SBNation.com User Blog: LocoSaint

The Right Direction

LocoSaint — Thu, 22 Jul 2010 03:04:22 -0000

How long have we all been asking about where this team is going? Since the end of last season, with our embarrassing playoff exit against the Nuggets, most of us were left scratching our heads and freaking out because our team underachieved. What was going to happen to Scott? We realized how bad the contracts were and how constrained the team was with the salary situation. We just got slapped in the face with reality.

Probably about a month goes by into free agency and we're still worried about what it going to happen. Will Tyson get traded? Will we get any players in free agency? Will Scott and Bower return for another go-round? Well Tyson got traded for Emeka Okafor, which I still approve of, and we signed Ike Diogu in free agency. Not to mention we drafted Darren Collison and stole Marcus Thornton from the Heat. So it appeared that we might be okay to start the season, but there was still some skepticism about the lineup. Sual'Bop was gone in a salary dump so that left Mo Pete to start at shooting guard which all of us hated. We were glad to see Julian finally crack the starting lineup and put Peja in a better suited 6th man role. So, we were feeling quite optimistic.

Then reality slapped us once again. Julian is an awful basketball player. Mo Pete is just plain awful. Diogu was done for the season. Bobby Brown was getting waaaaayy too many minutes. Byron was not working as this team's coach; always going with very bad veterans over promising rookies. Nothing was working or going our way. So, in come Bower and Floyd to coach the team.

Things went well, but still not up to any expectations or fulfillment of our desires. Chris Paul was injured for what seemed like eternity, twice. Peja was out also. Okafor wasn't playing many minutes, and time after time we saw James Posey and Songaila manning the front court. Then, on top of everything, George Shinn is diagnosed with cancer, and thus the world of the Hornets is sent into a downward spiral of chaos. But there was still hope.

Darren Collison proved to be a more than adequate point guard running the show. Learning on the job, while also showing a real skill set of a great player. He was all over it. Marcus Thornton came in with him. Our scrappy scoring machine who even won dunk of the night after a vicious slam on Gerald Wallace. Thornton proved to be one of the best scorers and craftiest players in the game and certainly set an excellent foundation to build off of. Two awesome rookies is always something to be excited about.

The season ended, we missed the playoffs, and the spiraling to the abyss continued. Everyone wanted Bower gone at some point. We were sick of everything and immediately we were Googling lists of 2010 NBA free agents and overloading the ESPN NBA Trade Machine to try to find a solution to fix the roster. Everything from salary dumps, to trading CP3, to landing LBJ, was hypothesized. No one was content with what we had in any part of the team or organization. Then, we got a bit of good news.

George Shinn was selling the team to minority owner Gary Chouest. This was wonderful news. Chouest would undoubtedly keep the team in the city while also having deeper pockets (allegedly) to spend more money on players to win, even if it meant going over the luxury tax threshold. Unfortunately, the transfer process hit a snag, once again sending all of us into that spiral that I've been talking about.

Then the coaching search commenced. The process was drawn out for what seemed like an eternity. Everyone from Mike Fratello to Avery Johnson was interviewed and in the end it came down to just two. Tom Thibodeau of the Celtics and Monty Williams of the Trail Blazers. We would be fine with either, but pretty much everyone wanted Thibodeau over Williams because he was more proven. The Hornets wanted him too, but he didn't want the Hornets, so he held out for that interview with the Bulls and took his dream job, leaving us to take the young gun known as Montgomery Williams. That was a good move. It was endorsed by Chris Paul, so it had to be a good move.

Then came the draft and endless speculation about free agency and trades. First, Collison trades starting popping up, perhaps putting him with a bad contract to get average players. Then some David West idea, however those were significantly less. Then the real deal, CP3 rumors. That was the worst. Scratch that, the second worst thing we had heard so far. The worst part was that Bower would not deny that Chris Paul could be had. So, endless speculation came about Chris Paul being traded, reports coming out how he wanted out. Everything imaginable. He was almost dealt to the Trail Blazers, and thankfully the trade fell through because it helped quantify what it's like to trade an elite, star player; the trade off would never be even. Draft night comes, and we started with just one pick, number 11. We took Cole Aldrich, but he wasn't truly ours. He and Mo Pete were sent off to the OKC for picks 21 and 26, and that was an AWESOME move. We picked up Craig Brackins and Quincy Pondexter. I was ecstatic with the picks, especially Pondexter, but others (you know who you are) were not thrilled with Brackins. Immediately, people googled his name and stats and saw that he wasn't very efficient and this and that and blah blah blah. The pick was made, like it or love it. Brackins has a ton of potential, and Quincy Pondexter is the future of the position for our team, no doubt. I viewed (and still view) the trade as one that dumped a salary in order to get two talents for the price of one, big win for us, and a nice move by Bower.

