jaguars, primarily contributing on special teams. He has also played spot duty at safety.

Saints Seek Wide Receiver Depth

The Saints' decision to host these tryouts reflects their desire to add depth to their wide receiver position. With Michael Thomas still recovering from an ankle injury and the team uncertain about the long-term health of Jarvis Landry, the Saints need to ensure they have reliable options at the position.

The tryouts will give the team an opportunity to evaluate the skills and fitness of the invited players. If any of the participants impress, they could potentially earn a contract with the Saints and play a role in the team's offense moving forward.

Gage Expected to Garner Attention

Among the invitees, Russell Gage is expected to draw the most attention. His experience, production, and fit with the Saints' offensive system make him the most likely candidate to earn a contract.

If the Saints can sign Gage, he would provide a significant boost to their offense. His ability to play in the slot and his versatility as a receiver would give quarterback Jameis Winston another reliable target to distribute the ball to.

Tryouts Conclude 10-Day Minicamp

The tryouts will conclude a 10-day minicamp for the Saints, which began on Monday, May 8th. The minicamp is an opportunity for the team to install its offense and defense, evaluate players, and continue building team chemistry.

The Saints are coming off a disappointing 7-10 season in 2022 and are looking to make a significant improvement in 2023. Adding depth and talent at the wide receiver position is a key part of that goal, and the upcoming tryouts will provide the Saints with an opportunity to identify potential contributors.