There aren’t any players across the NFL more unique than New Orleans Saints tight end Taysom Hill. Hill, once in the running for starting quarterback, will still find himself taking some snaps from under center in 2022. But the focus of his work will be as a pass-catcher and offensive weapon. His production from the position should help to bolster it, but according to fellow tight end Adam Trautman, his impact is felt far before the team takes the field.
“Taysom in the room is awesome,” Trautman told media after Thursday’s practice session. “Like I said, physically he’s terrific. But mentally, that’s a whole ‘nother level that he brings to the room.”
While big catches, runs and collisions are usually the hallmark of Hill’s game, the impact he is having off the field is noticeable. As a player with quarterback experience, he knows what the passer is looking for from his tight end group. Hill now gets to share that insight on a consistent basis with Trautman, Nick Vannett, Juwan Johnson and other teammates.
Remember, this is new for Hill. While he’s played tight end before, he has mostly been in the quarterback room or splitting time in multiple meetings in previous seasons. Now, he get to study and game prep with the position group and that will likely lead to great production in 2022. Add to that Trautman’s health going into the season, and there is reason for some confidence in a step forward. “I feel much better.” the third-year tight end said. “I came in last camp, I was probably ten pounds less than I usually am.”
The Saints tight ends room did not produce a 300-yard receiver in 2021. Trautman led the way with just 263 receiving yards. Hill should have a positive impact not just with his own production, but by helping to make the other players around him better. Something of which Trautman looks to be on the verge.
