Johnny

Patrick

The Saints let Tracy Porter and Leigh Torrence go in free agency largely because they believe Patrick is ready to cover the slot -- Porter’s old role. Patrick made just six tackles in nine appearances last season, primarily playing special teams. This year, the Saints will count on Patrick to cover the likes of Preston Parker, Harry Douglas, and Joe Adams in the NFC South.

Patrick couldn’t put any weight on the leg while being helped off by Saints trainers. Newly acquired cornerback Jerome Murphy will be thrown into the fire. New Orleans is already missing starter Jabari Greer.

The 2011 third-rounder was waived on Tuesday. It bodes poorly for Patrick’s future that a team as talent deficient as the Saints on defense would waive a day-two pick less than two years after the fact — especially in February — but he’s still only 24. He should compete for a spot on special teams in Chargers camp.

Just two years removed from being a third-round pick, Patrick was due only $555,000, but could never establish himself as a starter. That’s despite the fact that the Saints boasted one of the worst defenses in league history last season, providing ample opportunity for young players to step up. Patrick was relentlessly burned in coverage when he did take the field. He’ll be up against it to crack someone’s 53-man roster in camp.

He also injured his jaw in Thursday’s preseason game. The 2011 Saints third-rounder is in the mix for nickel duties. He’s week to week.

Patrick was claimed off waivers from the Saints last February and appeared in 13 games for the Chargers this season, making 38 tackles and one interception. He started four games as the Chargers were trying to figure out a corner combination that worked. Patrick has one year left on his rookie contract. CB Marcus Cromartie was promoted from the practice squad in a corresponding move.

A 2011 third-rounder of the Saints, Patrick was claimed off waivers in February 2013. He went on to appear in 13 games, making four starts, before landing on injured reserve with an ankle injury. Patrick’s 484 snaps last season were the most of his career, but he remained ineffective. He’ll likely have to settle for No. 4/5 corner duties and special teams in 2014.

Patrick, 25, is a slot corner by trade. The 2011 Saints third-round pick made four starts last season before going on I.R. with an ankle injury. Patrick will compete for a backup job and contribute on special teams.

It’s Patrick’s third concussion since the preseason. He can be safely ruled out for Week 12, and is a candidate for injured reserve. The Chargers’ No. 3 cornerback, Patrick has graded out poorly in Pro Football Focus’ ratings, but so has every other Bolts corner.

Getting cut from arguably the league’s worst cornerback group isn’t a good sign for Patrick, the former third-round pick of the Saints.