SB Nation - Adrian Arrington

New Orleans Saints Announce Roster Cuts

Saintsational — Sat, 05 Sep 2009 22:06:59 -0000

The Times-Pic has just released the full list of New Orleans Saints players who were cut today. Including Joey Harrington and Adrian Arrington, whose names were released earlier today, those players are:

Position	Player
WR	Courtney Roby
WR	Skyler Green
WR	Matt Simon
RB	P.J. Hill
RB	Herb Donaldson
LB	Anthony Waters
DT	DeMario Pressley
G	Tim Duckworth
CB	Danny Gorrer
DT	Early Heyman
TE	Martrez Milner
TE	Jermey Parnell
DE	Paul Spicer
G/T	Anthony Davis
T	Michael Brown
C	Digger Bujnoch
G	Nate Bennett
S	Chip Vaughn placed on IR

The only surprises here are the release of Paul Spicer, DeMario Pressley and Anthony Waters. Can't say we didn't see Chip Vaughn being placed on IR. He's just missed too much time for a rookie this pre-season. Chris Reis, Jonathan Casillas, Buck Ortega, Leigh Torrence and Rod Harper all survived the cut and have made the squad.

Here's a look at how the 53-man roster looks now:

Offense

*Position*	*Player*	*Player*	*Player*	*Player*	*Player*	*Player*
QB	Drew Brees	Mark Brunell
RB	Pierre Thomas	Reggie Bush	Mike Bell	Lynell Hamilton
FB	Heath Evans
WR	Marques Colston	Robert Meachem	Lance Moore	Devery Henderson	Rod Harper
TE	Jeremy Shockey	Darnell Dinkins	Buck Ortega	David Thomas
C	Jonathan Goodwin	Nick Leckey
G	Carl Nicks	Jamar Nesbit	Jahri Evans
T	Jammal Brown	Jon Stinchcomb	Zach Strief	Jermon Bushrod

Defense

*Position*	*Player*	*Player*	*Player*	*Player*	*Player*	*Player*	*Player*
DE	Will Smith	Charles Grant	Bobby McCray	Jeff Charleston	Anthony Hargrove
DT	Sedrick Ellis	Kendrick Clancy	Remi Ayodele
LB	Jonathan Vilma	Scott Fujita	Scott Shanle	Jo-Lonn Dunbar	Jonathan Casillas	Troy Evans	Marvin Mitchell
CB	Jabari Greer	Tracy Porter	Malcolm Jenkins	Randall Gay	Leigh Torrence
SS	Roman Harper	Pierson Prioleau	Chris Reis
FS	Darren Sharper	Usama Young

Special Teams

*Position*	*Player*	*Player*
Kicker	John Carney	Garrett Hartley
Punter	Thomas Morstead
Long Snapper	Jason Kyle

You'll notice the depth chart contains Will Smith, Charles Grant and Garrett Hartley, all three of whom are suspended for the first four games of the season. They will not count against the 53-man roster during those games, so at least two players (David Thomas was brought in) will need to be signed to take their place in the interim. It appears the Saints are light at the defensive tackle spot so I would hope to see one of those signings be used on that position.

Poll

Which player cut surprises you the most?

DeMario Pressley

136 votes

Paul Spicer

295 votes

Joey Harrington

98 votes

Adrian Arrington

208 votes

Anthony Waters

55 votes

Danny Gorrer

4 votes

796 votes | Poll has closed

Don't Fear the Reaper: Saints Final Roster Cuts Loom

Saintsational — Sat, 05 Sep 2009 11:00:54 -0000

In football, the staff member responsible for telling a player to report to the coach's office so that he may be told of his release is actually called the Turk. If you've ever watched Hard Knocks, he's the guy always saying, "Bring your playbook." But Blue Oyster Cult didn't popularize a song called, "Don't Fear the Turk" and like the Grim Reaper, the Turk seeks out players and brings them to their inevitable career death. Hence the title of this post.

Today is the day all NFL team rosters must be cut down to their maximum of 53 players, certainly not any coaches favorite part of the job but still a necessary evil. Inevitably, it comes down to a handful of very difficult decisions at just a couple of positions. Here's a look at some of the more difficult decisions the Saints coaching staff will have to make today.

The Wide Receiver Dilemma

Rod Harper, Courtney Roby and Adrian Arrington are the three players in the mix for one, maybe two, available spots. Harper's performance against the Dolphins on Thursday night should have assured him job security. Probably the most difficult decision of the day - if the coaching staff decides to keep six receivers - is between Arrington and Roby. Arrington has shown flashes of brilliance as a receiver and tremendous upside, making him incredibly difficult to part with. On the other hand, Roby's special teams and return abilities give him a shot to crack the lineup. I'd keep Arrington...Bush and Harper can return punts.

Running Back Crunch

Mike Bell is a lock for the third spot behind Reggie Bush and Pierre Thomas but I am beginning to think Payton will go with four players at this position. Lynell Hamilton has to be considered the clear cut favorite for that job but P.J. Hill and Herb Donaldson are also in the mix, Hill moreso than Donaldson. I think they're both gone and Hill is asked back to the practice squad if he's not picked up by another team, which is very likely.

Cornerback Quandary

Jabari Greer, Tracy Porter, Randall Gay and Malcolm Jenkins have all got to be considered a sure thing to make the roster this season, meaning Leigh Torrence and Danny Gorrer are left to choose from for the fifth spot. Torrence is probably the favorite here but Gorrer has impressed some. Don't think it's enough, though.

Safety Stresses

I still think the Saints will decided to place Chip Vaughn on IR to free up a valuable roster spot. This would leave only Chris Reis for the fifth spot. The question then becomes whether or not to actually keep a fifth safety on the roster. Knowing that Gregg Williams values the safety position and Reis has always been a special teams ace I think he stays but it's a tough call.

Linebacker Logjam

This one baffles me. Marvin Mitchell may make it because he is the only one penciled in at the middle linebacker spot behind Vilma, leaving Troy Evans, Jonathan Casillas and Anthony Waters all fighting it out for possibly just one position (I think Dunbar makes it). But if those guys are versatile enough, I'd prefer to see Casillas and Waters given a chance instead. In fairness, Evans has looked pretty good recently as well and contributes well on special teams. Wouldn't want to be the coaches for this one.

To Harrington or Not to Harrington

If the Saints wanted to only go with two quarterbacks this season, Joey Harrington is definintely the odd man out. Mickey Loomis said Thursday before the game that he gets nervous having only two quarterbacks on the roster and that Thursday nights matchup was not a tryout for Harrington, so I'm inclined to believe he's staying. Still, ya never know.

Easy Decisions

It is pretty safe to assume the following players will certainly not make the team:

Michael Brown

Canal Street Chronicles: Fleur-di-Links 8.3.09

Saintsational — Mon, 03 Aug 2009 11:00:39 -0000

Twitter

jeffduncantp Sunday practice in the books. Good day for Reggie Bush, Jabari Greer & Robert Meachem. Bush looks terrific, no hesitation on knees at all.

jeffduncantp Day 3 highlight: M. Mitchell throws R. Bush on blocking dummy like rag doll @ end of pass pro drills. Mitchell admits Bush won battle, tho.

drewbrees Sorry about the rain everybody. Our fans haven't been able to see many practices. Tomorrow morning should be a really good one though

jeffduncantp New Orleanian Mark Bloom visited prax from LA to check on client, CB Jabari Greer. Must be good luck. Greer scored 1st INT on Brees of camp

CPT23 Putting in work - it feels great! Time for some r&r then back at it again in the morning. See you bright and early.

therealJShock hope the weather clears up for our fans... time for some rest then putting in work in the am.... night everyone

saints83 Sorry to all the saints fans that have missed practice because of the weather. The rain should be fine in the am so bring on the Who Dats

Linkage

News and notes from New Orleans Saints' Sunday practice - Times-Pic

PLAY OF THE DAY

Greer won the honor of being the first player in camp to intercept Brees. During a seven-on-seven drill, Greer, who signed this offseason, stepped in front of receiver Devery Henderson, who was running a hook route, and picked off the pass.

While most New Orleans Saints would be glad for training camp to be over, Adrian Arrington just wishes that for him it would start - Times-Pic

"The hamstring injury was worse than we first thought," he said. "So the coaches are having me come back slow, not come back too fast and make it worse."

-Adrian Arrington

"It's big that they put me on IR; being a rookie and for them to keep me for another year ...," he said, acknowledging he's fortunate to still be around.

"I just hope to get back next week and get out there and show them what I can do."

-Adrian Arrington

New Orleans Saints defensive lineman Rod Coleman likes the fact he's playing for a 'real' coach - Times-Pic

"It was good, I needed a mental break," Coleman said. "I didn't even start watching football until November. About then, I said, 'It's time to get back out there and show them I've still got it.'"

-Rod Coleman

"When you have a coach who doesn't care if you win or lose, it's tough," Coleman said. "It was too much for him. Some guys are just not made to coach men."

-Rod Coleman

"You just can't go out there and yell and cuss the players out like they're kids,"

-Rod Coleman

THE LIGHTER SIDE - Times-Pic

"It's no different than a horse carrying 1 more pound on his back in the Kentucky Derby," Saints defensive line coach Bill Johnson said after Sunday's lone workout at the team's indoor facility in Metairie. That can make a difference.

"To play defensive line in this league, you have to have efficient movement. If that weight bothers you for your efficiency and movement, then it has to go. If not, then big's good."

-Bill Johnson

"Last year I played about 290, 292," Grant said. "If I get to 283, I can roll all day."

