Early Life & Background

Bub Means was born and raised in Lovejoy, a small city in the southern suburbs of Atlanta, Georgia, known for its tight-knit community and strong football culture. Growing up in Lovejoy, Means was immersed in the game from an early age, as the city has produced several notable football players who have gone on to play at the collegiate and professional levels. The local high school football program, Lovejoy High School, has a reputation for developing talented athletes, and Means’ upbringing in this environment played a significant role in shaping his athletic foundation and competitive drive.

Means’ early life was marked by his dedication to football, though details about his family background and upbringing remain scarce in public records. His name, “Bub,” is a nickname that suggests a strong connection to his community or family, a common tradition in Southern football culture. While specific anecdotes about his childhood are limited, his journey from a small town to the NFL draft suggests a relentless work ethic and a commitment to improving his craft. Growing up in a football-rich area likely provided him with opportunities to hone his skills, whether through youth leagues, high school football, or local showcase events that attract college recruiters.

Means’ physical attributes—listed at 6’2” and 215 pounds—were evident early in his development, making him a standout prospect as he progressed through high school. His size, combined with his athletic background, positioned him for success at the next level. The discipline and toughness instilled in him during his formative years would later become defining traits of his playing style in college and, eventually, in the NFL.

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High School Career

Bub Means attended Lovejoy High School, where he began to establish himself as a dominant force on the football field. Lovejoy High has a storied football program, with a history of producing NFL-caliber talent, and Means quickly became one of its most prominent players.

As a high school athlete, Means was known for his combination of size, speed, and physicality, which allowed him to excel as a wide receiver. His 6’2”, 215-pound frame made him a matchup problem for opposing defenses, and his ability to dominate in the passing game earned him recognition from regional and national recruiting services. While specific statistics from his high school career are not widely documented, accounts from local media and scouting reports suggest that Means was a multi-threat playmaker. He was reportedly a key target for Lovejoy’s offense, often drawing double teams due to his size and playmaking ability.

Means’ high school career also included highlights from track and field, where his athleticism was on full display. He competed in events such as the long jump and sprints, showcasing his explosive speed and agility. His participation in multiple sports likely contributed to his overall athletic development, reinforcing his ability to excel in the high-stakes environment of Friday night football.

Scouting reports from his senior year described Means as a “raw but talented” prospect with a significant upside. His combination of size and athleticism made him an attractive target for college programs, particularly those in the SEC and Power Five conferences, where his physical tools could be maximized in their spread and pro-style offenses. His high school coach at Lovejoy praised his work ethic and leadership, noting that his dedication to the game set him apart from his peers.

Despite his potential, Means was not a five-star recruit heading into the college recruiting process. This suggests that while he was highly regarded in Georgia high school football circles, he may not have been heavily pursued by the most elite college programs early in his recruitment. Instead, he likely attracted interest from mid-major programs and those looking for developmental projects with high-upside physical traits. His eventual draft selection in the fifth round of the 2024 NFL Draft indicates that his collegiate career was a critical factor in his rise from a regional prospect to a draftable talent.

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College Career

Bub Means attended University of Louisville.

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NFL Draft

Bub Means entered the 2024 NFL Draft as one of the more intriguing wide receiver prospects from the mid-major college ranks. His physical profile—6’2”, 215 pounds, with the size and speed to project as an NFL contributor—made him an appealing target for teams in need of developmental talent at the receiver position.

The drafting process for Means began with a strong showing at the NFL Scouting Combine, where he participated in drills that highlighted his athletic traits. Though specific combine numbers (such as 40-yard dash time, vertical jump, or broad jump) are not publicly available, scouts noted his smooth stride, body control, and ability to separate from defenders in route-running exercises. His 6’2” frame and long arms were frequently cited as assets that could translate to dominance in contested-catch situations at the next level.

During the draft process, Means was projected as a developmental prospect with a ceiling that depended largely on his route-running refinement and ability to process NFL-level offensive schemes. Scouts compared him to receivers who entered the league with similar size-speed combinations, such as Minnesota Vikings wideout Jalen Nailor, who was drafted in the sixth round in 2021. Like Nailor, Means was viewed as a player who could contribute in the red zone and as a deep-ball target but would require time to polish his nuances as a route-runner and in situational football.

The New Orleans Saints selected Means with the 170th overall pick in the fifth round of the 2024 NFL Draft, adding him to a receiving corps that already featured veteran presence in Chris Olave and Rasheed Shaheed, as well as emerging talents like A.T. Perry and Khalen Williams. The selection of Means by the Saints signaled their confidence in his potential to develop into a vertical threat and red-zone weapon, particularly within their offensive scheme under head coach Dennis Allen. New Orleans has emphasized adding young, athletic receivers in recent drafts, and Means fit that mold as a high-upside project with notable physical gifts.

