A Closer Look at New Saints WR Jontre Kirklin

Louisiana native and LSU product could have a legitimate shot at a role on the Saints roster.

The New Orleans Saints added WR Jontre Kirklin this weekend. The move was announced amid a string of injuries to their offensive skill positions that included WR Rashid Shaheed (groin), WR Tre'Quan Smith (groin), and RB Eno Benjamin (achilles). It isn't believed that the injuries to Olave and Shaheed are serious, but Benjamin will miss the year.

Kirklin, 24, is a graduate of Lutcher High School near New Orleans and played collegiately at LSU. He was a cornerback for his first two years at LSU before switching to receiver during their 2019 national championship season. Kirklin even served as an emergency quarterback during his final game with the Tigers in the 2022 Texas Bowl.

In three years as a wideout with LSU, Kirklin caught 20 passes for 313 yards and three touchdowns. He also rushed 13 times for 67 yards, served as a backup kick returner, and completed 7 of 11 passes for 138 yards with three touchdowns and two interceptions.

Despite a 4.52 40, 11'5" broad jump, and 43" vertical at his Pro Day, Kirklin was not selected in the 2022 NFL Draft. He was signed as an undrafted rookie by the Arizona Cardinals, but was released during training camp. 

Feb 26, 2023; Houston Roughnecks receiver Jontre Kirklin (13) reaches for a pass while being covered by Arlington Renegades defensive back De Vante Bausby (41). Mandatory Credit: Thomas Shea-USA TODAY Sports

Kirklin landed with the Houston Roughnecks of the XFL this past spring. Over the beginning of the season, Kirklin was among the XFL leaders with 15 receptions for 253 yards and four scores in four games. He also threw a 49-yard touchdown pass. However, he'd suffer a chest injury that kept him out the remainder of the XFL season. 

At 6-foot and 184-Lbs., Kirklin has flashed solid deep speed and excellent body control on sideline routes. He also has some experience returning kicks, an area that could give him an inside track for a roster spot. Rashid Shaheed was the primary returner for the Saints last season, but is expected to have a much bigger offensive role.

New Orleans ranked 16th in passing production last season. Chris Olave had an outstanding rookie year and Shaheed was a surprise breakout contributor. However, Michael Thomas played in just three games and has missed 40 of the last 50 contests because of injuries. Aside from those three, Kirklin should have an opportunity for a job.

Aug 21, 2022; Arizona Cardinals wide receiver Jontre Kirklin (31) catches a touchdown pass over Baltimore Ravens safety Ar'Darius Washington (29). © Joe Rondone/The Republic / USA TODAY NETWORK

Kirklin is competing for a wideout spot that looks wide open at the back half of the depth chart. Chris Olave, Michael Thomas, and Shaheed are all but guaranteed the top three jobs. After that, Kirklin will look to beat out Bryan Edwards, rookie A.T. Perry, Tre'Quan Smith, Shaq Davis, Keith Kirkwood, Keke Coutee, Lynn Bowden, and Kawaan Baker for the final two or three spots.

The Saints have historically had great success with undrafted or late-round gems at receiver. Shaheed is the most recent example, but other unheralded successes include Marques Colston, Lance Moore, Eric Martin, Willie Snead, and Deonte Harty. Jontre Kirklin may look to have an uphill climb to make the roster, but looks to add his name to this prestigious list.