New Orleans Saints Week 1 Training Camp Takeaways: Moore’s Offense Takes Shape

The New Orleans Saints kicked off their 2025 training camp at the Ochsner Sports Performance Center in Metairie, Louisiana, on July 23, ushering in a new era under head coach Kellen Moore. After a disappointing 2024 season, the Saints are leaning on Moore’s offensive expertise and a revamped roster to spark a turnaround. The first week of camp, spanning five practices (July 23–27, with a rest day on July 25), featured intense quarterback battles, defensive dominance, and fan energy at a sold-out practice on July 27. Here are the key takeaways from Week 1 of Saints training camp.

Quarterback Competition Heats Up

The Saints’ quarterback battle among Jake Haener, Spencer Rattler, and rookie Tyler Shough is the centerpiece of camp, with no starter named yet. On July 24, all three rotated first-team reps in red-zone drills, with Haener connecting with Chris Olave for a touchdown on Day 4. Rattler struggled early, throwing an interception to rookie linebacker Danny Stutsman at the goal line on July 27, but rebounded with a 55-yard pass to Mason Tipton on July 30. Shough, a second-round pick from Louisville, showed his strong arm on July 28, scrambling for two big gains in 11-on-11 drills, though he was picked off by safety Julian Blackmon indoors.

Moore’s new offensive system, emphasizing tempo and deep shots, is challenging the young quarterbacks. “We’re learning fast, but it’s a process,” Haener said post-practice. The competition remains fluid, with Haener’s polish, Rattler’s experience, and Shough’s upside keeping fans guessing as padded practices intensify.

Mason Tipton Emerges as a Weapon

Rookie wide receiver Mason Tipton, an undrafted free agent, stole the show in Week 1. On July 25, he impressed with a diving catch in 7-on-7 drills, and on July 30, he hauled in a 55-yard touchdown from Rattler, beating cornerback Quincy Riley and safety Jordan Howden. Tipton capped the week on July 31 with a game-winning score from Haener in a two-minute drill, drawing a pass interference call on Rejzohn Wright before securing the touchdown.

Veterans Chris Olave and Brandin Cooks, back with the Saints, set the tone, with Olave catching a 45-yard pass from Haener on July 28. Cedrick Wilson Jr. added a red-zone score, but Tipton’s speed and hands are making a case for a roster spot, challenging Bub Means and A.T. Perry for WR3 reps.

Running Back Room Shows Versatility

Alvin Kamara remains the Saints’ backfield cornerstone, showing love to fans with post-practice autographs on July 28. He broke off a 20-yard run on Day 5 and caught a screen pass for a first down. Converted wideout Velus Jones Jr., a new addition, surprised with a 35-yard touchdown run in a two-minute drill on July 30, exploiting a defensive lapse. Rookie Jamaal Charles, a fifth-round pick, added burst with a 15-yard catch-and-run on Day 3.

Running backs coach Joel Thomas praised the group’s adaptability to Moore’s scheme, which mixes RPOs and outside runs. Jones’ emergence as a hybrid threat could complement Kamara, but Charles’ pass-catching ability keeps the RB2 battle open.

Defense Sets Physical Tone

Under new defensive coordinator Brandon Staley, the Saints’ defense dominated Week 1, especially in padded practices. Rookie linebacker Danny Stutsman intercepted Rattler at the goal line on July 27, showcasing his speed and instincts. Defensive end Cameron Jordan disrupted plays with a pressure on Shough on Day 4, while defensive tackle Khristian Boyd clogged lanes in run defense. Safety Julian Blackmon, signed just before camp, picked off Haener indoors on July 27, proving his quick adaptation.

The defense’s seven interceptions through five practices highlight its edge, with Staley’s aggressive scheme emphasizing press coverage and blitzes. Linebacker Demario Davis, who missed July 27 for an excused absence, returned to lead drills on July 30, reinforcing the unit’s veteran presence.

Injury Concerns Surface

Injuries posed early challenges, with tight ends Foster Moreau and Taysom Hill starting camp on the PUP list, prompting interest in free agent Noah Fant. Guard Nick Saldiveri was placed on Injured Reserve with a knee injury, leading to the signing of center/guard Shane Lemieux. Right tackle J.T. Gray missed Monday’s practice but returned by July 30, though he is week-to-week with a hamstring issue.

While Kamara and Olave avoided setbacks, the offensive line’s depth is a concern, especially with a joint practice against the Los Angeles Chargers looming on August 6. Moore emphasized recovery, noting, “We’re taking care of their bodies to get good days on the field.”

Offensive Line Finds Chemistry

Right guard Cesar Ruiz highlighted the offensive line’s growing cohesion under Moore’s system, despite Saldiveri’s absence. On July 28, the first padded practice, Ruiz and tackle Landon Young held up against a fierce pass rush led by Jordan and Carl Granderson. Rookie tackle Taliese Fuaga, a first-round pick, showed promise but was beaten by Granderson in one-on-one drills on Day 4.

Moore’s up-tempo offense relies on the line’s ability to protect and open lanes. The addition of Shane Lemieux provides depth, but Fuaga’s development and Gray’s health will be critical as the preseason nears.

Special Teams Spark from Justin Reid

Veteran Justin Reid proved his value on special teams, showcasing versatility in Week 1. On August 2, Reid disrupted a field goal attempt in drills, leveraging his experience from blocking kicks with the Chiefs and Texans. His ability to handle kickoffs and cover tackles adds a unique dimension, making him a lock for the roster. Kicker Wil Lutz, facing his former teammate, went 5-for-6 in field goal attempts, with Reid’s pressure causing the lone miss.

The special teams unit, a focus under Moore, showed energy, with Velus Jones Jr. also contributing as a returner. Reid’s multifaceted skill set could be a game-changer in close contests.

Looking Ahead

Week 1 of Saints training camp revealed a team in transition but brimming with potential. The quarterback battle between Haener, Rattler, and Shough remains unresolved, with each showing flashes in Moore’s new system. Mason Tipton’s emergence and the defense’s physicality, led by Stutsman and Jordan, are early highlights, though injuries to Hill, Moreau, and Saldiveri raise concerns. As the Saints prepare for their August 10 preseason opener against the Los Angeles Chargers, the focus will be on the quarterback race, offensive line cohesion, and staying healthy. Moore’s overhaul is gaining traction. Now it’s about building consistency.

RunTheBlog will continue to provide updates as the Saints progress through training camp. Follow us for the latest news and analysis on New Orleans’ journey to the 2025 season.