Saints 53 Man Roster Starting to Take Shape

Following the Saints' win over Tennessee Friday night in the team's second preseason game, the players that remain in camp don't have much more time to impress the coaches.

Which is okay because, in reality, there aren't that many spots open.

Lyons Yellin of WWL TV has been following things pretty closely and has an update as to where he believes players stand midway through the preseason games.  His opinions are in this story.  For more in-depth analysis, you can click here.

It's becoming pretty obvious the Saints are only going to keep two quarterbacks.  And the decision on who will be Drew Brees' backup has probably already been decided.

The only question among running backs is the fight for the fullback spot.  Austin Johnson, Greg Jones and Erik Long are vying for that spot.  We haven't seen Long in a while since he was injured in the Black and Gold scrimmage.

The Saints really have decisions to make at WR.  Do the Saints keep Robert Meachum?  Did Joe Morgan improve his chances this past Friday?  Will the Saints keep both?  Either one?  There are a couple of talented rookies, Seantavus Jones and Brandon Morgan as well.  This is a position where, basically, four players are fighting for two spots.

On the offensive line, Bryce Harris and Tavon Rooks could be in trouble, as a couple of talented young players are surely in the mix for the final two spots.  Again, this is a position coaches will be watching.

The defensive line is deep.  At least one really good football player isn't going to make the team.  It won't be a surprise if that player is picked up by someone else right away.  It's just a matter of no room at the inn.

If you think the D-line is deep, linebacker is even deeper.  This is also a scenario where more players are playing themselves into the mix, rather than having players drop off.  Don't be surprised if a couple of rookies wind up on the roster at cut time.

Corner is, as always, a big concern.  If you're going to play that position on this team, make sure your insurance is paid up.  And, once again, there are several who have been injured, including Champ Bailey and Patrick Robinson. This is a position to watch, as the Saints may be forced to take a look at the waiver wire if they can't get some people healthy.

Safety is a little more clear.  Obviously the Saints need Jairus Byrd to be healthy.  But this is a position where, for now, the Saints are pretty solid, with two players vying for the final spot.

Decision time is right around the corner.