The New Orleans Saints made a surprising move to carry just two tight ends on the opening-day roster on Saturday, waiving backups Dan Arnold and Alize Mack. Mack’s release was first reported by Mike Triplett of ESPN, and he is their first 2019 NFL Draft pick to not make the team — just a year removed from the Saints cutting four rookie draft picks.
Mack struggled with an undisclosed injury during Saints training camp, missing a few preseason games and extensive practice time. He’s a good candidate to land on the practice squad if he clears waivers, which is likely given his late-round draft status.
With Mack, Arnold, and other offseason reserves off the roster, the Saints are going into Week 1 with just two tight ends on the 53-man roster in offseason pickup Jared Cook and reliable backup Josh Hill. It wouldn’t be a surprise if they make a move or two to pad out the depth chart before they open the season against the Houston Texans.
