Saints Rookie Impact Report: Week 15

Let’s start the breakdown for the New Orleans Saints’ Sunday matchup against the Carolina Panthers!

OT Kelvin Banks

The Carolina Panthers have not had a great pass rush this year, so Banks should be able to continue his rookie-year dominance. Penalties are something to watch, as they have been an issue in recent weeks.

QB Tyler Shough

Last week, Shough made big play after big play to get the Saints their third win of the season. If he has a similar performance to his first time playing (and defeating) the Panthers, his job may be officaly secured in 2026. He has an excellent ability to make plays on his feet, pick apart defenses, and somehow deal with the extreme amount of pressure thrown at him.

This could be another big day for Shough.

S Jonas Sanker

For Sanker, this has been an interesting couple of weeks on the field for him. Earlier in the season, when he became the starter, he was really impressive. However, that has not really held recently. Missed tackles here and there, disappointing penalties, and even some dropped picks. Yes, it’s not been bad, and Sanker has been well worth the selection used on him, but a nice bounce-back game would get the young safety back on track.

CB Quincy Riley

Onto the other young DB, Riley has a chance for a big game against Carolina. Since becoming the starter, Riley has been a good depth corner for New Orleans. He hasn’t shown CB1 talent yet, but heading into next season, the Saints can feel good about him as a third option alongside Kool-Aid McKinstry. Against the Buccaneers, there was one play on which Riley got just a bit early to the WR, and it was called a penalty. It was extremely close, and although it was the correct call that resulted in a penalty, it was good to see from Riley because his timing seems to be improving.

Now, against the Panthers, with how up and down Bryce Young can be, the rookie CB may be able to get his second interception of the year.

RB Devin Neal

RB Alvin Kamara will be out again this week, which, for Devin Neal, is another excellent opportunity to prove himself. In the last game, Neal had his breakout performance and looked great nearly everywhere. He continued his great blocking, made significant plays in the passing game, and was impressive as the top RB against the Buccaneers’ great run defense.

HC Kellen should go Neal’s way a good amount of Sunday.