Is Bryce Lance Up Next For The Saints?

Unfortunately, for the New Orleans Saints, the coveted first-round wide receiver Jordyn Tyson could be out for two months. A silver lining is that one man's adversity is another's opportunity. The door swings open for Devaughn Vele and Bryce Lance to make the most of the vacated reps. 

Vele was strong down the stretch last season, and it is likely going to start opposite Chris Olave in Week 1. However, Lance made noise shortly after that event and took reps with the starters at the joint practice against the Los Angeles Rams. 

Ross Jackson of Louisianareports.net noted Lance's performance from that session.

"While rookie wide receiver Jordyn Tyson is sidelined for the near future with a hamstring injury, questions arose concerning which wideout would step up in his absence.

The answer has been fourth-round pick Bryce Lance. 

Lance was targeted five times by Shough in first-team drills, reeling in all five for receptions, two of which in the endzone.

While Tyson focuses on his recovery, the Saints’ focus appears to be on Lance to be one of the players that can contribute to the passing game early in the season."

Now, it is note worthy that Olave was given a rest day after a full workload against the Cowboys, but Lance's performance is encouraging. Coming out of NDSU, the projection for Lance was as a vertical threat, but these latest reports indicate someone adding to his repertoire with his success in the red zone with quarterback Tyler Shough. 

Lance caught his first pass on Thursday from Shough and scored, with Quentin Lake in coverage; Lake is a name-brand secondary member for the Rams. On his birthday, Lance started his development, and good reports are always welcome.

The preseason matchup with the Rams will go a long way toward Lance's development. Preseason results don't matter; what you put on tape matters. 

Saints head coach Kellen Moore was impressed with Lance against the Rams.

"Good work. Contested catches against really talented corners," head coach Kellen Moore said. "These guys have some good players on their defense, and so I thought it was awesome for him."

Five catches on six targets, including a 20-yard gain over the middle, and two touchdowns is a great start for the young receiver. Let's see if he can continue his upward trajectory.