-Charles Grant

"I feel a lot lighter; I feel real good," Grant said. "As long as I'm making plays, my D-line coach ain't got a problem with my weight. Now, if you ain't making plays. . . . Look, I'm a realist. I know if I don't do my thing this year, they're probably going to get rid of my ass. I'm a grown man.

"But one thing I will do, I will do my thing. I had so much adversity last year, that's in God's hands. I don't sweat that. I can control what's in front of me. I can't worry about what's going to happen in the future. For me, that's having the best season I've had in the Saints' history. I'm one of the last of the Mohicans around here (players remaining from the Jim Haslett era)."

-Charles Grant

"They thought I was a lot heavier than I was last year," Smith said. "My body fat went up when I had that sports hernia, but my weight was still low. Now my body fat is about 11 percent. I've lost about 10, 11 pounds. I feel great, better than I have in a couple of years. I can go longer.

"They want us to be a lot faster. The way the defense was before they wanted us to be pluggers, to hold up the run and be sturdy on the run. Now they want us to be able to move a lot since we're going to be pass-rushing a lot more. Gregg (Williams) just wants us to be flying around a lot more."

-Will Smith

"I had the opportunity to be in Atlanta for seven years, and it took three to four years before we were a very productive unit. There is no finish line to building what we're trying to build. I keep seeing the summit. Every day there is going to be something to do to reach it."

-Bill Johnson

Bush back at practice - Sun Herald

“I feel like this year’s going to be a test for me to see where I’m at health-wise and I think I’ll be fine,” Bush said. “It’s just about doing the little things to keep myself healthy. Everything adds up, really, flexibility to the vitamins you take, to the food you eat. I’m really focusing on that this year and just trying to maintain everything I can to stay on the field.”

-Reggie Bush

“It’s just one of those drills where it’s kind of a tough man competition and you don’t want to lose, you don’t want to be shown up, so that’s really what it is,” Bush said. “I’ll watch the film and see what happens. All in all, it’s a great learning experience for all of us and it’s only going to help us.”

-Reggie Bush

Video: Camp Thoughts Day 3: Juan likes intensity -WWLTV

Day Three Notebook - New Orleans Saints official website

Saints Enter Difficult Week - New Orleans Saints official website

"Once the games start to be played, your mindset starts to change a little bit because you are looking forward to playing in a game," Vilma said. "The practices become a little easier to get through and the number of two-a-days drops off quite a bit, then you factor in the occasional day off and in some cases a travel day, and the routine starts to get broken up a bit."

-Jonathan Vilma

"It’s the routine and what we do at this time of year," said Vilma. "Most players make it sound like its grueling, and to an extent, it is tough, but in the grand scheme of things, there are plenty of things worse off than this, and we know that. I know that if you asked every guy out here, they know deep down how much they love playing the game and how lucky we are to be doing this. And when you are all going through a tough time together, it builds a strong team."

-Jonathan Vilma

Training camp battles to watch in Metairie - New Orleans Pro Football

Training Camp, Day 3: Reggie Bush gets feisty, Drew Brees has not so good day - WWL

New Saints defensive coach under the spotlight - NewOrleans.com

Saints: Sunday afternoon practice notes - NewOrleans.com

Saints have third straight indoor afternoon workout - NewOrleans.com

Top 10 Ways to Get Malcolm Jenkins to Sign - Chicks In The Huddle

Audio

From WWL's Sports Talk

Video

New Orleans Saints training camp video log (Aug. 2, 2009)

Sean Payton Press Conference

From the New Orleans Saints official website.

Opening Statement:

"On practice, Adrian Arrington, we're working with the hamstring; Lance Moore practiced on a limited basis; Kendrick Clancy is having some back spasms - we should have him back tomorrow but we held him this afternoon. There were two other players this afternoon - Jo-Lonn Dunbar with a mild hamstring and Dan Campbell with a finger."

How do you feel about your defensive tackle position?

"We have some depth there and some flexibility with a couple of ends that can move inside. (Paul) Spicer is a guy that can go inside; (Anthony) Hargrove is a guy that can go inside. Certainly we have (Sedrick) Ellis and Kendrick (Clancy) and we have depth a little bit behind those players in (Rod) Coleman and (DeMario) Pressley. Remi Ayodele has had some experience there at the nose too. When it's all said and done, typically we want to have a rotation inside with that front and I think we'll have a chance throughout this training camp to evaluate those players."

Gregg Williams has said that every job is open coming into this camp. Do you feel that way on defense?

"The point is that we don't take anything for granted. Each year in our league you see positions won or lost that maybe the media had penciled in a certain player and another player won the position. We take that approach. Certainly there are some players that are more established in their positions than others, but that being said, I think there is a lot of competition. We talked about that in the very first team meeting, that regardless of your years in the league or your experience, it's something that we have to see right now and we're really going to go by what we see."

Is there a particular battle at some of the linebacker spots?

"We have some young guys and those guys are taking snaps. Scott Shanle had one of his better years last year, but there is competition. We're deeper at that position group than we have been in my first three years. Overall, we're pleased with some of the depth and some of the younger guys. It's early now, but I'm anxious to see how they do when we get into the games and get into the scrimmage looks."

How will you handle Reggie Bush throughout camp with his knee?

"On the two-a-day schedule we'll back off the second practice and on the one-a-day schedule go full with him. He'll have at least one full practice a day right now and when we're on an ‘A' schedule, we'll back off him in the afternoon practice. There are going to be about four or five other guys that we'll do that with as well."

With his injury history do you plan on doing that as well in the season?

"We'll see. I think a lot of it during the season is the mental aspect of the game. The key is keeping him on the field and that's something that we'll pay close attention to. He's very competitive and he wants to be out here. There's a balance there that we just have to be smart with."

After one weekend, do you feel that you've been able to create the training camp environment you were looking for?

"I think the routine has worked out well so far, knock on wood. From a logistics standpoint, the schedule has gone smoothly. Any time you're having your first camp somewhere new, we're all creatures of habit and those habits are broken a little bit and you have to get into a new routine. It seems like the time to and from the hotel has worked out pretty smoothly and the players have grasped the schedule pretty quickly."

With having moved the practices indoors the last few days because of rain, do you think some of the previously scheduled indoor practices might be moved outside?

"We'll see. Tomorrow we'll be outside in the morning and inside in the afternoon. Tuesday, the plan is to be inside with the walkthrough and then outside in the afternoon. Really the weather has kicked us in here a little more than we had hoped because of the fields, but with the way it sorts out, we'll be out there plenty."

Are you pleased with the backup quarterback situation right now? Do you have them in a particular order at this point?

"Right now it's either. Both Mark Brunell and Joey Harrington are getting a lot of work. It's going to be easier to see them once you get into the game setting. We're working both of those players with the second and third groups. We have a lot of time here to evaluate them."

Are you confident in how they're performing?

"Yes. I think we have experience there and I think we have some youth there as well with Joey. I like our depth at the position."

Is Joey picking things up well?

"I think so. The challenge he has is that any time you're working with the third group is that the picture that you're getting isn't always going to be clean. He's working with some younger guys and whether it's protection oriented or on the perimeter, sometimes there are some adjustments he has to make because of that. Overall I like where he's going."

Is there anything about practicing inside that you can't do outside?

"With this facility we can do most everything. We can't really punt; we can set up our punt drills and work off the JUGS gun, but that's really the one aspect that you're limited with here with the ceiling height. Other than that, we can pretty much do whatever we want. It's a full field. I think it's a great set-up."

What are your thoughts on Adrian Arrington's potential?

"We just have to get the hamstring healthy. He's a guy that picks things up quick. We just have to get him back on the field."

Do you remember how many times practice was affected by rain when you were in Jackson?

"I think overall it was three times in three years. Last year was the first time that we really had to cancel a practice and go into that gymnasium. There were two other practices that we cut a little short, but that was pretty good, considering the rain they're getting now."

Was this the biggest concern you had about having camp here?

"There were a number of things. You're a little shorthanded when you don't have a rain plan, and that's the case with any team that goes away to training camp. Other than that, this gave us a chance - forget the rain - it gave us a chance to get in here a little bit and get out of the sun for ‘x' number of practices. We still get our work in the humidity and the heat and there's still a change-up by coming into this building."

Is there a point where you worry that the intensity in practice is getting a little too high and are you getting close to that point?

"I like to see what we're doing right now. I think the intensity has been good and that's part of training camp. We'll be smart and judicious about the tempo in each drill that we have and make sure that we define it with our players so there's no gray area, but I think it has been good."

Is Carl Nicks going to be the starter at left guard or is there an open competition there with he and Jamar Nesbit?

"He's taking the reps with the ones right now and that's a position where we thought he played pretty well last year. I expect him to be competing with that first group and involved in that first group. Certainly Jamar Nesbit has experience - not only at guard but at the center position - but right now, Carl is taking all of those reps."

How do you know the weather conditions in Jackson? Have you been following to see what it would've been like up there?

"I have been. From what I hear, the groundskeeper there said that we wouldn't have been able to practice yet outside because of the amount of rain that they've had."

Canal Street Chronicles: Fleur-di-Links

Saintsational — Fri, 31 Jul 2009 11:00:23 -0000

More photos » by Bill Haber - AP

4 months ago: New Orleans Saints coach Sean Payton listens to a question at a news conference prior to the start of the club's NFL football training camp in Metairie, La., Thursday, July 30, 2009. (AP Photo/Bill Haber)

Browse more photos »

Depth Chart Released

Here's a link we all know and love but probably haven't check out in a while. It's the Saints depth chart and it's been updated for training camp. Well...sort of. Keep in mind this is the Saints official website we're talking about here so you know there's got to be something wrong with it. If you pay attention you'll notice it's missing a few notable names including Adrian Arrington and Bobby McCray. Check it out for yourself and talk about your initial observations.

