Former New Orleans Saints defensive tackle Khalen Saunders turned up at the New Orleans Pelicans’ G League tryouts on Saturday, giving the Laketown Squadron a little extra buzz and giving fans another reminder of how athletic he can be.
Saunders, who spent two seasons with the Saints, drew attention on New Orleans social media after showing up for the tryout event as the Squadron continue their move to Kenner this year. He later posted his own tongue-in-cheek update: "So chat i just completed my NBA G League tryout with the Laketown Squadron.
Thru just two games i amassed 2 pts, 2 rebs, 1 assist, 1 steal, 2 turnovers, quad tightness, low back stiffness, and most importantly, 0 fouls. I’d say an overall good day at the office."
That kind of personality made him a favorite during his Saints run. In two seasons in New Orleans, Saunders totaled 100 tackles, two sacks, an interception, four TFLs and four passes broken up.
At 6-foot-0 and 324 pounds during his NFL career, Saunders was one of those players people kept noticing because he moved so well for his size. The Saints even used him in a short-yardage blocking role, which fit the athleticism he flashed on the field.
He likely won’t be cracking the Laketown roster, but the whole scene made for an entertaining day online. Saunders and former teammate Cameron Jordan were joking about it afterward.
The day also offered a look at how Jamahl Mosley is involved around the Squadron. With new coach Brandon "B Great" Demas taking over this offseason in his first year in the role, Mosley was there with him. Demas later called Mosley a "man of the people" on social media.
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