Five “camp bodies” with a good shot of making the 53 man roster

Whether it’s Kasim Edebali, Isa Abdul-Quddus, Brian Dixon, Willie Snead or Bobby Richardson – there always seems to be a couple guys every year that make the 53 man roster and become contributors. And it’s often times not someone we expect. Some of us saw Snead and/or Richardson happening, yes, but Edebali, Abdul-Quddus and Dixon blindsided almost everyone, media included. So I’m not going to pick an obvious one like Landon Turner. Practically everyone envisions him making the team. But here’s the five guys that might currently be “no name camp bodies” that could surprise you.

5. Tommylee Lewis, WR/KR

The undrafted rookie from Northern Illinois is already going to be a Sean Payton favorite based on where he’s from. He ran a 4.5 40 at his Pro Day. Let’s be honest, though. At 5’7″ he’s not making this team as a receiver. His four kickoff returns for touchdowns during his college career are appealing, though. And if you remember Joe Morgan, all it takes is a couple big plays in preseason. He’s battling with Marcus Murphy and Travaris Cadet as much as anyone for an NFL job. He could be an explosive return man.

4. Jimmy Pruitt, CB

All the talk has been reserved for Damian Swann and P. J. Williams as the primary backup corners. But Pruitt comes with a reputation as an excellent cover guy that rarely gets beat. He’s also got ideal size the Saints like at this position.

3. Chris Manhertz, TE

He’s such an intriguing prospect with his size, basketball history and potential. There’s some time to task with him and the Saints like him. Doubtful he’s the next Jimmy Graham but he was a stud rebounder in colleger. The Saints are 3 deep at tight end but watch for Manhertz if an injury happens.

2. Dillon Lee, LB

Special teams are how you make the back end of a roster and Lee was a beast on special teams at Alabama for three years. He didn’t get a combine invite but stole the show at the Alabama Pro Day with a very strong performance. He’s big, fast and athletic.

1. Cyril Lemon, G (pictured above)

I was impressed with what I saw from him last year and the Saints saw enough to bring him back. Turner, Jack Allen and the new prospects are getting all the talk but Lemon is a year ahead of all those guys in the system.