Twitter - In their own words

drewbrees Left my room at 6:30 this morning. Just walked back in the door of my room at 10:30 PM. A typical training camp day - Drew Brees

therealJShock just got out of meetings then snack.. already time for bed what a sudden change from a week ago hahhaha - Jeremy Shockey

therealJShock just got off field!!! day 1 went well as expected. Its good to see everyone going to be a fun season... - Jeremy Shockey

saints83 Today was a great 1st day. Run test went well for all the guys then a light practice. Man I missed football. Tomorrow we put on the pads ... Problem is I already miss my wife and kids - Billy Miller

Reggie - That Cheating Bastard?

Originally the couple had claimed that cheating did not play a part in their split. But is that really the case? And who was cheating on who? Do you care?

EXCLUSIVE: Model Claims Affair With Reggie Bush While He Dated Kim Kardashian - RadarOnline.com

Foxnews.com broke the story that Reggie saw text messages from Kanye West on Kim'sphone and "flipped out." Fox reported the messages were more than just friendly and talked about Kanye hanging out with Kim and how much fun he had.

Now RadarOnline.com has learned exclusively that a sexy Latino model in Miami is claiming she had an affair with Reggie and has been threatening to take her story public to the highest bidding magazine.

The model claimed a months-long affair that included hookups in Los Angeles, Las Vegas and Miami and included X-rated texts and phone messages.

So who is this mystery woman, this sexy Latino model of which they speak? Kissing Suzy Kolber thinks they've cracked the case. Fair warning though: This link may not be safe for those of you at work. If you're married, it may not be safe at home either. Whatever, just click it. You won't regret it. Unless you get fired. Or divorced.

Reggie Bush loves the Ortega Taco??? - Kissing Suzy Kolber

Extra Fluff

Here are a bunch of articles that are all based on the two press conferences with Mickey Loomis and Sean Payton yesterday. Feel free to read the articles but I suggest going straight to the source and simply reading or listening to the actual press conferences yourself. I have included both press conferences in transcript and audio form for your reading and/or listening pleasure, after the jump.

New Orleans Saints Coach Sean Payton eager to get training camp started - Times-Pic

Jason Kyle's long snaps a step up for New Orleans Saints, Coach Sean Payton says - Times-Pic

New Orleans Saints' negotiations with Malcolm Jenkins stall - Times-Pic

Payton, Loomis optimistic before Saints season of urgency - NewOrleans.com

Saints not expecting Jenkins anytime soon - Sun Herald

Notes from Thurs news conference at Saints camp - WWL

Saints 1st rounder Jenkins not expected in camp anytime soon - WWLTV

Press conference audio courtesy of WWL

Sean Payton

Mickey Loomis

Sean Payton

From the New Orleans Saints official website.

Opening Statement:

"As we get started, I think it would easier for me to talk about the two or three guys that we have to pay attention to at the start of this camp that are injury concerns. Really there are three, and I'm not including Stanley Arnoux, we understand the significance of his injury. Right now, we're going to monitor Adrian Arrington. His hamstring has gotten better, but it's not yet 100%, so we'll take him day by day and won't put him out there in full team drills until we feel like we're confident that it's ready to go without the threat of another injury. Lance Moore has done a great job and he's way ahead of schedule. He'll get some individual work, but again, we'll be judicious in bringing him into any team type of drills, any type of contact work. He's a guy that we'll have to be mindful of with his shoulder. The last player is Jonathan Vilma. He had a scope procedure done in his abdomen area. It wasn't a full sports hernia, but nonetheless, he'll get a fair amount of reps to begin with and we'll just monitor that in the first week or so before we turn him loose. He'll get a lot of the team work, where the other two players will be guys that we'll have to hold back off on because right now we have them on the PUP list. We'll take it day by day with those players. Those are the three guys that you'll see tomorrow in practice; Vilma you won't notice as much because he'll be getting some reps, but you'll see Lance mainly working with the individual stuff and the same thing with Adrian."

Was Vilma's surgery done in the offseason?

"This was a procedure that we decided to have done shortly after our last minicamp. It was one in which we had time. It was a small repair and the procedure went well. Dr. Myers from Philadelphia performed it and we went ahead and had it done so it wasn't something that became an issue or aggravated him throughout the course of the season. I know Jonathan and our doctors and myself and Mickey spent a lot of time discussing the options and we felt like with the time we had and the gap we had between when we finished minicamp and when we started tomorrow that we were able to do that. Fortunately for Jon, he has rehabbed it well and feels close to 100%, but not quite there yet."

Did you say that Arrington and Moore are on the PUP list?

"Both of them are guys that we wouldn't pass on the physical, which isn't uncommon. We'll wait and we'll monitor their progress and then as soon as we feel like they're ready to put them into team drills, then we'll do that."

What did the team do today? Did everyone else pass their physicals?

"Everyone did except the two players that I mentioned. Basically the morning meeting was an operations meeting that we do every year where we try to hit on all the topics as it pertains to the training room, as it pertains to the equipment room, media - all the operations aspects of training camp. When you do switch training camp sites, there's a little bit of unsettledness in regards to really for all of us this is our first go-round of having training camp here. We talked a little bit this morning about some of the nuances that we'll have to adjust to in our travel schedule back and forth from the hotel. But that morning meeting was about 45-50 minutes long; they had meetings then in the afternoon and then this evening we had a brief walkthrough inside in shorts and helmets. We had a conditioning test prior to lunch and all the players participated in that. The results were real good. Now they're heading back to the hotel where tonight we'll have our team meeting, which is a little bit more football related and then special teams and offense and defensive meetings before they have bed check."

Is everyone here except for Malcolm Jenkins?

"Everyone is here but Jenkins, correct."

Did everyone make their weight?

"Everyone made their weight; all but one and I don't want to get into specifics. I was real pleased with the weigh-ins. Normally you have a handful of players that struggle to make it, but we did a pretty good job and that was reflected in the conditioning test as well."

How concerned are you about Jenkins missing time?

"Being that we haven't practiced yet and really it starts tomorrow, this is a little bit unique this year in that there are a fair amount of first-round picks that haven't signed and typically they kind of go in clumps. Hopefully that process speeds up, not only for our first-round pick but for everyone else because it typically brings the remaining players with them."

Is there a battle for the long snapper position?

"I'm glad you asked that. A week ago we had to waive Darian Barnes and that created a spot for us. This morning, we had to waive Rob Ninkovich. Those two spots freed up the two signings of our punter (Thomas Morstead) and our safety (Chip Vaughn). Right now we're at our correct number. When Malcolm Jenkins signs, we'll have to create another spot and we'll deal with that when that happens. That's the hardest thing about the calendar in regards to have to make a decision like that with a guy like Ninkovich or Barnes who have been with you throughout the whole offseason and now here it is a day before training camp starts and you have to make a decision like that; that's never easy. Both of those players have been released which cleared the room for the two players that I talked about."

How will the looming suspensions for Will Smith and Charles Grant affect how you use them in training camp and the preseason?

"That's a good question. I think that there's a portion of the camp where you have to make sure that they're working with them, but the reps behind them become equally important to Bobby McCray, Paul Spicer, Anthony Hargrove, Jeff Charleston, all those other players that potentially are going to be playing and filling in. We have to be paying close attention to the reps and how much we give and how little we give. That is a little different, knowing that we're going to start the season with those suspensions. The preseason games give you the opportunity to give a little more work to the players behind Charles and Will."

Will Charles and Will be with the first-string unit to start?

"Yes. They'll start off and the position, by nature, is one that has a lot of rotation to begin with. That makes a little easier, unlike a position like quarterback or cornerback. We try to rotate those guys quite a bit. But to answer your question, those guys will start off the first practice tomorrow with the first group. But you'll see a lot of rotation and really a lot of us playing around with the guys behind them to see where we're at as we get ready to start four or five weeks from now."

Can you explain why you made the switch at long snapper from Kevin Houser to Jason Kyle?

"The first thing we try to do - we being Mickey, myself and the organization - is that we look at each decision and make sure that it's football related. I feel comfortable and confident in the acquisition of Jason Kyle coming in as a guy with experience. We worked him out in the spring prior to us breaking the minicamp, particularly with his field goal and extra point snaps, the shorter of the two. We felt that he was consistent, he had a lot of the same attributes that Kevin had and we felt that he had better velocity and we made the decision.

"In regards to the other situation off the field, that was not something that played into this decision. Obviously, that's something that was unfortunate. I've read a lot about it and the one thing that I kept reading that didn't seem too accurate is that I don't think speaking on behalf of the 24, 25, 26, 27 people, I don't think anyone was looking at that as an investment opportunity as much as they were looking at it as purchasing tax credits. It's one thing to make investments and a lot of us have people that are in charge of that, but it's another thing to just purchase Louisiana tax credits. I think the goal for everyone involved and the reason that there were so many involved was that after you're here and you've lived here for a little while you understand the economy of Louisiana and how they're able to attract the film industry to this region. The idea was fairly simple and that was to purchase tax credits. I'm fairly certain that nobody in that group was interested in investing at all in the studio per se; certainly I wasn't."

Did people heap blame on Houser for that?

"I think that would be an easier answer for our players to give you. It's harder for me. Kevin have communicated from shortly after the team when that purchase went a little south and he and I stayed in touch in regards to that matter, but I don't think that those involved felt like it was any type of investment other than the opportunity to purchase tax credits, which I think is fairly common."

From a football standpoint, where was Houser falling short?

