New Orleans Saints: Josh Huff’s fate could mirror Willie Snead’s
After news of his two-game suspension, Josh Huff’s future with the New Orleans Saints could be in jeopardy of following Willie Snead’s in 2017.
Josh Huff’s time in New Orleans is already off to a rocky start. After signing with the New Orleans Saints in February, expectations were moderately high. The team needs another solid receiver while Huff needed a fresh start. Unfortunately for both the Saints and Huff, a monkey wrench has been thrown into it all.
Huff has been suspended for the first two games of 2018. A punishment doled out by the NFL, Huff violated the league’s substance abuse policy. For those who have followed Huff’s career, this isn’t shocking news. Huff has previously been in trouble with the law, ending his time in Philadelphia.
Huff got a chance with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before being released. Despite taking a year off, the Saints agreed to sign him to a future contract. Given Huff’s certain status, will he be headed down a similar path to Willie Snead’s?
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Snead’s three-game suspension completely killed all momentum for him last season. He was poised for a breakout year and after missing three games, couldn’t bounce back. He tried to forge his path in the playoffs, but couldn’t connect with Brees. Those three weeks were key for Snead and they will be for Huff.
The major difference between Snead and Huff is their experience. Snead has been with the team for years, knowing the playbook while Huff hasn’t. He’ll be going into a completely new environment and learning a new playbook. Missing two games is going to be huge in forging a connection with Brees.
The main issue Huff will have in New Orleans is gaining the team and Brees’ trust. Judging by Snead, it’s not going to be easy. The Saints not only value winning but having players who will help them reach the post-season. Huff will have to work incredibly hard to prove he’s worth keeping after missing the first two weeks.
Drew Brees is one of the hardest-working and best quarterbacks in football. Forging a connection with him and earning his trust is necessary. Huff will have to work incredibly hard at both so we’ll see. Ultimately, the decision lies in Huff’s actions.
At age 26 though, there’s still some time for Huff. Looking back at his stats from Philly, there’s potential there. He could have a chance at being the team’s punt or kick returner or even being a key part of their passing game. Maybe Huff won’t fall too far behind and get plugged into the offense quickly.
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Snead might just be an outlier, but it’s hard not to compare the two situations. If anything, Huff has a chance to learn from Snead’s mistake. Fingers crossed Huff either finds his place in the offense or is able to be utilized elsewhere if he doesn’t.