Saints carry overseas “business trip” mindset into Paris finale with goal to win

The New Orleans Saints’ push to end their Paris trip “on high note” comes with a clear objective for Sunday, as the franchise prepares for the first NFL game played in France. Coach Kellen Moore framed it as one goal across the travel and promotion, with a win the only outcome that matters.

Running back Alvin Kamara said the chance to be part of history is also a scoreboard opportunity. His message was direct: if New Orleans plays the first American football game in France and comes away victorious, the win becomes part of the story for future teams and fans.

Special teams veteran Ryan Wright described the overseas experience as a business trip by design. In his view, the priority is to find a routine quickly, get past jet lag, and treat the matchup as “another game,” even with the added distractions of being abroad.

The Saints began the trip five days before Sunday after a road victory over the Giants in East Rutherford, New Jersey. Linebacker Pete Werner credited the organization for coordinating travel so the schedule would resemble a normal week, from departure timing through practice preparation.

Even with planning, the team acknowledged the time change is real. Werner said Thursday was the first day he felt fully like himself. Safety Julian Blackmon reported jet lag lingered until Wednesday before he felt adjusted.

The final preparations included at least one positive personnel update. Kicker Daniel Carlson joined the team and worked out Friday, though his travel was delayed because he stayed home for the birth of his wife’s and their fourth child.

New Orleans also entered the week with uncertainty at multiple spots. Right guard Cesar Ruiz (knee) and defensive lineman Nathan Shepherd (illness/rest) were listed as questionable for Sunday. Linebacker Kaden Elliss (calf) was a full participant and said he expected to play after missing the previous three games.