"In Jason's case, we felt like we were getting someone a little quicker with his times on the field goals and the PATs and a little quicker in regards to the punts. Certainly we had consistency with Kevin, but the player we signed we had felt like he wasn't going to be available. We felt like Carolina was going to have to create room and when he was still available after the workout, we went ahead with that opportunity. We're excited about it. Today was the first chance we had to see him some and he did a good job. Again, we're always looking at how things affect our team and if we're doing the right thing for the team in regards to a player that we feel like upgrades us. We try to be right as much as we can and in his case, we feel like we've been able to do that."

Was the conditioning test a pass/fail test?

"It's a pass/fail. There are three sets of gassers that they run for time. I think 95% of the team made all of their times and then typically it comes down to the third group - the linemen - that struggle. We probably had four players - they all finished - but four players that didn't make all their times in the conditioning test, and all of them linemen."

What kind of condition is Sedrick Ellis in?

"Real good. He made all of his times and his weight is good."

Was there a concern on your part that Houser would have become a distraction in the locker room?

"There are always lessons to be learned and this isn't something that's new to any locker room. Again, I think the feeling of the group was that it was a fairly simple matter in regard to the decision to make a purchase of tax credits. In regards to a distraction or all those other issues, I don't know that that was the case. I guess you could poll each player or coach that was involved and you might get a different answer. Certainly there was a fair amount of concern as guys were preparing to do their taxes for the '08 season, but the decision we made was not predicated on that issue. That's the thing we tried to emphasize and I talked with Kevin about that when I contacted him on the night we released him."

What have you learned as a head coach?

"I've learned a lot. I've learned the importance of personnel, the importance of the offseason each year, certainly I have appreciated the importance of having good quarterback play. I think when you look at the three prior years and you get past '06, certainly it's not easy to stay on top or to win each year. It's hard to do and it's something that we're committed to doing. For a question like that, I could go on here for 20 minutes or half an hour, but there are a lot of organizational things. I've learned to be patient and all-in-all, still the importance of having the right staff in place and the right players in place in the locker room and the importance of player evaluation and getting the right guys. The thing that all of us think about at this time of the year is that you're preparing to get ready to play your first game, but equally if not more important is that you're preparing to find the right 53 guys that will make up this team. That weighs on your mind a lot because those decisions that are forthcoming are very important."

Was patience something you really had to learn?

"I think as a young coach there are certain things that you can't come in ready to know. You're going to learn some things on the job and I think you keep track of things that take place throughout the course of games, throughout the course of the offseason in dealing with players, and no differently than a player would, you try to eliminate repeating a mistake. I think it's important and all of us as coaches evaluate constantly how we gameplan, how we practice. Our itinerary is a little different in this training camp than it has been in prior camps. It's easy to just turn the page to what you did a year ago and put the stamp on it, but that's not necessarily the right thing. As we move training camp here, there are going to be some nuances that come up that maybe wouldn't have come up in Jackson and you have to be able to handle those things smoothly."

What do you see as some of the things you'll have to deal with in having training camp here at home?

"I think the first issue is going to be the transportation to and from the hotel. Are we going to have transportation issues? Are players going to be able to have ample time to get from the facility to where they're eating? One of the things we did when we set up camp here is that we moved all the meetings, all the video, all the computers, everything out to the Hilton. The reason we did that was that if you keep it all here, then you have the issue of practice being over, lunch being served and then the players meeting here and you're cutting away from their time off their feet somewhere in a bed. When you're on a college campus, they're in the dorm and that's not a faraway place to go, but here I know that one option is to try to use cots or something here at the facility. Rather than doing that, with the meetings and all the meeting rooms and film and the meals all at the hotel, basically the hotel operates as our training camp with our practice facility being right where it's at. When the players get up in the morning, any breakfast is had at the hotel, they make the drive over here to the facility and it's about 12 minutes. They get taped, they get their treatment, they get their pads on, they practice and when practice is over with, they have their commitments with the media and the weight room and they shower here and then they're back on the road to the hotel where they're going to eat lunch, and after lunch is over with they're going to meet and then get on the elevator, go up to their room and sleep and it maximizes the time between practices where they're off their feet in a bed and then back down and back to the facility for the second practice. All our meetings and all our meals will be over at the hotel rather than at the facility and the main reason for that is back to that rest issue between practices. To answer your question, the concern would be if we're allocating enough time in between the hotel and the facility. We're here locally so we have to make sure that we're monitoring the hotel. It's important that we create an environment that's still like training camp, that's it's not just another day at practice on Airline Drive. By doing that with the curfew - everyone is mandated to stay in the hotel - players, coaches, the whole group - hopefully we can create that to some degree, although it's different than being on a college campus. The benefits are definitely the facilities. Today it rained when we were going to do the conditioning test. It wouldn't have rained at Millsaps, but it rained here and we went inside. We have that flexibility, even without the rain, to bring them inside out of the sun. I think our guys do as good a job as anyone in the league with the fields. Our two grass fields are outstanding. From a facilities standpoint, we've really helped ourselves with regards to the fields, the indoor facility and that's the main reason."

Will there be any significant changes football-wise in this camp?

"The only that's a little different is that we have three types of schedules. We have an ‘A' schedule, which we'll be on tomorrow which is two practices. Saturday we'll be on an ‘A' schedule of two practices and then periodically you'll see on the calendar a ‘B' schedule. At one point in time, the ‘B' schedule meant a light practice in the morning and then a full practice in the afternoon. The ‘B' schedule this year will be nothing more than a walkthrough in the morning, so it's not even listed as a practice and it doesn't even show up on any of the media times because there isn't a practice taking place. We've kind of backed off that ‘B' schedule in the AM and increased the time of the practice in the PM. That's different and that would be the same case for the ‘C' schedule. Logistically, we're familiar with flying in and out of here so the airport would be very similar to the closeness to the airport in Jackson. We're 10 minutes away from the airport so we should be fine for the preseason games when we're leaving here. There are just a few things, but by and large, I think James Nagaoka and Jay Romig have done a great job of overseeing and getting this camp set up. There's always a lot more to it than meets the eye. If you toured the Hilton, you'd see that basically the whole lower level has been taken over. I would describe it much like the hotel in Indianapolis when we relocated there last year. You have all your meeting rooms; you have your position rooms, the coaches have their offices in each meeting room, there's a staff meeting room, there are offense and defense breakout rooms, there are team meeting areas and then the dining area. They can even get treatment there in the evenings. Curfew will be at 11:00 at night. We have set that up as our headquarters."

Looking at the age of the roster, will there be players that get rested during two-a-days?

"There will be a handful of players that will be in that mode that we'll look at and really just back off of in one of the practices or slow back on some of the reps. Not talking about the injured players, but talking about some of the guys that are a little older. A guy like Dan Campbell orRod Coleman. We have six or seven guys that will be on that list, depending on what we're doing."

Will the players be able to have family time at the hotel or get home at all during camp?

"I'm not opposed to them going to get something that they need to get. There are times, but any type of visit would be down in the lobby of the hotel. Again, we're trying to create the environment where it's training camp. Sometimes those closest to you can become your biggest distraction and I think the players understand that. We're cutting back a little bit in regards to the reps. By being here we have the ability to come inside a little more because of heat and we have to make sure that we still have the focus. I think in the end the training camp will be what we make it to be and that's on us as coaches to start with and the veteran players on this team to do a good job with it. I think if you ask the players, a lot of them are excited to be back here. They appreciate the facility and there's a lot less stress in regards to the movement of the locker room and the weight room and all of those things. From a facilities standpoint, there are less hiccups."

From what you've seen, is this the best group you've had since you've been here?

"I think so. But you get to training camp here and you start working and regardless of what you think prior to the year, it really comes down to what you do once the season gets going. We're anxious for the challenge. We think we have gotten better. We've had a real good offseason. This time of the year, there are a lot of teams that are excited about where they're at and there are a lot of teams that are looking forward to the start of the regular season and we're certainly one of those teams. I think overall, the offseason was clearly the best that we've had. It was competitive and I expect training camp to be competitive. We've made some changes and guys have adjusted pretty well and pretty quickly to that and our players are ready to get going. We have a long way to go and a long way before we even get close to playing our first regular season game, but the process continues now as we get everyone back."

After missing the playoffs the last two seasons, do you consider this to be a critical year?

"Every year is critical. Certainly there is a sense of urgency that we all have as coaches and players. We don't take any season for granted ever. We're looking forward to getting out there and practicing. We're looking forward to getting better and giving ourselves an opportunity as we start the season this year with some new people and we're looking forward to that. I would say that there is a sense of excitement in the organization and not just on the football end of the building. There's a pretty good feeling about this team. Now this team hasn't been made up yet and that's why there's that sense of pressure to get the right 53 to find out about this team. The team itself is 80-some players and the key is finding the right 53 that are going to represent the 2009 team. That's one of the big reasons for training camp - to evaluate your personnel and find the right group for the season."

Is there a position group that could prove to be the toughest cuts?

"We're deep in a few areas. I think we're deep at cornerback right now. We're going to have good competition in that area. I think we have pretty good depth at the defensive end position for a number of reasons. You could go through some of the different position groups - at receiver there are some guys that will be competing for not necessarily the first spot or the second spot but for reps past that. I want to get a good look at this running back position group after we get pastReggie Bush and Pierre Thomas. We'll find out where Mike Bell is at, find out where some of these other young players are at - Lynell Hamilton and then the two college free agents. There is a lot to be evaluated; you can go into each position group. You can look at tight end and there's a mixed bag of players there young and old that we have to gauge where they're at. The good news is that we have a good period of time in front of us to do that."