Then it came. The giant beast which we all feared. -GULP- Free agency. Well what did the Hornets do? Nothing. They brought in Luther Head, a solid addition, then... fired Jeff Bower? What? In the middle of the biggest freaking free agency ever? The Luther Head thing didn't work out because he "failed" a physical, raising questions for at least two days then people stopped caring because it's just Luther Head. But what now? Who was going to run this joint? The front office must be nuts if they fire their big guy at such a time, right? Possibly, but what they did was act quickly. We all cried for Kevin Pritchard, myself included, and it might have happened, but that would have been the easy way out. This guy got good players and made great deals, but did he have any experience with a championship team that he helped build? Nope, but he was the flashy pick, and the Hornets stayed away.

While all of this was happening reports were swirling that Chouest and Shinn weren't even on speaking terms because they were "millions apart on negotiations", quickly and efficiently though, this mess was cleaned up. Both owners issued statements saying that they have been talking frequently and working diligently with one another in every move from coaching interviews to player scouting. So things settled down on that topic, but the decision was still looming on who would be the GM. Then today the announcement was made, Dell Demps director of pro personnel of the San Antonio Spurs was hired. A guy that knows what about building championship teams. Such an awesome move. The Hornets again go with the edgy pick, they even beat out Phoenix to get him.

So let's look at things as we stand. The front office is once again in order and all of the staff is set with fresh new minds and ideas. We have two promising rookies and a good team coming back with more experience and health. We have a new coach ready to show the NBA what he can do. We have a promising transfer of ownership that WILL happen eventually (those kinds of things take time). We didn't splurge or overpay for mediocre players. Not to mention we have the greatest point guard in all the land in Chris Paul. Now we are locked and loaded to make moves, and suddenly that spiral to the abyss doesn't seem to exist anymore. The light at the end of the tunnel is here and only beginning because through the darkness, the Hornets have moved in the right direction.

Hornets Re-Sign Aaron Gray

LocoSaint — Sun, 11 Jul 2010 19:51:41 -0000

Hornets Re-Sign Aaron Gray

Re-signed to a two year deal. I think he's a better fit at backup than several other options out there. Continuity helps, and his size does too.

Saints claim RB P.J. Hill off of waivers

LocoSaint — Tue, 04 May 2010 22:17:19 -0000

Saints claim RB P.J. Hill off of waivers

Per a Jeff Duncan tweet and Rotoworld-

Saints claimed RB P.J. Hill off waivers from the Redskins.
Hill signed with the Saints out of Wisconsin last offseason, but he was plucked off the practice squad by the Eagles in October. Keep an eye on Hill's progress this summer, as he has the potential to vulture short-yardage duties if he makes the team.

John Henderson being released

LocoSaint — Mon, 26 Apr 2010 16:10:47 -0000

John Henderson being released

The Jaguars will release DT John Henderson on Monday, according to ESPN's Adam Schefter.
Changes are afoot in Jacksonville. The team will also withdraw its restricted free agent tender to LB Clint Ingram, making him an unrestricted free agent. Henderson was replaced by surprise top-ten pick Tyson Alualu, while Ingram was displaced by Kirk Morrison. Henderson will get a job shortly. The 31-year-old is no longer a big sack threat, but remains an effective run defender.

A Very Optimistic Grading of this Draft

LocoSaint — Sun, 25 Apr 2010 18:50:54 -0000

Lots of people were not happy about this draft because we didn't draft for need, and we didn't get pass rushers. If we would have drafted for specifically need, then we're doing something wrong. That would result in reaches for players who may never even see the field. Anyway, how often do we ever draft specifically based on need? That's not what Loomis does, and this year I think will be one of the best drafts in our team history because there is so much upside, and every player has potential to be a significant starter somewhere down the line. On the pick analysis.

