New Orleans Saints: 5 X-factor players for Week 1 vs. Bucs

2. Emmanuel Sanders

The last two players might be unlikely guys to make the cut but these two could end up being secret weapons for the New Orleans Saints. The first is Emmanuel Sanders. Sanders was picked up during the offseason after going to the Super Bowl with the San Fransisco 49ers. While some might point to Michael Thomas as an X-Factor, Sanders would be a much better choice. Not only do the Bucs have no idea how the Saints are going to utilize him but they’re also unsure of how big his role will be.

Last season, Sanders had a slight career resurgence, and no doubt he’s hoping for a similar outcome as he starts week 1 with the Saints. While the Bucs defense is going to be focusing on Thomas, they might not put as much attention on Sanders. Ultimately, week 1 is going to be a good test to see if Sanders will be an X-factor for the rest of the season. Hopefully, the game ends with Sanders finding his way to the end-zone to be sure.

1. Deonte Harris

The other player is from special teams and that’s Deonte Harris. At only 22 years old, Harris is among one of the youngest guys on the team. However, his role as a return specialist has made him an extreme asset to the New Orleans Saints. In particular, Harris finished last season with 1 punt-return touchdown and amassed 644 yards from kick-returns. Simply put, Harris has played above and beyond all expectations, the team likely had for him.

Going up against the Bucs, Harris has the chance to set the precedent early. Even if he doesn’t get a return touchdown, getting a few good runs are going to take the pressure off the offense and keep the Bucs on their toes. Special teams are such an underrated group but no one should underestimate Deonte Harris. He’s proven his value time and time again so hopefully, he can put on a solid performance against the Bucs.