How are Reggie Bush and Marques Colston going into camp?

"Reggie is 100%. Marques is 100% with no limitations."

Given that you feel that you're deep at the corner position, if you had to say something to Malcolm Jenkins about missing time, what would you say to him?

"This is the first day that we've been here and two-thirds of the first-round picks haven't signed a contract yet. The good news is that we're talking about a player that is very intelligent and one of his strengths is his ability to grasp the system. He pays close attention to detail and I think that he's a player that when the time comes and he has to transition back into training camp, he'll handle that transition aspect of it fairly quickly. Outside of that, I think everything else is understood."

Have you talked to him?

"I haven't. Mickey is working with his agent and we'll go from there."

You've commented on a window of opportunity with Drew Brees as the quarterback. Could you elaborate on that?

"If you just look at it - and I don't want to throw out years because he has done a number of things that have surprised us already. We certainly have a quarterback that's good enough to win with and you never take that for granted. We feel like he's playing at a high level and we feel like he's leading at a high level, which is another positive trait. How can we evaluate the offseason areas that were of concern and how can we improve in those areas and get the production around him to get the play of the people around him up to speed is the question. I've read where people have looked at it as a window and I think that's fair, but what I don't want to do is give you the time of the window because we just finished spending a whole offseason talking about a 39-year-old quarterback. He takes very good care of his body; he's someone that is very diligent with his training habits and when you have someone like that and you have the right guy leading you, I think you look at each season with a sense of urgency and our approach is that. That's a good thing to talk about. There's nothing wrong with talking about high expectations and talking about championship seasons but it first starts though with tomorrow's two practices and it's a process and it takes a while. I think our players are ready for the process and we're looking forward to it."

Is there anything new as far as Michael Vick being available his status from your point of view?

"A lot of people have talked about it and I think everyone is excited to see what comes of where he signs. Having had a chance to coach against him when he was in Atlanta, all of us certainly have respect for his skill set. I don't see the Saints as being in a position where we're going to go in that direction, but I would imagine within the next couple of days we'll find out who he's going to sign with. I think there will be an interest from a handful of teams."

When will the veterans "escape" from camp?

"If you're asking the question of when does camp end or when do we leave the hotel, the Tuesday we travel to Houston, which is two-and-a-half weeks from now, we check out of the Hilton and we come back from Houston that Saturday night late and we're now at Airline Drive in regards to meetings. We're still on a two-a-day schedule, but now players are sleeping at their homes."

Mickey Loomis

From the New Orleans Saints official website.

Opening Statement: We had two draft picks signed today. We're pleased about having agreements with both of them last night. Khai Harley did a great job for us in our office and both of the agents did a good job in making sure those guys were signed and here for the meeting this morning. I would say there's no progress at all on Malcolm (Jenkins). I'm pessimistic in terms of having anything done with him in the near future.

Q: Besides money is the fact that his agency is representing nine first round draft picks a factor at all?

A: I think that's some of it, but it's a slow process. It's been a slow process for a number of years now. I think it seems like it's slower than it has been. I think some of it has to do with a couple of agencies having a large number of players.

Q: Does the economy have anything to do with it?

A: I think every year, part of the issue is the dollars. I think the economy definitely affects that. It's affected all of our teams and we all have to be conscious of our costs and our expenses and yet, it seems like the agents and representatives to these guys are oblivious to that.

Q: Is it a situation where the signing of the 13^th pick could slot things a little?

A: Not if the deals are of the magnitude of increase of the few deals that I've seen done. That's going to create a real issue for us. We're not in that market. What you say is true. These draft picks are slotted, but I'm pessimistic about this year and the magnitude of some of the increases we've seen given where we're at economically. I'm pessimistic about that.

Q: Where are you and Ben Dogra in terms of talking?

A: We've given them a proposal and they haven't gotten back to us. They have a lot of guys to do.

Q: Are you surprised not only at the lack of communication, but at the asking prices?

A: We haven't gotten a proposal from them, so it's hard for me to be surprised at what they're asking for, because I don't know what they're asking for, but there's only a few deals done. Yes, I'm surprised by the magnitude of increase on some of the deals, but it is what it is.

Q: What is the increase in some of the deals? Is it ten percent?

A: You hear a bunch of things in the way you calculate it. Ten percent wouldn't scare me as much. Some of the numbers you are hearing are closer to 20 percent.

Q: Is this fuel for a rookie wage scale?

A: I don't know the answer to that. I envy that circumstance when it comes around to negotiating these deals. I envy the system that the NBA has in terms of just draft picks, but we have to do what's right for the New Orleans Saints and we have to work within the parameters of our salary structure as well as be conscious of the system we have and the way draft picks get paid. I think it's going to be difficult.

Q: Did you see this coming?

A: I think this isn't atypical. A year ago we were six days into camp before Sedrick (Ellis) signed. There's nothing unusual about it.

Q: Give us your take about Sean Payton and the job he's done?

A: I love Sean Payton as our head coach. I'm more sold on Sean Payton as our coach than the day we hired him. I don't know if I can be any clearer than that.

Q: Are you aware of any avenues for appeal left for Charles Grant and Will Smith in fighting or delaying their suspensions?

A: I'm not aware of anything other than that they are suspended for the first four games. What I don't know is in terms of the two Williams' in Minnesota and their court case. I don't know if the result of that will have any effect on our guys or not. We're anticipating that they're going to be out for the first four games and we've prepared for that event.

Q: Would you call the proposal you made to Malcolm Jenkins' agent preliminary?

A: I'd call it a first proposal. There are give and take in negotiations and lots of issues.

Q: Do you anticipate Malcolm's holdout being longer than Sedrick's?

A: I don't know that. I can't answer that. There are a lot of things that can happen overnight.

Q: What makes you optimistic about this season?

A: I think the type of people that we have on our team in terms of players and coaches. HavingDrew Brees as our quarterback and Sean Payton as our head coach, Marques Colston at the receiver position and the offensive line that we have. I'm just optimistic because of the type of people we have in our building because I know winning is important to them. I think that our team collectively is disappointed in the results we've had the last two years. I think they all believe we're a good team and I think they have a chip in their shoulder to prove that.

Q: Is there any design to having the second-oldest roster in the league?

A: We pay attention to that. We pay attention to the age and experience on our team. One of the things that we've got in our minds is we do want to get a little younger going forward. I think we do have a core group of guys that are younger players. Reggie's (Bush) a younger player still, Tracy Porter, Marques Colston. We got a core group of guys that are young players that are contributors to our team. I'm not overly concerned about it.

Q: In terms of some of your free agency moves, was there a thinking you wanted more of a veteran presence?

A: I think the guys you're talking about are all defensive players. I think one of the things we thought about defensively was that we wanted to bring some additional leadership on that side of the ball.

Q: Did you guys consider extensions with Lance Moore, Jahri Evans and Jammal Brown?

A: We did. We talked to the agents of a couple of those guys and we weren't able to make any progress. I'm hopeful that all those players will be here for the long term.

Q: Has it changed because of the possibility that they could be restricted free agents next year because of the uncapped year rules?

A: There are a lot of variables. There's the uncertainty that exists with the CBA. Where we are in terms of our resources. This year and I mentioned it a couple times is the first year in quite some time that we've been pressed up against the salary cap, so we have to conscious of that.

Q: Do you think this team is really close to doing something really special?

A: Who knows until we play these games, but we felt like we had some needs we needed to address and we did that for the most part and so we'll just see what the results are. I think getting healthy is an important factor for us and I feel good about the health of our team coming into this training camp.

Q: Can you address the change in long snappers?

A: I think a lot of times when you're talking about positions like the snapper, it's not your first priority as you get into the offseason and so there wasn't an expectation that Jason Kyle was going to be available. I have a history with Jason Kyle. In Seattle we drafted him. I'm very familiar with him, had an expectation that he was going to be back in Carolina. That position's one where guys that do a great job are going to stay with the same franchise for a long period of time. It got to the point where he was not going to be back with Carolina, so let's bring him in, let's talk to him, let's work him out, let's see what the differences are and when he came we did that and made the change.

Q: Would you have stayed with Kevin Houser had Jason not been available?

A: I think we probably would have.

Q: Is he the only other snapper that came in for a workout?

A: He's the only snapper we brought in for a workout.

Q: Have you finalized your black and gold event plans?

A: We're going to have the scrimmage here. It's going to be the seventh.

Q: Will you have it at the facility?

A: We're going to do it here, like a regular practice in terms of having it on the fields.

Q: Will you open it up to the public?

A: We're still discussing that because obviously we have limited space here. I think this weekend and how we handle the crowds will help us determine that.

Q: Was there any talk of having it at somewhere like Tad Gormley Stadium?

A: We did. In fact we talked a lot about that. We decided we have the two preseason games and our fans will have an opportunity to see us out there. We have open practices. At the end of the day, we felt this first year back at training camp, it makes more sense for us logistically to have it here and reduce the number of logistics we have at least for this first year. But we're open to discussing that in the future, maybe taking it on the road a few times and that was really successful for us. We want it to be accessible to all of our fans in the region, not just New Orleans. We're going to talk about it in the future, but I think this first year, because of the changes coming back from Jackson and Millsaps, we wanted to reduce the number of logistics.

Q: Does Malcolm Jenkins' intelligence help the situation where a holdout might not hurt him as much?

A: There's no less urgency at all. I'm urgent to get the deal done. I'm just pessimistic. It's not that we're less urgent and it's as important for him to be here as any player, regardless of where he's at. Let's not forget he missed part of that offseason program because of the graduation date he had at Ohio State. He's behind already to some degree.

