3 Saints special teams aces recognized by Bill Belichick

New Orleans Saints players J.T. Gray, Anfernee Orji and Rashid Shaheed all made Bill Belichick’s first midseason team as standouts on special teams:

Former New England Patriots coach and eight-time Super Bowl champ Bill Belichick has quickly transitioned into the media landscape, with plenty of outlets competing for some of his time. His latest project is developing essentially an All-Pro Team halfway through the season called the All-Belichick Midseason Team.

The New Orleans Saints are represented three times on that list, all of whom play on special teams. J.T. Gray, Anfernee Orji and Rashid Shaheed all made the cut.

This is a major look for Orji. The young linebacker is looking to make a name in this league, and appearing on an All-NFL team created by the greatest coach of all time is certainly one way to do it. Belichick specifically highlighted Orji’s kickoff return coverage, even though Orji made it on the punt team. His 5 special teams tackles are among the most in the NFL.

Gray is a former All-Pro player on special teams. Coach called Gray, “a productive player ever since he’s came in the league.” He’s tied for the league lead with 7 special teams tackles, plus a blocked punt.

There were two kick returners on the team, and Shaheed was paired on this list with Cowboys’ returner KaVontae Turpin. Unfortunately, Shaheed’s injury will keep him from making the All-Pro team at the end of the season. His inclusion on this list shows you his trajectory, returning one punt for a touchdown in his six games this year.

[lawrence-auto-related count=5]