7 Saints players under pressure in first preseason game vs. Jaguars

Most of the New Orleans Saints' starters are expected to sit out Saturday's preseason opener against the Jacksonville Jaguars. That will give the team's reserves and roster-bubble candidates an extended opportunity to make their cases. Some players have more riding on the game than others. Here are seven Saints under the most pressure to perform in the preseason opener.

Spencer Rattler has strengthened his hold on the backup quarterback job throughout training camp. Wilson needs to operate the offense efficiently and avoid costly mistakes to begin closing the gap. The Saints brought in a fourth training camp quarterback, Hunter Dekkers, who is expected to play at some point on Saturday.

Provided his back injury doesn't keep him out of this game, Miller needs to prove he still belongs in the Saints' crowded backfield. The former third-round pick is returning from a torn ACL and entering the final year of his rookie contract. If he cannot perform, Miller could be a cut candidate.

Means has made plays in camp — and he made a big one in the joint practice with the Jaguars — but rookies Barion Brown and Bryce Lance have generated more momentum thus far. He needs to produce offensively while also demonstrating that he can contribute consistently on special teams.

Smyth made 12 of 16 field-goal attempts after taking over the starting job last season. Still, the Saints brought in competition. Every preseason kick will matter as he attempts to hold off UFL standout Tanner Brown.

Brown earned his opportunity after a strong UFL season. A few missed kicks from Smyth in recent practices have opened that door for Brown. Can he capitalize?

The Saints acquired Wilson during April's NFL Draft to give the former top-10 pick a fresh start. Saturday's preseason game should give him plenty of snaps and opportunities to show that his physical tools can produce consistent pressure.

If Rechsteiner cannot produce in the preseason after already facing a six-game regular-season suspension, he'll face an incredibly difficult path to make the initial 53-man roster. The undrafted rookie must now convince the Saints that he's worth keeping around and developing into a future offensive weapon.

This article originally appeared on Saints Wire: 7 Saints players under pressure in first preseason game vs. Jaguars