Q: Are there any newcomers in veterans or rookies that you brought in you are impressed with?

A: I think it's too early to say that. There's no one that's been disappointing. It's easier to say that. There's been no surprise. I think sometimes we get too excited seeing these guys in shorts at the minicamps and the OTA days. We end up being disappointed when we get to training camp. There's no one off the top of my head I can single out.

Q: What are some elements that you are looking to see with your team?

A: I think we saw one today in the conditioning of our team, which is as good as it's ever been, seeing them back and ready to go. That's a good start. How we practice and how we prepare over the next two or three weeks will be a big indicator for us.

Q: Was there anyone in condition that caught your eye?

A: I don't think anybody exceeded what I thought they could do. I think Marques Colston in conditioning his body, Will Smith I'm excited about. Those two guys off the top of my head jumped out. Skyler Green I think looks really fit. There were a number of guys like that. We had guys finishing that conditioning test real early. It wasn't like they were finishing it on the last count. They were finishing it with plenty of room to spare. That was exciting.

Q: Is it a good sign Malcolm Jenkins is in New Orleans already?

A: That's a real good sign. I don't have any doubt about his desire to be here his dedication and wanting to do the right thing. He's a bit of a hostage to the negotiations. It's just the way the system works. He wants to be here more than anyone. I understand that.

Q: You mentioned the players being disappointed the last couple years. How disappointed have you been?

A: Very disappointed. It's always disappointing when you haven't achieved your goals with your first goal being making the playoffs, especially when you feel like you have the capability of doing that. It's a disappointment for everybody in our building. We're all competitive and how that comes out sometimes is different. We all feel that way.

Q: Has Mr. Benson mentioned it?

A: He's been as disappointed as anyone. He also recognizes where we're at as a team and how far we've come in three short years. The response that our fans have had and the new deal with the state and the Superdome and keeping the team here, all the things that have happened, there's a lot of really, really good things that have happened. We just want a few more good things to happen. Let's win the division, let's make the playoffs, let's make a real strong run and get in the Super Bowl. That's what we're aiming for.

Q: Do you agree with the assessment that the time is now for this team with Drew Brees at quarterback?

A: Absolutely, that's a key element that's hard to obtain. When you have that you want to take advantage of it, no question about it. It's our responsibility to make sure we have the players at the other positions and around him that can help him. It's up to those guys to perform at that level. That's what our expectations are.

Q: Do you feel like you have that?

A: I think we can always get better. We're always looking to do that. I think we've shown we're capable of competing with anyone. That's the basis. I think we'll be fine.

Q: What kind of players is one your short list?

A: I'd rather not say the names, but typically what we'll have at any given time at any position, the top four or five guys we'll have a ready list that you describe as our pro scouting department has put together. We'll have a ready list of younger guys that our coaching staff has had input on. If we have an injury or a need, we'll go right to that list and get those guys in here. We've already been in contact with those agents and a lot of those players have had workouts over the past three months with us. We're ready to go. That's no different than any other team.

Q: Is there a big name out of the 11 guys that worked out yesterday?

A: The group we had in the other day was all younger players?

Q: How do you weigh bringing a veteran in and getting him into camp as opposed to evaluating your younger players?

A: It's not a science. The deeper you go into camp, the more inclined you're to go with a veteran player that knows what it takes to play in that first game, that knows the speed of the game changes from preseason to regular season, that understands the terminology if it's a new team. Oftentimes we'll bring back a veteran that was on our team previously in the prior years. There are a lot of factors there. The farther we get into camp, the more likely it's going to be a veteran player or an older player.

Q: Are Deuce McAllister and Mike McKenzie healthy enough to play right now?

A: I don't know, because we haven't given either one of them a physical recently. I don't know the answer to that.

Q: Is there a question that you want to see answered on your team in camp?

A: There's a lot. I'd rather not say the things I'm concerned about right now. We all have concerns and a new one comes up everyday.

Where Have all the Rookie Signings Gone?

Saintsational — Wed, 22 Jul 2009 11:00:20 -0000

More photos » by Bill Haber - AP

Will Malcolm Jenkins be signed before the start of training camp? New Orleans Saints first round draft pick Malcolm Jenkins (27) of Ohio State, goes through stretching exercises during football minicamp at the team's training facility in Metairie, La., Friday, May 8, 2009. (AP Photo/Bill Haber)

Browse more photos »

Last year, the Saints signed the first of their 2008 draft picks, DeMario Pressley, on July 12th; twelve days before the opening of training camp at Millsaps. Yet here we are now, only nine days removed from the start of this years camp, and not one word has been uttered about any of the Saints four 2009 draft picks being signed. If you're like me you've been wondering what gives and want to know when we can expect to start seeing them sign.

Any day now, my friend. Any day now.

Remember, it's not really up to the players themselves. I've been following two of the Saints rookies via Twitter - Malcolm Jenkins and Chip Vaughn to be precise - and it appears as though their time now is spent just working out, preparing for training camp...

Cardio! Let's Gooooooo!!!!!!!!

-Chip Vaughn

getting settled into their new homes here in the Big Easy...

Loving the NO already.... gotta get this apt right then chill out and relax

-Malcolm Jenkins

Getting my place set up now
-Chip Vaughn

more working out...

Got in a good workout wit brother Malcolm.

-Chip Vaughn

spending time with family...

Taking mom to Emeril's for dinner
-Chip Vaughn

and just relaxing...after working out.

just got done working out... im sittin in the house watching CSI
-Malcolm Jenkins

But while they're busy settling into their new lives and focusing on other things, their agents and lawyers - or attorney's as they like to call themselves - are the ones playing the waiting game, making sure their clients sign the largest contract possible. You know, the one that guarantees money to players for performances that are anything but guaranteed.

All we can really do is sneak a peek at last years signings and use them as a barometer. Take a look at how things went down last July.

Player	Date Signed	Terms
DeMario Pressley	July 12th	3 years
Adrian Arrington	July 18th	3 years
Taylor Mehlhaff	July 18th	3 years
Carl Nicks	July 23rd	3 years
Tracy Porter	July 25th (2 days into TC)	4 years
Sedrick Ellis	July 29th (6 days into TC)	5 years

*training camp started July 24th.

Pressley got the party started early, about two weeks before the open of training camp, but many of last years draft choices were not under contract until less than a week prior to the start of camp. Worse still, two players got late starts while waiting to finalize contract details. The ink on Tracy Porter's signature wasn't even dry when he signed his first deal before taking the field for the afternoon practice on the second day and Sedrick Ellis missed six days of Ed Orgeron screaming in his face while waitng to sign his contract.

So if the past can be used as any sort of indicator - and I think that it can - then what do we know? Not a damn thing, that's what. Saints fans should start reading about rookie signings very shortly. It might even be as early as today. But it also wouldn't be unusual if it takes another few days before we see any of them ink a deal, Malcolm Jenkins in particular. It may even be after training camp is already underway and could mean lost time.

And that, my friend, would be unfortunate.

Poll

Do you think the Saints will have any training camp holdouts?

No!

240 votes

Probably Malcolm Jenkins.

125 votes

None of them will sign by camp.

25 votes

Morstead will be the last to ink.

11 votes

A couple.

79 votes

480 votes | Poll has closed

Sunday's Random Notes, Links, Audio, Video and Puzzle

Saintsational — Sun, 07 Jun 2009 12:00:21 -0000

CSC All-Time Saints Team

Congratulations to the latest inductee to our CSC All-Time Saints team, Wayne Martin. He was the overwhelming favorite in our poll last week, winning with nearly 44% of the vote. With all of the action happening this weekend, I nearly forgot about our All-Time team. By the way, you can keep up with our team as we continue over on the right sidebar. Exile on Mtn St. (my new nickname for MtnExile) was corteous enough to create the fancy little roster for us. We'll get back to the team very shortly.

Puzzle

I will post a picture puzzle today at 12pm Noon Central. Anyone interested in some friendly competition should be here at that time. First person to correctly guess the subject of the picture wins. For some warming up or practice, click here. Today's puzzle will be harder. Goodluck. You're gonna need it.

Linkage

Saints Coach Payton focuses on teamwork - New Orleans Saints Beat

"I wouldn't say yesterday's practices were too physical, but the one in the p.m. was close," Stinchcomb said. "Right now, it's intense and good. There's some self-regulating going on. There are some flare-ups. That's how players police things. If something gets out of line, there are ways players go about balancing out things, like holding up players and not taking them to the ground." "It's pretty much a free-for-all in shorts and helmets, as long as you don't have pads on," Stinchcomb said. "As long as there is an understanding that the main objective, no matter whether you're on offense or defense, is to get better and for us to be a Super Bowl-contending team, then everything is good in here.

"The offense doesn't have a problem if the defense is playing hard, and the defense doesn't have a problem if the offense is going hard. It's about intent."

"I've been going up against (left defensive end) Charles Grant for nearly a decade," Stinchcomb said. "But there is a professional aspect to his game. If he's in danger of rolling up somebody or getting rolled up, he'll pull up, because it's the first week of June, and we don't have our first game until the middle of September.

"This is a concern for every player in this locker room just because of our health. This is our career, and this is how we conduct our business -- with our bodies. So protecting our team and our careers comes first and foremost."

BACKUP PLAN - NOLA.com

"I wanted to get with a good team, and the Saints have been a good team since Coach Payton got here," Spicer said. "After talking with him and knowing Coach Williams like I do, and knowing what the Saints have been about the past few years, I wanted to be a part of this.

"Now I have this opportunity, and I'm going to make the most of it."

