Devaughn Vele Excelled In Saints Debut Against Lions
The wide receiver recorded 69 yards and a touchdown during a 21-7 loss to the Detroit Lions.
Updated on Sept. 19, 2026 in Football
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New Orleans Saints receiver Devaughn Vele made an immediate impact in his first game of the season, catching seven passes for 69 yards and one touchdown. The 6-foot-5 target emerged as a key offensive weapon, playing 91% of snaps during the game against the Detroit Lions.
Why it matters
Vele has ascended to the role of the primary secondary wide receiver for the team. This increased workload comes as teammate Jordyn Tyson remains sidelined on injured reserve.
Devaughn Vele played 91% of offensive snaps and recorded seven receptions for 69 yards and one touchdown. His performance included a critical 31-yard reception in the fourth quarter.
The players
Devaughn Vele
A 6-foot-5 wide receiver who previously played for the Denver Broncos before being acquired by the New Orleans Saints in a trade.
Jordyn Tyson
A wide receiver for the New Orleans Saints who is currently on the injured reserve list while recovering from a hamstring injury.
The details
Vele utilized his 6-foot-5 frame to box out defenders and gain leverage throughout the game. He notably adjusted his route to an inside release before bending back toward the sideline to secure a pivotal 31-yard reception.
Timeline
Vele earned honorable mention All-Pac 12 honors in 2022.
He began drawing consistent targets in mid-November.
He recorded 69 yards against the Detroit Lions in September 2026.
The Saints play the Baltimore Ravens during the upcoming week.
Season Trajectory
Vele's rapid emergence as a primary receiving threat fundamentally shifts the Saints' offensive personnel strategy for the remainder of the season. His role expansion provides a necessary buffer for the offense while waiting for key depth pieces to return from injury.
Fantasy managers should prioritize Vele as a high-volume target following his 91% snap count against Detroit. The receiver is now a central fixture in the Saints' passing scheme heading into the matchup against Baltimore.
The takeaway
Vele has proven that his height and route-running ability are essential tools for an offense dealing with injuries. His ability to secure 31-yard gains demonstrates that he is a reliable option for the Saints' future games.
What happens next
The New Orleans Saints are scheduled to compete against the Baltimore Ravens in the upcoming week.
Further reading
For more on the team's depth chart, check out our New Orleans Football coverage.
Source note: This article includes information reported by The Advocate.
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