Round 1- Patrick Robinson, CB, Florida State- Two years ago he was one of the best CBs in the country. He was racking up stats like crazy and truly showing that he would be a shutdown corner in the future. But, from there his potential was stunted. Due to atrocious coaching at FSU he was basically being forced to show new guys how to play the position even though his learning hadn't been completed yet. He was asked to take care of all assignments in the secondary, and he was forced into situations where he had no choice. Robinson has the size, speed, ability, and mechanics to be an amazing corner in this league, but his situation made him look bad. Not to mention he adds depth for our dynamic corner tandem in case one goes down, and we all know how bad it is without them. His acquisition allows us even more freedom with coverage and blitz packages, and one of our young OLBs will emerge as a pass rusher to do so.

Grade: A

Round 2- Charles Brown, OT, USC- I'd say he was the steal of the draft. He's got immense potential and has consistently been a very good player. He's excellent in pass protection and excels in run blocking, and there's no better place for him to come in and polish those skills that here. He carried a first round grade and possesses All-Pro potential because of his athleticism and good technique. He gives us the future of the left tackle position, and allows us to move Jamaal Brown for a good player or pick, albeit of lesser value since we've lost a bit of leverage. Excellent pick and possibly a starter as soon as mid-season or the beginning of the 2011 season.

Grade: A+

Round 3- Jimmy Graham, TE, Miami- He's got loads of potential. Probably the 2nd most athletic guy in the draft behind Jason Pierre-Paul. He's huge, 6'6" 260 lbs, and also has a solid record playing basketball. He has only one year of college football experience though, which is what makes some people think he's a reach, well he's not. He had 17 catches last season and 5 went for touchdowns. He's a redzone threat from day one. Luckily for him he gets to learn from a former Miami Hurricane tight end in Jeremy Shockey. He wasn't brought in to be an instant contributor, and that's why Mel Kiper thinks he was a reach over Dennis Pitta and Garrett Graham, but that's not why we drafted him. He's in a great situation here with the Saints' exceptional coaching staff and veterans who are willing to help him reach his potential. Clearly this is a Dynasty pick, and taking a guy with Antonio Gates or Tony Gonzales upside is quite exciting.

Grade: B+

Round 4- Al Woods, DT/NT, LSU- He was the first "need position" pick of the draft. Woods is a guy who underachieved in college despite having tremendous upside and potential. If any of you are familiar with LSU football, you're probably able to understand why he never reached his potential. When Bo Pelini left, the defense fell apart. The next season, LSU tried a tag-team coordination with Bradley Peveto and Doug Mallory, which failed horribly. Then they hired John Chavis from Tennessee, and he produced yet another stinker of a year for the talent-laden Tigers. No one helped Woods reach his potential, and they lost that coaching when Pelini left, and he's one of the best defensive line coaches around right now considering he's coached up TWO TOP FIVE DEFENSIVE TACKLES in Ndamukong Suh and Glenn Dorsey. Woods will be able to take his time and learn under Gregg Williams and line coach Bill Johnson and hopefully reach that level of potential that he's got. He might crack the starting lineup this season, but he won't have to. That's the beauty of a dynasty pick. Potential is key, but the coaching and the situation has to be right, and it's all right over here.

Grade- A

Round 5- Matt Tennant, OC/OG, Boston College- Another dynasty pick, but tremendous value. He was the 2nd best center in the draft according to most scouts, and possesses the ability to play at guard or center. For a few more years he'll be a valuable swing lineman who can fill in an play with no drop off in offensive production. He's extremely durable and amazingly consistent. He's certain to be Goodwin's replacement in a few years.

Grade- A+

Round 7- Sean Canfield, QB, Oregon State- Canfield is a pet project for Payton, who might be the replacement for Brees in 6-100 years. He's got all the things Payton looks for in QBs with his accuracy, game management, decision-making, and leadership skills, but his lack of arm strength is something he needs to work on, and he'll have plenty of time to work on that. He's in the best situation he could be in for a student role behind the best QB in the NFL. I thought there might have been better prospects out there, but if Payton wants him, I'd trust him because he knows a bit more about quarterbacks than I do. But the major thing that I dislike about him is that he wasn't spectacular and seems to be a QB that comes in and throws to a check-down receiver every play. He's not gutsy in my opinion, and I wouldn't be surprised if he gets cut or placed on the practice squad before the regular season.

Even optimistically I don't care so much for this pick, he would have been around after the draft, so this seems like a bit of a waste. Not a fan, and that's why the grade is so low.

