Derick E. Hingle-USA TODAY Sports
The New Orleans Saints clinched the sixth seed in the NFC playoffs after they blew out the Tampa Bay Buccaneers 42-17. The Saints’ offense was firing on all cylinders as Drew Brees got numerous players involved. One player that shined was rookie wide receiver Kenny Stills.
Stills only had one catch, but it was a monster catch, that he hauled in for 76 yards and the touchdown. The catch happened at the end of the second quarter and Brees connected with Stills, who was virtually uncovered and made the easy catch for a touchdown reception.
Stills has made a big impact in just his rookie season and he figures to be a big part of the Saints’ future. Stills finished the regular season with 31 catches for 565 yards and four touchdowns. Stills has proven to be a great deep threat as he has made some huge plays all season. The rookie sensation only had 50 targets in the 15 games that he played, but he has made the most of his opportunities.
The Saints have to be pleased with the season that Stills had and they will have to make a decision on what his role will be going forward. At 6-feet tall, Stills has great size for such a speedy receiver and he could beat out some of the veteran receivers for more playing time next season. I could see Stills securing the No. 2 receiver position as he complements wide receiver Marques Colston very nicely.
Stills will now get the rare opportunity of appearing in the playoffs in his rookie season and you can be sure that he will be able to make one or two big plays next week. The Saints really did their homework when they decided to draft Stills in the fifth round and the rookie has been great all season and should enjoy a good NFL career.
Alejandro Aviles is the Featured Writer for the New Orleans Saints at Rant Sports @aaviles312
