Kwon Alexander made his return to New Orleans Saints training camp on Thursday, but the team is easing the linebacker back to action while he continues to recover from Achilles surgery. And now we know how he’s going to fit on the roster, plus which jersey number he’ll be wearing.
The Times-Picayune | Advocate’s Luke Johnson first reported that the Saints released Kendall Donnerson, which was confirmed by NewOrleans.Football’s Nick Underhill. The veteran defensive end was signed on the eve of training camp but struggled to stand out in a position group crowded with recent first-round draft picks like Marcus Davenport and Payton Turner.
Additionally, undrafted rookie linebacker Shaq Smith changed jersey numbers to accommodate Alexander. Smith is now wearing No. 46, having initially chosen Alexander’s preferred No. 58. Smith could be a candidate to make the practice squad if he performs well on special teams in the upcoming preseason games, but Alexander is looking to start next to Demario Davis.
Of course, other highly-drafted players like Pete Werner and Zack Baun may have something to say about that — not to mention Alexander’s ongoing road to recovery. We’ll keep an eye on his progress as camp continues.