Grade- D-

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The picks may seem edgy and flashy at first, but they're actually great picks. While they may not have filled many positions of need, they did help solidify the fact that the Saints are going to be legit contenders for a title for many years to come. Our Superbowl season was not just a flash in the pan, and these picks will prove that in the coming years, so keep the faith my fellow Who Dats and remember TWO DAT!

My Round 1 Sleeper Picks

LocoSaint — Thu, 22 Apr 2010 20:50:57 -0000

Predicting a draft pick is near impossible to do. Especially at number 32 when your front office is notorious for moving around or going with the best player available on their draft board. We've been mocking defensive tackles, ends, linebackers, and even guard/centers. But I'm willing to go out and put a few guys' names out there that my surprise us a little bit. JUMP!

Starting with defense. While we could use a player at pretty much any defensive position, our deepest spot is probably cornerback. So my first sleeper pick is...

Kyle Wilson, CB, Boise State- With Malcolm Jenkins the likely successor to the Darren Sharper throne, that 3rd corner spot is going to be mighty empty. Both of our starting corners have a bit of an injury history, but there's little doubting that they're arguably the best starting tandem in the league. Wilson could step right in and there would be little to no drop off in pass protection. He also dabbles in punt returns and could act as Reggie Bush insurance in that area.

Now for offense! Yes, offense. Payton and Loomis are not gun shy when it comes to BPA, even if it means taking a WR even if their defense sucked the season before (see Robert Meachem pick, 2007 Draft). So I will start with a WR.

Dez Bryant, WR, Oklahoma State- Bryant's stock has been everywhere leading up to the draft, but frankly I think he's got top-10 talent and is one of the most impressive receivers to come out in recent years. While receiver is probably the deepest position on this team, I think the offense could be even BETTER, yes, better, than it has ever been. Colston has somewhat regressed from his first two stellar seasons, partly due to injury, and has gone through some drop issues. Bryant could come in and be a game breaker from as soon as game 1, but he's going to have to absolutely show he's legit by being a man in this league.
Mike Iupati or Maurkice Pouncey, OG/OC- These guys are absolute marvels with their size and versatility. They could solidify any offensive line for the next 10 years and are widely considered top-20 picks, but if they should fall to us, I wouldn't doubt us picking them.
Ryan Matthews, RB, Fresno State- Matthews is probably the best every-down running back in this draft. Everything he does is so natural that it's scary. He reminds me of Donald Brown last year, but he's also got an essence of power to his game, which is an aspect the Saints like in their backs. They've shown that they aren't afraid to take RBs even with some on the roster, and I wouldn't be surprised to see them pull the trigger if Matthews should slip to them.
Jermaine Gresham, TE, Oklahoma- His stock has been mainly in the 20-25 range, but I've seen some speculation that he could slip to round 2. Tight end is a need on this team, and Gresham is the best in this draft. Shockey has been somewhat of a disappointment with injuries and not the production we were expecting, but his blocking skills have fallen off a bit, too. Gresham, when healthy, has the game breaking ability that terrifies safeties and linebackers that have to cover him. With talent like his, I see him as our possible Number 1 sleeper in this year's first round.

Well that's pretty much all I've got, so it remains to be seen what will happen. I've also got a few OT picks ready in case Jammal Brown heads out, so there could be some updates. Feel free to state your opinions! WHO DAT!?

I love the Saints.

LocoSaint — Thu, 08 Apr 2010 03:44:27 -0000

There is not one thing I love more than to see a team like this. From top to bottom, this whole organization is first class, grade-A quality. The players actually want to be here, they love football, they love the city, and they love us the fans. As fans there is nothing more we could ask from people like these. They really are role models, and we should thank Sean Payton and Mickey Loomis for ALWAYS putting character first. Seeing the reaction Alex Brown had when he agreed to become a Saint is really something amazing. Not only does it speak highly of the Saint, but it makes us as fans feel loved, and that's what's important to us. I love the Saints.

Next Season. Be the GM, what should the Hornets do?

LocoSaint — Tue, 30 Mar 2010 22:20:09 -0000

Title explains itself. You give your scenario for a fix, because what we've got now ain't working. Being the GM would actually work, considering Bower will be gone next season, as well as much of the coaching staff. Robert Pack, on the other hand has done a marvelous job with these guards, and deserves a lot of credit for what they've done. I want top to bottom analysis, and stuff I can read for hours. GM away!

