New Orleans Saints wide receiver Devaughn Vele expects the upcoming NFL regular-season game at the Stade de France to feel like a home contest, despite the venue being located more than 7,000 kilometers from the team’s usual base at the Caesars Superdome. Vele, 28, shared his outlook during the team’s “Meet the Saints” media series ahead of the October 25 matchup against the Pittsburgh Steelers, which is scheduled for 14:30 local time.
Atmosphere in Paris
Although the Saints are technically playing away from their home stadium, Vele expressed confidence that the connection between the franchise and its international fanbase will create a supportive environment in Paris. “I know that we are one of the most appreciated teams over there,” Vele said. “I have the feeling that it will be like a home game for us. We should feel a lot of affection and see a strong presence of our supporters. It is up to us to live up to it and offer them a great show.”
Maintaining Professional Focus
Vele dismissed the notion that the long-distance travel or the loss of a home game at the Caesars Superdome would serve as a competitive disadvantage for New Orleans. He emphasized that the logistics remain a shared challenge for both organizations involved. “I don’t think it’s a disadvantage. The other team also has to travel,” Vele noted. “We don’t really look at how many home or away games we have. Whether we play at home, in Paris, or in New York, it changes nothing: we have a game to play. Our game plan and our mindset remain the same.”
Introducing NFL Football to New Fans
The matchup at the Stade de France represents a rare opportunity to showcase American football to a segment of the audience attending their first live NFL game. Vele described the prospect as an exciting responsibility for the players. “The sport is not as big in every country, and this meeting gives us the opportunity to show this American sport that so many people find spectacular and fun,” he said. “We want to play for the French fans and show them how exciting this sport can be.”
Vele Highlights Chris Olave as the Best Player to Watch
When asked what newcomers should look for during the game, Vele highlighted the playmaking ability of his teammate, Chris Olave. “We are the ones who catch the ball and try to make spectacular plays,” Vele explained. “Chris Olave is the best player to watch, in my opinion. He is one of the best in the league and is capable of creating something from nothing.” Vele also encouraged spectators to pay attention to the physicality of the game, noting the contributions of the running backs, tight ends, offensive line, and the defensive units.
Developing as a Wide Receiver
Standing 1.96 meters tall, Vele addressed perceptions regarding his playing style, emphasizing that his contributions extend beyond his physical stature. He noted that he has focused on technical route running to ensure he is not viewed as a one-dimensional player. “I knew I wouldn’t be as fast as Chris Olave or some receivers capable of simply running past defenders,” Vele said. “The quality of my routes had to allow me to stand out and get open.”
Vele’s approach is underpinned by an aggressive mentality when competing for contested balls. “It’s mostly a matter of mentality. You have to assume that you must retrieve the ball, regardless of the circumstances or what the defender is trying to do,” he added. Through the first three games of the season, Vele has recorded 15 receptions for 172 yards and one touchdown.
Game Details
The matchup between the New Orleans Saints and the Pittsburgh Steelers is set for Sunday, October 25, at 14:30 local time at the Stade de France.
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