The New Orleans Saints got a better look at a key part of their rookie class this week during OTAs. Rookie cornerback Quincy Riley has a chance to make an impact as a rookie, and he must be available to make that happen.
Quincy Riley back in action at practice
The rookie cornerback for the Saints has returned to the field after recovering from an injury. Riley had a procedure done after the draft, but he is expected to be a full go by the time the season rolls around for New Orleans.
Riley lined up at outside cornerback during full walkthroughs for the Saints on Thursday, according to Mike Triplett.
Riley will absolutely play a role for the Saints in year one of his NFL career. He may not be a starter, but it is fair to expect that he will get on the field on both defense and special teams.
A to Z Sports contributor Tyler Forness was a huge fan of Riley's game ahead of this year's draft. Check out the strengths in his game, according to Forness, below.
- Aggressiveness: Riley is a dog in coverage. Whether it's playing off coverage or press-man, he has a knack for attacking the receiver and going for the ball. Throughout the route, Riley stays in the hip pocket and has no problem getting in their grill.
- Ball Production: Riley had a very quick, instinctive trigger when it comes to attacking the football. He has experience with 1,622 pass coverage snaps across six seasons, but capitalized with 13 interceptions and 34 passes defended. Riley will attack the football consistently and with malice.
- Fluidity: Riley was used in a variety of ways at Louisville. He's got enough versatility to play both on the outside and in the slot due to his quick feet and oily hips.
- Play On An Island: Riley was consistently asked to play on an island for the Cardinals and was trusted on both the field and boundary side against really good competition.
Riley will have to pass up one of Kool-Aid McKinstry or Isaac Yiadom for a starting role outside for the Saints.
Alontae Taylor is expected to start at the "star" role for Brandon Staley and take plenty of snaps in the slot for New Orleans' defense. Ugo Amadi is another option at slot CB for New Orleans.
Getting back onto the field to practice was a great step forward toward Riley proving himself to be a valuable piece as a rookie for the Saints.
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