-Paul Spicer

"This is a great opportunity for me; it's really been a blessing," Hargrove said. "These guys -- the GM (Loomis), Sean Payton, Gregg Williams, (defensive line coach) Bill Johnson, everybody -- have gone above and beyond for me. All I want to do is return the favor.

"They're giving me a shot; that's all. Nothing else has been discussed with me. All that other stuff (the pending suspensions) has nothing to do with me."

-Anthony Hargrove

Sharper brings years of talent to beleaguered Saints defense | News for New Orleans, Louisiana | Saints | News and Weather for New Orleans | wwltv.com

"I feel good now," Sharper said. "The thing when you get into the years I’ve put in, I feel good. You think of guys and I always try to see guys I’ve seen play like Leroy Butler, who was older when I got there, or Eugene Robinson or Rod Woodson and see these guys play until they’re 36, 37. "I know I condition myself well so I know I can go that long. It’s just having the want-to. That’s the big difference now."

WWL - AM870 | FM105.3 | News | Talk | Sports - Q and A with Jeremy Shockey at Saints Mini-Camp

This is what happens when the media starts asking the tough questions. This was an interesting interview.

Q: Can you discuss what happened in Las Vegas?

A: Not much. I'm sure all of you read about it. If you're halfway intelligent you can read it.

Q: Was it overblown?

A: Yes, I think so. They say, what happens in Vegas, stays in Vegas. That's the past, we're talking about the future.

New Orleans Saints cornerback Malcolm Jenkins finishes school, gets to work - New Orleans Saints Beat

"I was watching some film on the plane," said Jenkins, who arrived around 9:30 p.m. "As soon as I got to the hotel, I got some water and just got in the playbook some more before I took a nap. So I'm kind of low on sleep right now."

"The sooner I could get down here, the more I could learn," said Jenkins, who arranged the expedited schedule with all of his professors and school advisors. "And now I'm just all out."

Best Of New Orleans Blog - The Saints’ Defense has the "Chip-on-the-Shoulder" Routine Down Pat

Defensive coordinator Gregg Williams and the Saints’ defense brought their lunch pales with them to the second half of today’s OTA’s. The Saints’ reconstructed Defense went to work on the NFL’s number one ranked offense but not before giving up big plays over the middle of the field to tight end Billy Miller and deep threat wide receiver Devery Henderson.

Audio

These are all from, where else, WWL's Sports Talk. They are locker room sound bites from this weekend. In order we've got Adrian Arrington, Jason David, Carl Nicks and Jeremy Shockey.

Video

Here are a couple of random YouTube clips from training camp. Very short. Guerilla style.

New Orleans Saints Minicamp: The View from the Middle of the Top Metal Bleacher

Saintsational — Sat, 06 Jun 2009 11:00:32 -0000

More photos » by Bill Haber - AP

6 months ago: New Orleans Saints tight end Jeremy Shockey (88) reacts while waiting for his next repetition during afternoon football practice at the team's training facility in Metairie, La., Friday, June 5, 2009. (AP Photo/Bill Haber)

Browse more photos »

You may not believe this but my off-season cautious optimism just took a big shot in the arm today and has now dropped all the way down to just slightly optimistic. Baby steps here people. Truth be told, it didn't really matter what happened out there on the field today I was just glad to see some Saints football. Any Who Dat would have been excited.

But seriously folks, there was a lot to be happy about yesterday afternoon and it was for obvious reasons. I'm about to say something you've been hearing quite a lot this off-season but that doesn't make it any less true: this defense is different. And it's a good different.

I know, I know. I sound like a broken mainstream media record but it's true. Probably the most interesting observation of the day was what I saw from the guys wearing black. They showed a few different looks, one or two of which had Shanle and sometimes Fujita up at the line and Vilma dropping back into coverage. Not surprising given what we learned about Gregg Williams and his schemes. The defense was also employing some unique blitz packages utilizing cornerbacks and safeties, one of which led to what would have surely been a Joey Harrington sack by a DB (maybe Chris Reis). Pretty complex stuff for minicamp! The stench of Gary Gibbs is definitely long gone.

Something else I wasn't used to seeing from the Saints defense that impressed me was their seeming ability to better get in position. More than once was a defender - Roman Harper is coming to mind - in the right place at the right time and ready to snuff out the play or end it quickly with a well-timed hit. Some of those offensive guys are lucky yesterday's practice was no contact. It's that last point, however, that brings me back to reality. These guys were just wearing shorts so I take everything yesterday with a grain of salt. Finishing the play is a whole other issue but it's great to see that everything appears to at least be on the right track.

So what's the bottom line? This years defense will certainly be more exciting and fun to watch so get ready. But better? Still too early to tell.

You know I like to roll bullet-style so why change a good thing. Here are the rest of my notes:

I was surprised to see so many people in attendance especially given it was the middle of a weekday. All seats were filled and latecomers had to stand. Getting their early was definitely wise.
I'm not sure why but I was surprised to see food (and alcohol), merchandise and solicitation tents lined up for business. It was like a miniature outdoor version of the Superdome concourse.
Notice you didn't hear any of the traditional "I can't believe how hot it is" cliches from the media and players. The weather was perfect. Just perfect.
Meachem drew the first reaction from the crowd when he dropped an easy pass in the wide open flat. There were grumblings.
One thing we can't see during these no-pads practices is tackling. Still no idea whether or not these ankle biters have improved in the weak tackling department.
Shockey looked pretty good out there. A leaping catch over the middle followed by a tuck and roll drew applause from the crowd. A lot of people in the audience were discussing "Dehydrationgate."
Not much to see from Colston or Moore yesterday.
There was a quick little scrap following a play during offense vs. defense work. Couldn't tell who it was.
I think it's a bit hard to really tell how well the running backs looked. They may be breaking through the line but with no tackling it's too far from actual game situations.
The cornerback mix was interesting. Gay and Greer were getting reps with the first team today. Greer I understand but Gay I don't. Tracy Porter and Leigh Torrence were with the second team. Jason David the third team. Don't forget that Malcolm Jenkins will be added to the mix as well. Very cool.
Garrett Hartley only saw a minute or so of action but he was perfect every time.
Colston and Henderson botched the exchange on a double reverse that illicited a reaction from the crowd. Other than that play Henderson caught everything else thrown his way.
Colston is a tall dude. Fujita is a big dude. Jason David...not so much.
Apparently injuries are still something Saints fans need to worry about. I didn't see it but Dan Morgan left early with with a calf injury and Dan Campbell missed practice with a knee injury.

Sorry to say I have to work tomorrow so I won't be able to make it out there for round two. To make up for it, I have included the rest of my pictures from yesterday's minicamp after the jump. Enjoy, then discuss. You must discuss.

Meal ticket.

No fun!

The grounds.

I guess you would call this a fieldhouse? Maybe?

Always a merch tent.

The crowd.

Even more crowd.

Roster handout. Alphabetically on one side, numerically on the other. In case you were wondering.

Food and beer. They think of everything!

The eye in the sky. Seriously, that thing was up there.

One on one.

Robert Meachem vs. Jabari Greer

Robert Meachem.

Reggie Bush.

Not sure. I think Devery Henderson.

A light jog.

Footwork.

Defense stretch.

Now offense stretch.

Reggie Bush and Heath Evans.

The Accused.

The media.

Pierre Thomas.

Meachem missing a diving catch.

Hartley like it's his job. Oh wait.

The boss man making sure everyone is having a good time.

Scott Fujita vs. Anthony Waters in one on one drills.

The receiving corp.

Rita gave me a closeup.

Jonathan Goodwin and Carl Nicks. This is a multimillion dollar organization, can't we get these guys some jersey's that fit.

Jonathan Vilma.

Jeremy Shockey was a real jokester the whole time.

Jammal Brown.

Adrian Arrington.

Transcript of Sean Payton's Minicamp Press Conference

Saintsational — Fri, 05 Jun 2009 23:03:28 -0000

Per the Times-Pic.

Opening Statement:

"The one player that wasn't here was Thomas Morstead, our punter. He was excused for a funeral and he'll be getting back tonight. It was our first morning of the minicamp and so far, so good. We just have a lot of work ahead of us."

How do you prepare for the looming four-game suspensions for Charles Grant and Will Smith?

"One of the things we'll do out here is to rotate the order of how these guys are getting reps. In minicamp here, with eight more OTAs, all of training camp - we have a lot of time to mix up the repetitions and we'll be mindful of that."

Are you comfortable with the personnel you have behind those guys heading into the season?

"Yes. Purposefully we've been able to go out and acquire some guys at that position and get some depth, some guys with experience. We'll be prepared."

Did Marques Colston have a setback or do you just decide to hold him out this morning?

"With him and Reggie (Bush) both, we're just gradually increasing their workload. Both of them are getting some work in after practice. They're at that stage where we just don't want them getting tangled up in a drill. We'll be smart and continue to increase their workload as we see fit. There hasn't been any setback."

Do you still have Reggie Bush and Lance Moore penciled in as your top punt returners?

"Obviously we're going to look at Reggie; we're going to look at Lance Moore; we're going to look at Skyler Green; we're going to look at Tracy Porter and Jason David. So if you look at five right now that are going to be getting some reps along with some of these younger guys, that's how it will start off."

So you're not shying away from having Bush and Moore back there?

"Not at all."

How has Darren Sharper fit in with the defense so far?

"So far pretty well. He obviously has a lot of experience and he's been here throughout the whole offseason as we've added and really installed the new defense. He's been involved with it just like everyone else. It's not like some of these new players coming in are behind because we're really looking at a new installation for everybody. He's been able to handle it from the beginning."

Is it the same for Jabari Greer?

