Saints' biggest NFL draft steal already changing the way his coaches think

SI's Ross Jackson talked to Saints tight ends coach Clancy Barone about Holker.

"We view him as our as our eighth-round draft choice. And we view that highly. That a guy that probably should have been drafted by everyone's measure throughout the league, for some reason fell to us. And we're very fortunate to have him we're very excited to work with him." -- Clancy Barone, Saints TEs Coach via Ross Jackson

The Saints clearly have a unique perspective on the young tight end. 

That's notable respect for a player that did not get drafted by any other NFL team. Holker was projected to go between round four and seven by many mock drafters before the selection process. Draft analysts thought he could land on an active roster, and as time passes, that seems more likely for he and the Saints. 

New Orleans just lost Juwan Johnson to an injury expected to keep him out through training camp. 

Depending on his recovery, his return could be delayed even further. Only time will tell. The Saints also have veteran Foster Moreau and Taysom Hill at tight end. Both of those guys will certainly be on the roster, but we all know Taysom's unique usage. 

Regardless, the Saints added Holker as a depth piece and spent the most guaranteed money on him compared to any of their other UDFA signings. They saw the potential in his game before he even suited up for them in practice. 

Now, he's proving that his skillset is impressive enough for the staff to take notice. We will see if he can get some playing time for the Saints in 2024.