ESPN Reports: New Orleans Saints Sign WR Tyquan Thornton to Practice Squad
In a move aimed at bolstering their receiving corps, the New Orleans Saints have signed wide receiver Tyquan Thornton to their practice squad, according to an ESPN report. Thornton, a 2022 second-round pick by the New England Patriots, brings additional speed and depth to the Saints’ wide receiver group as they continue to prepare for the remainder of the 2024 season.
Thornton, who played his college football at Baylor, entered the NFL with significant promise, known for his blazing speed and big-play potential. He ran a 4.28-second 40-yard dash at the 2022 NFL Scouting Combine, which positioned him as one of the fastest players in his draft class. However, his time with the Patriots has been marked by inconsistent usage, struggling to carve out a prominent role in a crowded receiving corps that included veterans like Jakobi Meyers and Kendrick Bourne, as well as rookie standout Christian Gonzalez.
In his rookie season with New England, Thornton played in 10 games, starting four, and recorded just 12 receptions for 140 yards and no touchdowns. He showed flashes of his deep-threat ability but was hampered by a lack of opportunities and a Patriots offense that struggled to find consistency in the passing game. Thornton also missed time due to injuries, which limited his development and his impact on the field.
Despite his limited production in New England, Thornton’s raw talent is undeniable. The Saints, currently sitting in the competitive NFC South division, are hoping to tap into that potential as they look to improve their receiving options behind primary targets like Chris Olave and Michael Thomas. With Thomas dealing with injuries in recent years and the Saints seeking more playmaking ability in their offense, Thornton could offer a fresh dynamic to the passing game if he is called up from the practice squad.
The Saints’ decision to sign Thornton to the practice squad is also indicative of their belief in his potential for growth. By joining the practice squad, Thornton will have the opportunity to refine his skills and adjust to the Saints’ offensive system, which could give him a chance to eventually earn a spot on the 53-man roster later in the season.
As the Saints push toward playoff contention, the addition of Tyquan Thornton could prove to be a strategic move to enhance their wide receiver depth and add a new element of speed and explosiveness to their offensive attack. With plenty of season still ahead, all eyes will be on how Thornton develops in New Orleans and whether he can contribute to the Saints’ playoff push.
