The Saints figure to be switching to more of a run-based offense this year. They've sunk good money into running backs and their offensive line, and parted ways with Jimmy Graham and Kenny Stills. But this is still Sean Payton and Drew Brees, so there's opportunity for the receivers -- including Nick Toon.
"I’m excited for Nick Toon," says Brees. "He’s got a great opportunity. I think there’s a great fit for him.” Toon hasn't done much since being drafted in the fourth round back in 2012, but finished relatively strong last year. He caught 17 passes in the final six games.
Brandin Cooks is everyone's favorite breakout wide receiver, and you'll hear a lot of "solid veteran" talk in regards to Marques Colston. Josh Hill is a sleeper tight end. But Colston is old and injury-prone and Hill is a relative unknown. Toon emerging as one of Brees' top two targets is entirely possible.
Toon, of course, isn't the only young Saint who could step into that role. They've got other wide receivers, including Joe Morgan, Josh Morgan and guys like Brandon Coleman and Seantavius Jones.
But experience, potential, and positive words from Brees and Payton ("I think we'll see his snaps go way up") count for a lot. You have to be a little intrigued by Toon.
--Andy Richardson