Saints have a surprising player of the game in preseason finale

We have a surprising player of the game as the the New Orleans Saints close their preseason slate with a loss to the Denver Broncos. Blake Grupe closed his strong offseason with a flawless performance in the New Orleans Saints preseason finale.

Grupe received two of the four votes from our analysts. The kicker had three field goal attempts and nailed all three. Grupe was having a strong training camp, and this was the exclamation point on months of consistency.

Grupe winning this distinction means we've had a defensive player, offensive player and a specialist win this title during the preseason. In addition to Grupe, there were also two defensive backs who saw themselves get votes this week.

Blake Grupe's accuracy impresses our voters

Drew Collings- Blake Grupe is ready for the next tier

My player of the game is Blake Grupe. Grupe hit 3 field goals against the Broncos from 48, 49 and 56 yards. It wasn’t just that he made it, but each kick was right down the middle with plenty of distance. Charlie Smyth was supposed to challenge him for the starting role, however, Grupe has been far and away the best kicker. Today proved that he can be one of the premier kickers in the NFL.

Tramell Jeffers- Quincy Riley's knack for the football shows up

Saints 4th round pick Quincy Riley has left a strong impression during his very first training camp. He closed the 2025 preseason finale with 4 total tackles, a pass breakup, and a key third quarter interception, which saw the Broncos execute 14 plays for 60 yards. Riley’s big turnover and solid performance earn him the Saints player of the game.

Darrion Gray- Rejzohn Wright will make cut day difficult

Rejzohn Wright had a quietly strong game. His length jumped off the screen and was highlighted with his pass deflection where he took away what is typically an efficient throw from the offense between the corner and safety. In addition to that, Wright was the Saints leading tackler. He was physical at the point of contact, and has made cut day interesting at the bottom of the cornerback room.

Molly Bauer- Blake Grupe ends the kicker competition

My player of the game is kicker Blake Grupe, who is currently facing competition from Irishman Charlie Smyth. Grupe made 3/3 field goals on Saturday, contributing nine points in the 28-19 loss against the Denver Broncos. He made them all from a decent distance too (first from 47, then from 48, then from 56). With this game, he has officially earned a third season in New Orleans.