Adam "Pacman" Jones

LocoSaint — Sat, 20 Mar 2010 15:49:19 -0000

Well, well, well look who just had a private pro-day workout in front of five NFL teams yesterday at Hahnville High School. Pacman himself appears to be on a mission to get himself straightened out, and it appears that the Saints are interested, and you've got to think that Jones is interested too, considering he's familiar with the area and he decided to work out down here. We all know what Pacman does, some good and some bad (that's kind of an understatement), but should the Saints give him a shot if he really has turned it around? Let the opinions flow.

Ray Edwards

LocoSaint — Fri, 12 Mar 2010 23:18:50 -0000

As we've seen lately, the Saints have been looking for some help at defensive help. Mainly looking at old guys that played for the Rams last season, to be more accurate. Those two guys are James Hall and Leonard Little, and while both of them would be solid pickups as rotational linemen, I'm not so sure it really answers our HUGE question at who will start opposite Will Smith next season. One name has been floating around cyberspace though, and it's Ray Edwards. The Vikings only tendered him with a first round pick, and honestly I think that's a bargain for him. More after the jump.

via cdn.bleacherreport.com

Ray Edwards had a pretty solid regular season, not exactly stunning or great, but it wasn't bad. A notable stat on Edwards though is what he did in the post season. In one game against the Cowboys in the Divisional Round of the NFC Playoffs, Edwards lit up lil' Tony Romo THREE times. Now I do understand that the Cowboy's line isn't exactly the best, but they're not that bad and Edwards really let the hammer down in that game. The next week he came down into our house and dropped Drew Brees once, which is by no means an easy task. It seemed like when it mattered, Edwards turned it on and let loose the dogs. The interesting thing is this quote he had from an interview back in February:

"[Coach Brad Childress] actually said, basically just to be blunt, that they were going to tender me. 'I know it's not the raise you're looking for, but basically there's nothing you can do about it.' I mean, he's right because if another team doesn't value my talents and what I can do, that's basically what it is."

Does that mean that the Vikings aren't all that high on Ray, and would be willing to let him go simply for a first rounder? If I were the Saints, and I saw quite what may or may not be available at the 32nd pick in the draft, I'd pull the trigger and sign this guy to an offer sheet.

The 6'5" 260-pounder is only 25 and still has an immense amount of potential. He may have started to truly realize what he had under the hood in the playoffs last season, and coming to a team that has proven they can get there and win it, he may actually like the idea of playing here. He's about three years older than most rookies, but he's undoubtedly got the same amount of potential as most, and on top of that he has a decent body of work thus far. Of course all of this is speculative, and more likely than not he'll be back in Minnesota, where Brett Favre plans on leading his team to yet another season that ends in heartbreak. I honestly think that if Favre leaves, it'll be his fault they do poorly, and if he stays it'll be his fault once again. So, how about it? Ray Edwards anyone?

Interesting Free Agents

LocoSaint — Fri, 05 Mar 2010 23:05:27 -0000

UPDATE: Lito Sheppard is off the list! It is safe to read!

While we sit here in the severely limited area of being a final four team, it leaves us fans, bloggers, and general football people into wondering who our team could possibly sign to make this team better. You may ask yourself who in God's name is out there that we could sign that would bring anything to this team? I have possibly thought of a reasonable way to work around this limitation and see what we've got. So I've compiled a list of new free agents that have been RELEASED by their teams, making them eligible to sign with any team (including final 8 teams) without anyone giving anyone up.

It's worth noting that most of the guys on this list would be situational players or backups if they came to this team. I'm saying this so no one comes down on me saying how they could possibly be any help as a starter. So I shall begin!

