May 31, 2024

New Orleans Saints tight end Juwan Johnson finished the 2023 season as the number 26 tight end in PPR leagues and number 24 in standard leagues with 37 catches, 368 yards, and four touchdowns. The 27-year-old showcased his ability to move downfield at an above-average rate compared to other tight ends last season with a 9.0% of team air yards and 7.2 yards of average depth per target, which place him in the 70th and 69th percentile at his position, respectively. However, while he was given the opportunity to move downfield more often, he posted a poor 62.7% catch rate, which is reflected in his box scores throughout the season. He logged only six games where he had at least three catches and seven games where he had two receptions or less. However, Johnson will undergo foot surgery, which will keep him sidelined for all of training camp, preseason, and potentially the start of the regular season. Besides standout wide receiver Chris Olave and veteran running back Alvin Kamara, the Saints lack proven playmakers in their passing attack, which could open the door for Johnson to contribute in 2024. The former Oregon Duck will be a safety valve for veteran quarterback Derek Carr and will again be given opportunities to succeed in a poor passing attack and could be worth a flier late in your drafts in deeper leagues if he is able to recover in time before Week 1. If Johnson is not ready for the start of the season, Foster Moreau and Taysom Hill are strong candidates to serve as the TE1 in New Orleans.--Andy Smith