Shaheed’s Punt Return Excellence Will Remain a Priority for the Saints in 2025
The New Orleans Saints have one of the NFL’s most dangerous return men on their roster, and it sounds like they intend to use him in that role — even as his star ascends as an offensive player.
Though Rashid Shaheed may not be pulling full triple duty this season — starting at receiver while also serving as the primary punt and kick returner — Saints special teams coordinator Phil Galiano still expects to have Shaheed at his disposal this season.
“We all want to get our best players to have the ball in their hands, because they have a chance to score,” Galiano said. “So, strategically, whether it’s offense or special teams, how can we get the ball in Shid’s hands? Because he’s one of our better playmakers.”
Shaheed has blossomed as a receiver the last few seasons, but he made his name in the return game.
He earned Pro Bowl and a first-team All-Pro nod in 2023 as a return man, averaging 13.6 yards per return on punts. He was even better last year, averaging 15.9 yards per punt return. He’s the only NFL player with a punt return touchdown each of the last two seasons.
And returning punts is probably where he will spend the most time on special teams: New Orleans has used Kendre Miller and Velus Jones as its kick returners in training camp.
“We have some other guys that I think can score when they touch the ball as well, so we’re able to be selective and maybe Shid is not every kick return, maybe it’s certain situations that we may want to use him,” Galiano said.
There is always injury risk to consider in the return game, perhaps especially for Shaheed, who was limited to six games last season before a knee injury ended his campaign. But Galiano said he’s not one that buys into “the injury fear.”
“You either have a helmet and you’re playing on game day, or you’re not,” Galiano said.
“Our players are competitors, too, so if a player says I know I can do this and help our team win, and I say to him, ‘You’re not going to do that because I’m scared you’re going to get hurt,’ that doesn’t send the right message.”
Mike Vrabel Delivers Positive Update for Patriots Ahead of Raiders Clash – “We’re Ready to Make a Statement”
Just days before their highly anticipated Week 1 matchup against the Las Vegas Raiders, New England Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel delivered a much-needed boost to his team, providing fans with encouraging news. As the team prepares for their season opener, Vrabel is confident that the Patriots are in prime shape to make an immediate impact on the field.
“We’re ready to fight and make a statement,” Vrabel said during a press conference. “This is the boost we needed. The guys have been working hard, and we’ve got everything lined up to start the season off strong. We’re focused on what’s ahead, and we’re ready to give everything we’ve got against the Raiders.”
Vrabel’s words come at a time when the Patriots are looking to bounce back after a rocky previous season. With new faces and a renewed sense of purpose, the Patriots are ready to prove that they belong at the top of the AFC East. Vrabel’s leadership has been instrumental in keeping the team’s spirits high and their focus sharp.
“I’ve seen the growth in this team over the offseason,” Vrabel continued. “The energy in the locker room is incredible, and we’re ready to show that we’re prepared for whatever comes our way. The Raiders are a tough opponent, but we’re not backing down.”
The Raiders, led by head coach Josh McDaniels, will pose a significant challenge, but the Patriots are determined to rise to the occasion. Vrabel’s message of confidence is a reminder that the team is stronger than ever, and they’re poised to make their mark in the AFC this season.
With the Patriots now armed with a positive outlook and the confidence to take on their opponents, the stage is set for an exciting Week 1 showdown. Fans can expect nothing less than a gritty, determined performance as the Patriots look to prove that they’re back and ready to make a statement.
