The New Orleans Saints, with their sights set firmly on the upcoming 2025 season, have packed their bags and departed for California. The cross-country trip marks the next phase of their preseason preparations, culminating in a highly anticipated contest against the Los Angeles Chargers this Sunday. While the game itself won’t count in the standings, it represents a crucial opportunity for both coaches and players to evaluate the roster, test new schemes, and solidify positions before the regular season begins.
This inaugural preseason game, scheduled for Sunday at 3:05 PM CT in the state-of-the-art SoFi Stadium, serves as the first live-action test for a Saints team looking to build on its foundation and integrate new talent. The coaching staff will be meticulously watching how players perform under the bright lights, looking beyond just the box score. The Chargers, led by their renowned new head coach Jim Harbaugh, present a formidable first challenge. Harbaugh’s reputation for instilling a physical, run-first mentality means the Saints’ defensive line and linebackers will face an early test of their strength and discipline. Similarly, the Saints’ offense will have to be ready to compete against a well-coached and disciplined Chargers defense.
Beyond the starters, the preseason is where dreams are either realized or deferred, and the battle for the final roster spots will be in full swing. This is the stage for bubble players to make a lasting impression. Positions like the offensive line, the back end of the defensive secondary, and, as of this week, the tight end room, are all areas where competition is particularly fierce.
Roster Boost at Tight End
Speaking of tight ends, the Saints made a noteworthy transaction on Tuesday by claiming tight end Mason Pline off waivers. The move adds a new dimension to an already competitive position group. Pline, a 6-foot-7, 260-pound prospect, brings a unique background to the team. He was originally signed as an undrafted free agent by the San Francisco 49ers following the 2024 NFL Draft, having played his collegiate career at Furman after a stop at Ferris State, where he was part of two Division II National Championship teams. His path to the NFL is particularly interesting, as he initially played basketball for three seasons in college before switching to football. This late transition gives him significant upside and raw athleticism that the Saints are likely hoping to harness.
With a crowded tight end room that includes established players like Juwan Johnson and Foster Moreau, as well as the versatile Taysom Hill, Pline faces an uphill battle but has the physical tools to make an impression. The Saints’ tight end depth chart has been an area of focus in recent years, and Pline’s addition signals the team’s commitment to finding a player with a high ceiling who can contribute as both a pass-catcher and a blocker. Given his size and history, he could develop into a valuable red-zone target, a role the Saints have often sought to fill. The coaching staff will be closely observing his performance in practices and the upcoming game to see if he can quickly acclimate to the team’s system and stand out from the pack.
Off-Field Highlights and Community Connection
While the on-field action is the main focus, the Saints are also providing a wealth of content and opportunities for fans to engage with the team. A new episode of “Off the Gridiron” presented by Ochsner Health is set to air, featuring running back Alvin Kamara’s offseason trip to Chicago. Kamara, a fan favorite and a cornerstone of the Saints’ offense, is known for his unique personality and style. This kind of behind-the-scenes content gives fans a glimpse into the lives of their heroes outside of football, fostering a deeper connection and appreciation for the players as individuals. As Kamara enters his ninth season, his leadership and experience will be more vital than ever, and a look into his personal life provides a valuable reminder of the human element behind the sport.
The team is also building excitement for the home opener in September with the announcement of the 2025 Saints Kickoff Run. Hosted by Hancock Whitney on September 6, the event is more than just a race. It’s a celebration of the Saints community, offering a one-of-a-kind experience for participants to run through the city before finishing on the hallowed 50-yard line of the Caesars Superdome. The post-race party with live entertainment and a beer garden creates a festive atmosphere, tying the community event directly to the energy and passion of a Saints gameday. This is a perfect example of how the organization blends sports and community, creating memorable experiences that last well beyond the final whistle.
Finally, the Saints are tapping into a different kind of fan passion with the “MVPet” contest. The search for a “Most Valuable Pet” encourages fans to share photos of their dogs decked out in Saints gear for a chance to win tickets and Raising Cane’s swag. This lighthearted competition not only generates fun, engaging content for social media but also deepens the emotional bond between the team and its supporters, recognizing that the Saints family extends to every member of the household—four-legged ones included.
As the team arrives in California, all eyes will be on SoFi Stadium, where the roster battles and preseason tests begin in earnest. The blend of on-field intensity and off-field community engagement highlights the multi-faceted approach the Saints are taking to kick off the 2025 season. The next few weeks will be crucial in shaping the final roster and preparing the team for a successful campaign.
