Martin Emerson Jr. competes for starting role with Saints after backup selection

Martin Emerson Jr. has been recognized on ESPN's All-Backup Team at cornerback for the New Orleans Saints. Competing for a starting position at training camp, Emerson is currently behind Kool-Aid McKinstry on the depth chart. Emerson's career was impacted by a torn Achilles prior to the 2025 season, but he previously performed well with the Cleveland Browns, registering 29 passes defensed and four interceptions in his first two seasons. The Saints signed him following the loss of key veteran starters Alontae Taylor and Paulson Adebo, and he has the opportunity to secure a prominent role if he demonstrates recovery from his injury this summer.

• 5:07 PMYahoo Sports — Saints CB makes ESPN's All-Backup Team, but could he win starting job?