In a stunning turn of events, the New Orleans Saints are reportedly considering cutting their first-round pick, edge defender Payton Turner, just three years after drafting him. Turner, who was selected with the 28th-overall pick in the 2021 NFL Draft, was expected to bolster the team’s pass rush and usher in a new era for the Saints post-Drew Brees. However, his lackluster performance on the field has left much to be desired.
Throughout his three-year career, Turner has played in only 15 games, failing to secure a single start. His underwhelming stats include just three sacks, 29 tackles, eight tackles-for-loss, and eight quarterback hits. With the Saints facing salary cap constraints, they could save $2.36 million by parting ways with Turner, making it a tempting option for the team.
Dakota Randall of Pro Football Network predicts that the Saints will indeed release Turner, but his football journey might not be over just yet. According to Randall, players with first-round pedigree often get second chances, and the Baltimore Ravens and Jacksonville Jaguars are potential landing spots for Turner if he hits the open market.
The Ravens, known for their prowess in drafting and nurturing talent, could take a chance on Turner to fill the void left by pass-rusher Jadeveon Clowney. With a roster brimming with potential, the Ravens have options like Kyle Van Noy and Odafe Oweh to step up, but Turner’s availability could offer a low-risk, medium-reward option for the team.
Similarly, the Jaguars, who are still in need of depth along the defensive line, could benefit from Turner’s presence. As they gear up to face tough quarterbacks like C.J. Stroud and dynamic playmakers like Anthony Richardson in their division, adding another pass rusher like Turner could be a smart move for Jacksonville.
While Turner may not reach All-Pro status, a change of scenery could reignite his career and potentially lead to increased production. As the NFL offseason unfolds, all eyes will be on the fate of Payton Turner and which team will take a chance on the young edge rusher.
The NFL landscape is always full of surprises, and the potential release of Payton Turner by the Saints is just another twist in the ongoing drama of professional football. Whether he lands with the Ravens, Jaguars, or another team altogether, the next chapter of Turner’s career is sure to be an intriguing one.
Photo: Stephen Lew – USA Today Sports.
