Anonymous executive has strong take on Saints rookie who will be more important than initially expected to start the season

New Orleans Saints rookie wide receiver Bryce Lance has become even more important than anyone could've imagined when he was drafted in the fourth round of the 2026 NFL Draft. One NFC executive believes he's up for the task. The New Orleans Saints only have fours wide receivers on their active roster entering Week 1's matchup against the Detroit Lions. That makes rookie wide receiver Bryce Lance even more important than anyone could've imagined when he was drafted in the fourth round of the 2026 NFL Draft. Lance figures to be on the field alongside WR No. 1 Chris Olave Sunday in Detroit. The former North Dakota State wideout will be thrusted right into action, and his responsibilities will not dwindle as first round pick Jordyn Tyson will miss the first four weeks of the year on the Reserve/Injured list.It's a tall task for the rookie, but it's one New Orleans can feel confident in him taking on. Lance is making the jump straight from FCS college football to the NFL, which is even tougher than the leap most of his fellow rookies are making this week. But with Tyson being sidelined for the last few weeks, Lance's increased reps have produced very promising results. He caught four passes for 44 yards in two preseason games, and has captured the attention of at least one NFC executive.The executive told The Athletic's Jordan Rodrigue Lance's growth, so far, 'is staggering' and to put stock in his traits going forward. 'Extremely green but growth (so far) is staggering. Highly intelligent, highly coachable. (His college) tape was hard to judge how quickly he could acclimate (to NFL) because he dominated so easily. Bet on (his) traits and makeup to say he would hit whatever ceiling he had.' anonymous nfc executive Via The Athletic A high ceiling was the selling point with Lance, who posted back-to-back 1,000-yard seasons for NDSU from 2024-25, and 25 total touchdowns in those years. He also ranked No. 11 last year among FBS and FCS WRs in yards per reception among those with at least 30 targets. The risk was simply how long it would take for him to reach that ceiling, and what obstacles would be in his way.It's very rare for a player like him to hit the ground running immediately, but he's been more than expected leading up to his regular season debut. New Orleans is certainly counting on it. He's in line for a meaningful role come Sunday. We'll see just how much he's grown over the last five months.