General manager Eliot Wolf acknowledged the developmental nature of the pick, stating that the Saints were excited about Means’ “physical profile and high ceiling” and believed he could grow into a meaningful role in their passing attack. The Saints’ investment in Means also reflected their strategy of drafting late-round gems, a philosophy that has yielded contributors like Juwan Johnson and Nick Eason in recent years.

Means officially signed his rookie contract with New Orleans on May 9, 2024, a standard four-year deal with a team option for a fifth year. Financial terms were not disclosed, but his draft slot placed him in the approximate range of $3.5 to $4 million in total guaranteed money, with escalators based on playing time and performance.

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Professional Career

As of the 2024 season, Bub Means has not yet played a regular-season snap in the NFL. His professional career is in its earliest stages, with the New Orleans Saints selecting him as a developmental wide receiver with long-term potential. His journey to the field will depend on several factors, including training camp performance, preseason evaluations, and the team’s assessment of his readiness to contribute on Sundays.

Means joined the Saints’ offseason program in the spring of 2024, participating in rookie minicamps and organized team activities (OTAs) as he acclimated to the professional level. His transition from college to the NFL is expected to focus on refining his route-running, learning the intricate playbook, and adjusting to the speed and physicality of NFL defensive backs. Given his limited public college background, there is naturally some uncertainty about his exact skill set, but his physical traits suggest he will be groomed for a role that maximizes his size and athleticism.

The Saints have a history of developing late-round receivers into contributors, and Means will likely be given every opportunity to earn a roster spot in training camp. His ability to win contested catches and create separation in the intermediate and deep passing game will be critical areas of focus. If he shows progress in these areas, he could emerge as a candidate for special teams roles in addition to his development as a wide receiver.

One potential pathway for Means’ early contributions could be as a deep threat in third-and-long situations or as a red-zone target. His size and leaping ability make him a natural fit for jump-ball opportunities, a skill that could be particularly valuable in an offense that already utilizes vertical concepts. Quarterback Derek Carr’s tenure with the Saints suggests a willingness to target larger receivers in the end zone, which bodes well for Means’ long-term outlook.

However, the path to meaningful playing time in New Orleans’ competitive wide receiver room is not guaranteed. The Saints currently have a deep group of receivers, including veterans Chris Olave and Rasheed Shaheed, as well as rising stars like A.T. Perry. This competition means Means will need to distinguish himself in camp and throughout the preseason to secure a spot on the 53-man roster. His ability to learn quickly, master the playbook, and outperform rookies drafted after him (such as sixth-round pick Blake Watson) will be key factors in his rookie-season trajectory.

Injuries or performance by other young receivers could also accelerate Means’ path to the field. If he shows steady improvement during practices and preseason games, he may earn a role on the practice squad initially, providing him with additional developmental reps under the guidance of the Saints’ coaching staff. Over the next one to two seasons, if he continues to progress, he could emerge as a rotational receiver or special teams contributor, with the potential to grow into a more significant role if given the opportunity.

Long-term, Means’ NFL career will hinge on his ability to refine his technique, adapt to defensive schemes, and develop chemistry with his quarterback. The Saints’ coaching staff will play a pivotal role in his development, and his progression will be closely monitored as part of the organization’s emphasis on building a sustainable passing attack. Given the physical demands of the NFL, Means’ durability and work ethic will also be scrutinized as he transitions from being a draft project to a potential contributor.

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Playing Style & Strengths

Bub Means enters the NFL as a wide receiver with an intriguing blend of size, athleticism, and developmental potential. His playing style is defined by several key strengths, which scouts and analysts believe can translate to success at the professional level if properly refined.

One of Means’ most notable attributes is his size. Listed at 6’2” and 215 pounds, he possesses the frame of an outside receiver who can dominate matchups with smaller defensive backs. His length and wingspan give him a natural advantage in contested-catch situations, a trait that is highly valued in the NFL, particularly in the red zone and on third-down conversions. Scouts have noted his ability to high-point the football and make plays above the coverage, a skill that could make him a reliable option for his quarterback in critical moments.

Means’ athleticism is another cornerstone of his playing style. While specific combine metrics are not publicly available, evaluators have described him as having smooth acceleration and a long stride that allows him to separate from defenders downfield. His background in track and field likely contributed to his explosive burst and body control, which are essential for winning contested-catch battles and creating yards after the catch. His ability to stretch the field vertically makes him an ideal target in play-action and deep-ball concepts, a role that the Saints have emphasized in recent years.

Route-running is an area where Means has significant room for growth, but his physical tools provide a foundation upon which he can build. Scouts have praised his ability to sell routes and create separation with his size and speed, though he will need to refine his footwork and sharpness to become a consistent contributor in the NFL. His development in this area will be closely monitored by the Saints’ coaching staff, as precise route-running is essential for securing a role in the passing game.

Means also projects as a willing blocker, a skill that adds value to his overall profile. Linebacker-sized receivers who can contribute on special teams and as blockers in run-heavy sets are increasingly valued in the modern NFL, and Means’ physicality suggests he can fulfill that role. His ability to contribute on special teams, particularly as a gunner on punt and kickoff coverage units, could provide him with an early pathway to playing time.

