The Saints' Unlikely Hero: Why Michael Heldman Could Be the Next Undrafted Gem
The NFL has a long history of undrafted players defying the odds, and the New Orleans Saints have mastered the art of uncovering these hidden gems. From Pierre Thomas to Taysom Hill, the Saints have a knack for turning overlooked athletes into impactful contributors. So, when Logan Ulrich of NFLTradeRumors.com highlighted Michael Heldman as a rookie to watch, it wasn’t just another name on a list—it was a signal that the Saints might have struck gold again. But what makes Heldman so intriguing? And could he really be the next big thing in New Orleans?
The Bosa Comparison: Flattering, But Fair?
One thing that immediately stands out is the comparison between Heldman and Nick Bosa. Personally, I think this is both a stretch and a testament to Heldman’s potential. Yes, Heldman’s 2025 season at Central Michigan was impressive—10.5 sacks, two forced fumbles, and four batted passes—but let’s not forget that Bosa was a top-three draft pick for a reason. Still, the comparison isn’t entirely off base. Heldman’s athleticism, as evidenced by his 9.9 RAS score, is undeniable. At 6-4 and 270 pounds, he’s a physical specimen with the kind of raw tools that coaches dream about.
What many people don’t realize is that the Bosa comparison isn’t just about stats—it’s about potential. Heldman hasn’t always translated his athleticism into consistent on-field dominance, but that’s where the Saints come in. With Brandon Staley at the helm of the defense, a coach who worked with Joey Bosa in Los Angeles, Heldman has the perfect mentor to refine his game. If you take a step back and think about it, Staley’s experience with elite edge rushers could be the key to unlocking Heldman’s full potential.
The Saints’ Edge Rush Depth: Stronger Than It Looks?
There’s a common misconception that the Saints are set at edge rusher. Chase Young had a career year, and the additions of Tyree Wilson and Anfernee Jennings seem to round out the room. But here’s the thing: depth doesn’t always mean quality. Wilson hasn’t lived up to his top-10 draft billing, Jennings is more of a run-stopper than a pass-rusher, and Carl Granderson has been inconsistent. From my perspective, the Saints’ edge rush situation is far from settled, which is why Heldman’s opportunity is so significant.
What this really suggests is that Heldman isn’t just fighting for a roster spot—he’s competing for a role in a position group that’s crying out for a breakout star. If he can show even a fraction of the promise he displayed at Central Michigan, the Saints will find a place for him. And let’s not forget the looming question of Cam Jordan’s future. If Jordan isn’t re-signed, Heldman’s path to playing time becomes even clearer.
Why Heldman Matters: Beyond the Stats
What makes Heldman particularly fascinating is his story. Undrafted players like him aren’t just athletes—they’re symbols of resilience and determination. The Saints have a history of embracing these players, and it’s not just about their skills. It’s about their mindset. Heldman’s journey from Central Michigan to the NFL is a reminder that talent isn’t always recognized immediately. Sometimes, it takes the right team, the right coach, and the right opportunity to shine.
In my opinion, Heldman’s potential goes beyond his ability to rush the passer. He’s a player who could embody the Saints’ culture of grit and perseverance. If he succeeds, he won’t just be another name on the roster—he’ll be a testament to the power of second chances and the value of hard work.
The Broader Implications: What Heldman’s Success Would Mean
If Heldman does become a contributor for the Saints, it would be more than just a feel-good story. It would reinforce the idea that the NFL draft isn’t the only pathway to success. It would also highlight the Saints’ ability to identify and develop talent that others overlook. This raises a deeper question: Are we too focused on draft status when evaluating players? Heldman’s story challenges us to look beyond the hype and see the potential in players who don’t fit the traditional mold.
A detail that I find especially interesting is how Heldman’s success could impact the Saints’ future draft strategy. If they can consistently find impact players in the undrafted pool, why not allocate more resources to free agency or other areas of need? It’s a shift in thinking that could redefine how teams approach roster construction.
Final Thoughts: Heldman’s Moment to Shine
As we head into the preseason, all eyes will be on Michael Heldman. Will he live up to the Bosa comparisons? Will he secure a spot on the Saints’ roster? Personally, I think he has everything to gain and nothing to lose. The Saints have a history of giving undrafted players a chance, and Heldman has the tools to make the most of it.
If you take a step back and think about it, Heldman’s journey is a reminder that success in the NFL isn’t just about where you start—it’s about where you finish. And for Heldman, that finish could be in the black and gold of the New Orleans Saints, adding his name to the long list of undrafted heroes who defied the odds.
