Barion Brown is going to earn his spot on the 53-man roster because of his ability as a kick returner, but Kellen Moore wants to make it clear that isn't the ceiling for the New Orleans Saints' sixth round pick. Moore sees Brown as a returner and receiver, and he's right to view him that way.
Moore told media, "(Brown's) a receiver as well. I think that's the important asset that we view this as is we're onboarding a guy who's a returner and a receiver. It's not going to be just a returner and nothing else."
Brown had 6 kickoff returns for a touchdown in college. It's hard to not get excited about that. He also had three seasons with more than 500 yards. He was an exciting transfer option when he came to LSU last year, but injuries at quarterback slowed down the entire offense. Still, he led the team in yards.
Saints using Barion Brown at wide receiver could be more than coach speak
Brown's immediate value will be as a kick returner, however, he could get involved in the offense quicker than you may think. Brown has the traits to be a true yards after catch specialist, and that's the one archetype fans were looking for the Saints to add this season.
While they stacked the room, it's hard to say the Saints have a YAC guy. Jordyn Tyson has run after the catch ability, but it's not his bread and butter. It is for Brown. If the Saints decide to get him in the fold offensively, he's the type of player you want to get the ball in his hands early and let him work in space. That could be quick screens or moving him around the formation to create unorthodox matchups.
The opportunity is there too. The first three receivers for the Saints are set in stone, but everyone beyond Chris Olave, Devaughn Vele and Tyson is fighting for a spot. 4th round pick Bryce Lance should be a lock to make the roster, but where he sits on the roster is to be determined.
In no way is Ja'Lynn Polk a lock on the roster. He and Trey Palmer should battle in training camp for the last spot on the roster, even if the winner ends up as WR4. Polk and Palmer missed all season with an injury.
Brown showcasing his ability in the offseason could place him above other receivers in the pecking order. He's already flashing as a receiver in rookie minicamp, delivering the play of the day on Saturday. It wouldn't be surprising to see Brown grow into a minor role offensively as early as his rookie season, and Moore is leaving the door open for that.
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