Saints 2026 Training Camp Preview: Punter Turnover Ends with Wright

The Punter Trouble Timeline

Thomas Morstead’s departure after the 2020 season left the New Orleans Saints without a steady hand at punter. Over the next five campaigns the club cycled through four different punters, each delivering a decline in performance. The instability became a glaring weakness, especially when a field position advantage was needed most.

The Saints tried five undrafted rookies before finally opting for a more seasoned option. Their most recent hire, Kai Kroeger, became the fourth different punter in that span, but his numbers in 2025 painted a troubling picture. Even though his gross average looked acceptable at 44.8 yards, his net average of 37.3 yards ranked near the bottom of the NFL.

Kai Kroeger’s Struggles in 2025

Kroeger, who replaced Matthew Hayball the previous offseason, managed just 18 punts inside the opponent’s 20‑yard line—a mere 32.1% average. He also suffered two blocked kicks and rarely generated the power or precision that can swing momentum. Those shortcomings came after a previous two‑year stint by Blake Gillikin, who was the only recent punter to last more than a season.

The Saints decided that the ongoing turnover was unacceptable. In free agency they made a bold move, signing former Minnesota Vikings punter Ryan Wright to a four‑year, $14 million contract. The deal carries a $1.9 million cap hit for the 2026 season, a significant gamble for a position often overlooked in roster building.

Ryan Wright Arrives in New Orleans

At 26, Wright brings four years of NFL experience, all with the Vikings, to the Superdome. His career averages of 47.9 yards gross and 42.5 yards net sit above the league median. Wright has downed 101 punts inside the 20‑yard line over his career, posting a 39.9% touchback rate that suggests reliable field‑position work.

Unlike Kroeger, Wright is a former Tulane Green Wave standout who has already proven he can handle the NFL’s tempo. For now, there is no competition at training camp; the Saints are betting that Wright alone can restore the consistency that has been missing since Morstead’s prime.

Why the Saints Took a Chance on Wright

Punting may not generate headlines, but it can be the difference between a win and a loss, especially in a dome‑friendly division where field position matters. The recent string of under‑performing punters has left the defense exposed, forcing extra possessions and longer drives.

Wright’s signing signals a shift toward stability and professionalism at the position. The Saints are clearly willing to invest heavily in a role that can tip games in their favor when the season grows tight. If he meets the expectations set by his contract, the revolving‑door era will finally come to an end.

This article originally appeared on Saints Wire: Saints 2026 training camp preview: High hopes, more turnover at punter