One of the most compelling aspects of Means’ playing style is his potential as a mismatch creator. In the Saints’ offense, which frequently utilizes 11 personnel and spread formations, Means’ ability to line up outside, in the slot, or in the backfield presents schematic challenges for opposing defenses. If he can refine his quickness and route-running to complement his size, he could become a versatile weapon who forces defensive coordinators to scheme specifically to contain him.

Defensively, Means projects to be a liability in coverage due to his size and lack of documented experience in man-coverage schemes at the collegiate level. However, his presence could be maximized in zone defenses where he can use his size to out-leap defenders or sit in open windows. The Saints’ zone-heavy scheme under Dennis Allen could provide a natural fit for Means’ skill set as he develops.

Ultimately, Means’ playing style is that of a developmental project with a high ceiling. His physical tools are undeniable, but his success in the NFL will depend on his ability to refine his technique, learn the nuances of NFL route-running, and adapt to the speed of professional competition. If he can harness his athleticism and size effectively, he has the potential to become a valuable contributor in the Saints’ passing attack.

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Personal Life

Details about Bub Means’ personal life are scarce in public records, as he has maintained a relatively low profile outside of his football career. Born in Lovejoy, Georgia, Means’ upbringing in a tight-knit community likely shaped his values and work ethic, traits that have been evident in his approach to the game.

Means’ nickname, “Bub,” is a traditional Southern moniker that often reflects a connection to family or community. While specific information about his family members is not available, his journey from a small-town high school to the NFL draft suggests a strong support system behind him. The emphasis on community in Southern football culture often fosters a sense of loyalty and perseverance, qualities that have been hallmarks of successful late-round draft picks.

Off the field, Means has not been prominently featured in media interviews or social media platforms, indicating a preference for keeping his personal life private. This approach is not uncommon among rookie players, particularly those who are still establishing themselves in the professional ranks. As he transitions to the NFL, Means may become more visible in team-related media obligations, particularly if he earns playing time or gains attention for on-field contributions.

Given the physical demands of the NFL, Means likely prioritizes recovery, nutrition, and film study to maximize his development. His early professional career will require a rigorous routine to prepare for the rigors of game day, and his ability to balance the mental and physical aspects of the sport will be critical to his long-term success.

As Means grows into his role with the Saints, he may become more active in community initiatives or charitable endeavors, particularly in his home state of Georgia. Many NFL players from smaller towns use their platform to give back to their communities, and Means may follow a similar path as his career progresses. For now, however, his focus remains on establishing himself in the league and earning the trust of his coaches and teammates.

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Legacy & Future Outlook

As a fifth-round pick in the 2024 NFL Draft, Bub Means’ legacy in the NFL is still unwritten. His draft position places him in a precarious but opportunistic position: as a developmental prospect with untapped potential, his success hinges on his ability to adapt, improve, and carve out a role in one of the league’s most competitive franchises.

Means joins a Saints organization that has demonstrated a commitment to developing young receivers, evidenced by the progression of players like Juwan Johnson and A.T. Perry. His path to relevance will likely follow a similar trajectory, requiring a blend of patience, work ethic, and on-field development. If he can fulfill his potential, Means could become a reliable red-zone and deep-ball threat for the Saints, particularly in an offense that emphasizes play-action and vertical passing concepts.

The future outlook for Means is one of cautious optimism. His physical tools—size, speed, and athleticism—position him as a player with a high ceiling, but his rookie season will be critical in determining whether he can transition from a draft project to a contributor. The Saints’ crowded receiver room means Means will need to distinguish himself quickly, whether through special teams play, preseason performance, or in-season development.

In the short term, Means’ primary objective will be to secure a spot on the active roster or practice squad. If he earns a role as a rotational receiver or depth asset, he could begin to accumulate experience and build chemistry with his quarterback. Over the next two to three seasons, if he shows sustained improvement, he could emerge as a more integral part of the Saints’ passing attack.

Long-term, Means’ legacy will be defined by his ability to overcome the challenges of transitioning from college to the NFL. Late-round draft picks often face steep odds, but history has shown that with the right development and opportunity, players like Means can exceed expectations. If he can refine his route-running, improve his consistency, and stay healthy, he has the potential to become a valuable weapon for the Saints and a testament to the value of late-round selections in building a competitive roster.

For the Saints, drafting Means reflects a broader strategy of identifying and developing high-upside talent, even in the later rounds. His inclusion in the 2024 class underscores the organization’s belief in its scouting process and its ability to find hidden gems. For Means himself, the journey ahead is one of proving doubters wrong and turning potential into production.

As he embarks on his NFL career, Bub Means stands at the beginning of what could be a compelling story—one of perseverance, growth, and the pursuit of excellence. The next chapter in his legacy will be written on the football field, where his physical gifts and determination will be put to the test.