"Yes, it's the same for Jabari and really quite honestly for all the veteran players that have been here."

What have you seen from Anthony Hargrove and Paul Spicer so far?

"Both of those players have played in the league and have experience. They're different types of players; Spicer is someone that we feel like is stout at the point of attack and plays the run well. Anthony Hargrove is someone that can get up the field and rush the passer. Their skill sets are a little different and yet they are at key positions for us, especially if we're looking at possibly losing some players to start the year."

When you bring those guys in, do they know about the possible suspensions for the other players?

"I think so. I think they're aware of it. The better question would be, 'Are we bringing those two players in if that looming suspension doesn't sit out there?' And the answer to that would be, probably yes."

It looked like Devery Henderson has improved on catching the ball cleanly. Have you seen that?

"I think that's accurate. He's taking some reps at 'X' right now, which is really the other side of the formation with Marques (Colston) not going full-speed yet. It's helpful when you can move him a little bit. Certainly he knows the 'Z' position, but outside of the specific position, he's catching it cleanly and playing with confidence and he's done a good job. He had a good morning practice today."

Is this the Jeremy Shockey that you wanted to get, the player we saw on the field today?

"It was our first practice and he's healthy, so you were able to see him move around better. But it's early and we'll see."

Is he as healthy right now as he has been since you traded for him?

"I think that's true. He came here off the injury in New York and then he had the sports hernia. There has been enough time between both of those injuries now to where if he's not 100 percent, he's getting back into a rhythm."

Has he been at the OTAs?

"We had four OTAs that he was excused from. I use that term although he doesn't have to be excused from them. There were four OTAs that he wasn't able to be at, and we're here at minicamp with eight more OTAs left."

What has been your early evaluation of having Tracy Porter back on the field?

"It's a big plus having him back. We felt like he was playing at a pretty high level when he got injured and he's certainly going to be in the mix at the corner position. We feel like he has a good skill set and understands the defense. He has good cover skills and range and it's a big plus."

How does Dan Morgan look right now?

"He's picking things up pretty quickly and he seems to be moving real well. His movement skills have been real impressive and that's encouraging."

This will be the fourth straight year of sellouts at the Superdome. What are your thoughts on that?

"It's a credit to our fan base. To some degree, the fan base has shifted a little bit after '06 and regionally you're seeing not only the local fans from New Orleans but more of the state, you're seeing Mississippi, you're seeing Florida, Alabama and that's all a positive thing, especially with the economy now. I think the fans are pretty smart in their decisions as to how they want to spend their money and it's a positive for the organization. It just keeps getting back to putting the right product on the field and certainly we're appreciative of it."

What happened to Darnell Dinkins and did Adrian Arrington hurt himself out there?

"Arrington is coming off a hamstring from the last OTA so we really didn't see him do much except for the walkthroughs. We feel like we'll have more of him here in the next two weeks. Dinkins and (Dan) Campbell were the two guys that got nicked up a little bit. Dinkins looked like he twisted his ankle and Campbell twisted his knee so we'll get those two guys examined. But Arrington had a hamstring from our last OTA practice."

Have you seen progress from Robert Meachem?

"Yes. He's healthy and he has a real good grasp of what we're doing. He's someone that has been involved the whole offseason and is playing with a lot more confidence."

There were a couple of skirmishes out there this morning. Does that just show the players are feisty and ready to compete?

"I think that's fairly common when you get together here and you start working against each other. The key is just being smart and understanding what time of the year we're at. We have a long way to go."

What was your reaction to Shockey's hospitalization? Did you talk to him?

"No, I didn't. I'm sure I'll have a chance to visit with him here. Really, outside of that, I know it happened on the weekend and out of town. What's important is that he's healthy and he gets back to what we're doing here and getting on the same page with what we're doing offensively and our quarterback. These repetitions for him - not only at the minicamp but at these next OTAs - are going to be important, especially coming off his injury."

Are you happy with his attitude throughout the offseason?

"This is the first offseason to my knowledge that he's been around and been working. I would speak first from a group standpoint and I say this at the team meeting last night, we have a chance to where we're over 35 players now that are over 100 percent of the workouts and that's probably double where we have been in the last two or three years. This is the first year where everyone has been here; in other words we haven't had a player holding out or not involved. There are various degrees of how much each player has been involved, but overall it has been our best offseason by far."

In the practices that we've seen it's looked like Dan Campbell has been catching the ball well and looks smooth out there. Is that what you've seen?

"He catches it well. I don't know about looking smooth, but he catches it well. He's someone I'm familiar with; obviously we had him in New York. He's a guy that gives you a presence in his blocking. He's strong at the point of attack in the run game, he can block defensive ends in the passing game, and he's functional as a receiver, which is important. If you look at his assets or his skill sets, it would start with his ability to block in the run and the pass. He made a real nice catch out here in the one drill."

How much catch-up will Malcolm Jenkins have to play when he finally gets back here?

"Fortunately, he has graduated and he's flying in tonight. He was able to get his exams done and he'll be in tonight and you guys will see him on the field tomorrow. That's pretty important. That gives us Saturday, it gives us Sunday and that gives us all these OTAs coming up, and he's already been at the rookie minicamp. I think the learning curve for him will be smaller than it would have been had he had to wait longer."

Did Mike Bell seem impressive to you out there?

"He has been doing well. He's done a good job. He still hasn't been here a full year but he knows what we're doing. He's big and he's a guy that is relatively young when you look at the age of a running back. He's someone that is in the mix and will have a lot of opportunities."

Considering Rob Ninkovich's ability to play defensive end, do you think this will be the most competitive battle you've had at long snapper here?

"One of the things that we've looked at with Rob is making sure that his focal point starts with being a snapper and then having the flexibility of being able to play on the defensive line. You're seeing him spend more and more time with the specialists than maybe in years past or when he was in Miami. You're always trying to develop that position and have depth at that position and have competition, and I think we have that right now. We'll see how that plays out."

Do you have him listed as a long snapper more than a defensive end now?

"I think that would be fair to say right now, long snapper first. With the depth at defensive end, it gives him the opportunity and the flexibility to go play on defense, but still that's the mindset as to how he's going to make the team."

Will you give that job to whoever performs best as a long snapper or does Ninkovich have an edge because he can do two things?

"We still have to look at the results at the position and make sure that whoever is our long snapper is someone that we have confidence in. Obviously it's an added bonus if a guy can play another position on the field because you're always looking to see how many snaps we can get these guys in when it comes to the game. That will factor in, but it still starts with snapping."

A Few Pictures from Today's Minicamp

Saintsational — Fri, 05 Jun 2009 22:55:26 -0000

Here are just a few teasers from today. I will post the rest later.

Shockey. Believe it or not, the dude was talking about drinking daquiri's. Go figure.

Saints 2009 Position Battles: Wide Receiver

Saintsational — Sun, 03 May 2009 12:00:16 -0000

Now that the roster is pretty much set for training camp and rookie mini-camps have started across the league (why are the Saints always the last to do things?), it's time to start taking an early look at the roster as we inch ever so closer to training camp and the 2009 pre-season. Each post in this series will examine a different position on the team and offer a preview of what fans can expect as players battle it out. First up are the wide receivers.

Before we get started the first thing we need to do is meet our lovely contestants. Here is who the Saints have competing for a spot this year so far:

Player	Height	Weight	Age	Experience
Marques Colston	6'4"	225	25	4
Lance Moore	5'9"	190	25	4
Devery Henderson	5'11"	200	27	6
Robert Meachem	6'2"	210	24	3
Adrian Arrington	6' 3"	192	23	2
Courtney Roby	6'0"	189	26	4
Skyler Green	5'9"	190	24	3
Biren Ealy	6' 3"	207	24	2
Ken Harris	6'3"	208	23	R
Matt Simon	6'1"	206	23	R
Chris Vaughn	6'3"	224	24	R

With the release of David Patten this off-season the receiving squad's average age has dropped significantly. There is no real veteran presence. In fact, with six years of experience, Devery Henderson is now the veteran receiver of the team. I'm not sure whether that's a good thing or a bad thing. The best news is that all of these guys are in the prime of their careers.

Unlike last year when it was uncertain just which players might actually make the squad, this years crop seems a bit easier to predict. Out of the eleven players listed only five, maybe six will make the final roster. At first glance I think most of us would agree exactly which players will make the cut: Marques Colston, Lance Moore, Devery Henderson, Robert Meachem and Adrian Arrington. Wow...that was easy. There might be some shuffling around as far as the depth chart is concerned but it will most likely be within the framework of those five players. Maybe, and that's a big maybe, Meachem or Arrington could be knocked out of a spot but that would take an impressive performance. As far as these top five guys are concerned, it's their job to lose.

The rest of the receivers looking to make the team have a tough road ahead of them and are on the outside looking in. We know what we can expect from Skyler Green and Courtney Roby, both of whom are on the bubble. Special teams could be the difference-maker and I think that would give Roby - because of his kick return ability - the edge if the team decided to go with a sixth player.

But it's undrafted free agents Ken Harris, Matt Simon and Chris Vaughn as well as sophomore receiver Biren Ealy who are the relative unknowns. Payton and company have always done a swell job of finding talent in the most peculiar of places and one of these guys could be the next Lance Moore. If anyone is going to supplant one of the top five receivers it's probably going to come from an unexpected place like one of these players.

What are your thoughts? Will any of the other receivers have a chance at making the team? Will special teams make a difference? Will Meachem or Arrington lose their spot in the top five?

Poll

Do you think Colston, Moore, Henderson, Meachem and Arrington will all make the team?

Yes

1103 votes

No

97 votes

1200 votes | Poll has closed