The New Orleans Saints came into the 2023 NFL season with high hopes, fueled by significant offseason acquisitions, but now find themselves sitting at a disappointing 3-4 record. The expectations were sky-high, especially after signing quarterback Derek Carr, getting Michael Thomas back from a two-season injury spell, and welcoming exciting receivers Chris Olave and Rashid Shaheed to the team. Additionally, the Saints appeared to have a favorable schedule. However, the results on the field have not matched the preseason optimism.
A major source of frustration among Saints fans has been the team's inability to capitalize in the red zone. With a 36% success rate (7-19), it's clear that something isn't clicking when it matters most. Derek Carr, the much-anticipated quarterback addition, has not lived up to the lofty expectations. Carr's stat line thus far – 1,600 yards, 6 touchdowns, and 4 interceptions – raises concerns. Fans are now left to ponder the value of Carr's hefty 4-year, $150 million contract with $100 million guaranteed. With these numbers, some may wonder whether he's any different from the quarterback he replaced.
Chris Olave, who was expected to be the Saints' number one receiver this season, has also disappointed. Despite a promising rookie year, Olave has exhibited frustration on the field, seemingly running routes halfheartedly and not giving his all on every play. His recent arrest for speeding in a 30-mile zone only adds to the growing list of concerns. This raises questions about the team's ability to maintain discipline both on and off the field.
Moreover, the Saints' stubbornness when it comes to making necessary changes to address their issues is a cause for concern. The recent 31-24 loss to the Jacksonville Jaguars, followed by a mini-bye week, gave fans hope for change. However, head coach Dennis Allen opted not to make any significant alterations, leaving many to wonder if he's in over his head.
Veteran players like Alvin Kamara and Michael Thomas have voiced their concerns about the team's offensive struggles. It's rare to see such outspokenness among players, particularly when compared to the Sean Payton era, where most issues remained in-house. The fact that players are speaking out suggests that there may be a lack of control within the team, a departure from the disciplined culture that was a hallmark of the Payton era.
Derek Carr's struggles to find chemistry with Chris Olave were laid bare during a recent game. Carr's public frustration with Olave, when the receiver stopped on a route during a critical 3rd down play, underscores the challenges the Saints are facing. Head coach Dennis Allen's record, both overall and during his tenure with the Saints, stands at 10-14 and 18-42, respectively, raising questions about his ability to steer the ship in the right direction.
As the Saints' 2023 season teeters on the edge of disappointment, the organization needs to decide how to respond. A failure to address the ongoing issues could lead to a season that spirals out of control, requiring a complete overhaul of the team's culture. The hopes of a season that began with high expectations now seem to rest on whether the Saints can right the ship and recapture their winning ways.
Kommentare