Bleacher Report’s Alex Kay called New Orleans Saints defensive end Payton Turner a potential roster cut that should be on other teams’ radar. There are some notable names on the list alongside Turner, but his status as a former first round draft pick does make him more appealing than others.
This designation meant two things for Turner, from Kay’s perspective. Turner may be released but has the talent to possibly contribute elsewhere. Kay argues Turner does indeed check both of those boxes:
He has the length and athleticism required to succeed on the edge at the professional level at 6’6″, 270 pounds while possessing plenty of explosiveness and power within that frame.
Although he hasn’t managed to translate those skills to the pro level yet, he has occasionally flashed when he hasn’t been sidelined by significant shoulder and foot injuries. He had a two-sack game against the Las Vegas Raiders in 2022, a contest that showcased his ability to disrupt.
Turner is obviously a camp casualty candidate. The Saints have drafted Isaiah Foskey early in the second round and also signed Chase Young in free agency over the last two years. New Orleans has been trying to find the answer at defensive end, but it’s been elusive.
Turner’s injury concerns have opened the door for more talent to walk in. The room could reach capacity with Turner as the odd man out. The problem with him is he has flashed his talent at times. It feels like if he was ever able to play over half a season he may be able to build upon some of these good moments. He’s only played 15 games in his three-year career.
If Turner is cut, another team could easily see those moments and give him a chance because of it. No one knows for sure what he could be with a full season. It’s likely a team would take the gamble to find out. But with Tanoh Kpassagnon possibly out for the year with a torn Achilles tendon, it’s unlikely the Saints are ready to cut ties with Turner just yet.
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