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Darren Sproles was small by most athletic scales but downright diminutive by NFL measures, in height, measuring 5 feet 6 on a good day.

But the running back, who was traded to Philadelphia this offseason, left behind a sizeable role to fill with the New Orleans Saints. And perhaps fortunately for the Saints, he left behind a blueprint on how best to fill it.

Third-year back Travaris Cadet will be one of the players who will attempt to be as impactful on offense and special teams as was Sproles, who had 71 receptions, 53 carries, 29 punt returns and 12 kickoff returns last season, for a combined 1,273 yards and four touchdowns in 15 games.

“I feel like it’s a great opportunity,” said Cadet, who’s seven inches taller than Sproles, and 20 pounds heavier at 210. “Sproles is gone now and that’s in the past. (But) I learned a lot from Sproles while he was here.

“I constantly picked his brain, on a daily basis, trying to get that competitive edge over my opponents – how to attack different techniques, how to approach the game, how to work every day, how to come to work prepared every day and never get complacent, try my best to get better, put in the overtime that needs to be put in.”

Read more: John DeShazier: Saints RB Travaris Cadet working on becoming complete player

the-commish

Between Cadet and Brandin Cooks, I see no reason why Sproles' production from 2013 can't be replaced, and actually increased.

voodooido

Cooks will be in the slot and possible produce the same way Moore did in his big seasons. That would be awesome!

hagan714

my wild card break out player from last year. maybe i jumped the gun by one year. but he is on the bubble and he knows it

billyt81

I don't expect to see Cadet too much this season. Were gonna run power football and use play action to hit Cooks, Graham, Stills, Morgan running deep. Also I bet lots of bubble screens to Cooks. Now Graham is lined up in slot and blocking a corner on a screen.

hagan714

If i was a bird on Cadets shoulder i would be chirping the phrase

"BLITZ PICKUP"

If Cadet wants on the field that is his ticket. None of the backs besides PT have shown they can handle the job.

Rugby Saint II

I may be the only person that thinks Cadet hit his wall last season.

Danno

I don't know how he could have hit the wall last season when he wasn't really given the opportunity to hit any wall.

He'll be given every opportunity this season to prove himself.

Jack Vegas

I have a feeling that Payton has just been waiting to get Cadet into a bigger role. The way he talks about him, I think he has a good chance of getting a lot of playing time this year.

halloween 65

Cadet? If he does make it, he better be good. So far there are 3 other backs on the roster that do produce, we'll get to see this season.