In a major roster move, the New Orleans Saints have secured the services of 13 players from their 2023 practice squad, signing them onto reserve/future contracts for the much-anticipated 2024 season. However, the team has refrained from immediately renewing the contracts of three members: offensive lineman Colby Gossett, wide receiver Marquez Callaway, and rookie receiver Shaquan Davis.
Understanding Reserve/Future Contracts
Reserve/future contracts are generally minimum-salary agreements that assure a player’s place on the team’s 90-man offseason roster. These contracts are standard protocol in the NFL, giving teams the flexibility to retain promising talent without committing to hefty salaries. Notably, the Saints’ latest move does not exclude them from scouting and signing other talents in the league once practice squad contracts have expired.
The Case of the Excluded Trio
Although Gossett, Callaway, and Davis were not immediately offered new deals, this does not imply a definitive end to their tenure with the Saints. The team still retains the option to negotiate with them later, once other priorities have been addressed. Of the three, Davis’ absence from the list of re-signed players has raised eyebrows among Saints fans.
Shaquan Davis: A Rookie Star on the Rise
Shaquan Davis, an undrafted rookie from South Carolina State, made quite a splash during the 2023 preseason. With seven receptions amounting to 101 yards, Davis’ performance from the slot position stood out, making him a fan favorite. His impressive physical stature at 6-foot-5 and 215 pounds further added to his appeal. Unfortunately, a mid-season injury put a pause to Davis’ promising progress. As per speculations, Davis, along with Gossett and Callaway, may still return to vie for roster spots in the upcoming 2024 season.
