With the 71st overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft, the New Orleans Saints drafted running back Kendre Miller from TCU. Ten picks later, the Tennessee Titans selected Tulane running back Tyjae Spears.
The pick caused some uproar from Saints fans. They wanted the local product to add depth at RB for their offense.
Apparently, the Saints overlooking Spears also made him a bit emotional as well. He was hoping to play for his lifelong fandom after he grew up in the New Orleans area.
Titans RB Tyjae Spears says Saints broke his heart during 2023 NFL Draft
"I ain't gonna lie - I was so hurt." -- Tyjae Spears on the Saints not drafting him
New Orleans probably regrets their decision at this point. Miller got hurt on the first day of 2024 training camp and has not returned to the practice field. That injury comes after he played in just eight games as a rookie in 2023.
As for Spears, he was a dynamic, change of pace runner for the Titans last season as Derrick Henry's backup. He totaled 453 rushing yards and 385 receiving yards as a rookie. His numbers were impressive, while Miller struggled to stay healthy.
Dennis Allen has remained frustrated with Miller's availability during this offseason. On multiple occasions, he has noted how they cannot evaluate him if he cannot practice.
The decision to choose Miller over Spears may haunt the Saints for years to come if the running back depth does not excel for the black and gold.
Spears remains optimistic about his future with Tennessee. The idea of playing for the Saints will probably always linger in the back of his mind, though.
New Orleans plays Tennessee to finish the teams' preseason slates on Sunday.
