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Deatrick Nichols returned to the NFL in a better spot than he left it, having last played a handful of special teams snaps for the Arizona Cardinals. It was hardly the career turn he anticipated after graduating from the University of South Florida back in 2017, having put up gaudy statlines including 11 interceptions in three years as a starter. But his time with the XFL’s Houston Roughnecks convinced the New Orleans Saints to recruit him, and now he’ll have a chance to compete in one of the NFL’s most talented depth charts.
Nichols discussed his path forward with Deuce Windham of Canal Street Chronicles, acknowledging that his success in Houston won’t be enough to guarantee a roster spot in New Orleans. He’s eager to prove he can make plays covering punts and kickoffs, and earn his place on the 53-man roster.
“Field position is everything in this game,” Nichols said. “You’ll get way more respect and love from your teammates and coaches off making plays on special teams. I know special teams is going to be my path to making the Saints roster. The first day I get in the building I am going to the special teams coach and introducing myself. It’s a great feeling to run down the field and make a tackle before the 25. Special teams is the way you make a NFL roster!”
Other Saints players have learned the same lesson Nichols stressed here: excellence in the game’s third phase have made careers for prospects who might have been on the fringe of NFL interest otherwise. Just look at safety J.T. Gray, who made the roster outright as an undrafted rookie a few years ago before earning Pro Bowl and All-Pro recognition in 2019.
But while Nichols is enthusiastic about the impact he can make in the kicking game, he’s also looking forward to getting on the field on defense. When faced with a scenario where he could be pushed into a game against Tom Brady and the Tampa Buccaneers, Nichols emphasized the importance of keeping a good attitude.
“Being able to face a guy like Brady and knowing most likely it’s coming your way,” Nichols mused, noting that it’s critical to not feel overmatched by the moment. “This is a perfect time to make a story for your grandkids. However, my mind set in football is ‘stay ready, so you don’t have to get ready.'”
It’s clear that this opportunity isn’t something Nichols is taking lightly. He’s already experienced life on the edge of NFL relevancy, bouncing on and off of a team’s practice squad and testing the waiver wire each week. A strong summer with the Saints and consistent performance at training camp could go a long well to ensuring he sticks around, and he’ll do all he can to make that happen.
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