New Orleans Saints: Where does Daniel Lasco fit?
The New Orleans Saints have an extremely crowded backfield with lots of potential and talent, but how does Daniel Lasco work into the equation?
Running back was a position with a huge question mark for the New Orleans Saints this offseason. It has since become a position with a lot of different faces and only a few making the roster. Obviously, Mark Ingram, Adrian Peterson, and Alvin Kamara are all shoo-ins, but what about Daniel Lasco?
Lasco came out of Cal after a mildly impressive 2015 season. He finished with 331 yards on 65 carries and three touchdowns for the Golden Bears. Those aren’t the greatest stats, but he only played nine games, so there’s a little bit of leeway. New Orleans drafted him in the seventh round in 2016. Last season, Lasco left a lot to the imagination.
He started in seven games, finishing out the season with 32 rushing yards, averaging a little under three yards per carry and two receptions for 11 yards. The main issue for Lasco was trying to stay healthy as he missed eight games with a hamstring injury. Injuries seemed to be the theme for the Saints last season, which hopefully subsides this upcoming season.
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There’s definitely a place for Lasco on the Saints, but probably not where he wants it. He’s all but lost his starting job to Kamara, but he could be looking at a new beginning. Last season, Sean Payton spoke about Lasco saying, per The Times-Picayune, “Not only has he helped us in the kicking game, but I think he’s really progressed as a running back.” His progression as a running back might be halted for now, but he could be their secret weapon.
Last season, Lasco was known for his contributions to special teams. He was great at defending and making plays when needed. Even though it’s an overlooked position, special teams are key in making plays and winning games. It’s worth nothing that Lasco took a majority of his snaps on special teams and was one of the top players taking snaps there before his injury.
As far as securing a roster spot, it’s hard to tell if Lasco will be here next season. He made an impact, but it’s up to the Saints if they’re willing to gamble. The Saints will more than likely utilize him on special teams if he does make it.
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Fitting him in an already crammed backfield will be a challenge, but making room for him on special teams could be key. The fit might not be what either expected but could be exactly what both need.