Will Witherspoon, linebacker. Witherspoon has the wonderful gift of intelligence. He's not going to "wow" you by any means athletically or statistically, but he possesses the unique ability to play every linebacker position in a 4-3, and could benefit the Saints well as a potential fourth linebacker, taking Mark Simoneau's spot, or as a stop-gap in case we should lose out on UFA Scott Fujita. Witherspoon still possesses the ability to be a starter on a bunch of teams, but he's not really anything too amazing. On the other hand, neither are either of our current OLBs. Not to say I'm hating on them or saying they suck, I just think they're adequate players of their positions and excel in some areas while dropping off in others.
Joey Porter, linebacker. This one is sure to fire some people up, but I'm just throwing this possibility out there. The Saints need a rush linebacker, and Porter is the best one available to us at the moment. He's got a ton of character issues since he's one of the league's biggest divas, but he has consistently brought the thunder in the sack area, even in a reserve role last season with the Dolphins. He could be a valuable part to what projects as being a not-so-great pass rushing defense (again) next year, considering the loss of Grant, the underwhelming season by McCray, and the potential loss of Fujita. While I HIGHLY doubt he'll be wearing the Black and Gold next year, there's always a possibility, and he could help us, even though he's coming from a 3-4.
Jake Delhomme, quarterback. Let's start with saying he was an interception MACHINE last year, but so was Jay Cutler, and he's still on a team. Delhomme's days of being a potential starter in this league are still there, but I certainly think he'd opt for a backup role for his hometown team. He may not be the sexiest choice ever, but they guy isn't totally inept at the position. He's still got some ability left in him, and based on what Brunell has done (or not done) for this team, I don't see any way that he'd be a bad choice for us. He had an awfully pathetic season, but a lot can be blamed on that line. They lost their elite left tackle with a broken leg, and the whole line just gave up on blocking for him. So, I think a player with his experience and knowledge of the game can give us a boost, while at the same time not being fragile and generally crappy overall. I'd much rather have Delhomme as a band-aid should Brees go down than little lefty Mark Brunell, but we'll see what the team thinks.
Since everyone pretty much seems to agree with each other that an empty space is better than Lito Sheppard, I've come up with a few more possibilities at cornerback, but I'm not so sure if they'll be available to us considering our situation because they were not released and are traditional free agents. Benny Sapp and Rod Hood. Hood I'm sure was released, so he is definitely a possibility, but Sapp was not. Rod Hood and Sapp both are very unique players. They're not full season starters, and they're not number one corners, but they're both solid, hard-nosed football players who have stepped their game up when they had to. Hood stepped up and was playing great football in his short stint with the Titans, but was cut when the ancient Nick Harper came back from injury, only to stink up the joint. Sapp also played great when asked to step in for Antoine Winfield. They do things that the corners we currently have don't; they step up when they are asked to. Either of these guys could be a nice asset to our team, but I think the likelihood of them coming down here is slim.

This list will grow, so check back for updates.

UPDATE: Lito Sheppard is off the list! It is safe to read!

Will Witherspoon, linebacker. Witherspoon has the wonderful gift of intelligence. He's not going to "wow" you by any means athletically or statistically, but he possesses the unique ability to play every linebacker position in a 4-3, and could benefit the Saints well as a potential fourth linebacker, taking Mark Simoneau's spot, or as a stop-gap in case we should lose out on UFA Scott Fujita. Witherspoon still possesses the ability to be a starter on a bunch of teams, but he's not really anything too amazing. On the other hand, neither are either of our current OLBs. Not to say I'm hating on them or saying they suck, I just think they're adequate players of their positions and excel in some areas while dropping off in others.
Joey Porter, linebacker. This one is sure to fire some people up, but I'm just throwing this possibility out there. The Saints need a rush linebacker, and Porter is the best one available to us at the moment. He's got a ton of character issues since he's one of the league's biggest divas, but he has consistently brought the thunder in the sack area, even in a reserve role last season with the Dolphins. He could be a valuable part to what projects as being a not-so-great pass rushing defense (again) next year, considering the loss of Grant, the underwhelming season by McCray, and the potential loss of Fujita. While I HIGHLY doubt he'll be wearing the Black and Gold next year, there's always a possibility, and he could help us, even though he's coming from a 3-4.
Jake Delhomme, quarterback. Let's start with saying he was an interception MACHINE last year, but so was Jay Cutler, and he's still on a team. Delhomme's days of being a potential starter in this league are still there, but I certainly think he'd opt for a backup role for his hometown team. He may not be the sexiest choice ever, but they guy isn't totally inept at the position. He's still got some ability left in him, and based on what Brunell has done (or not done) for this team, I don't see any way that he'd be a bad choice for us. He had an awfully pathetic season, but a lot can be blamed on that line. They lost their elite left tackle with a broken leg, and the whole line just gave up on blocking for him. So, I think a player with his experience and knowledge of the game can give us a boost, while at the same time not being fragile and generally crappy overall. I'd much rather have Delhomme as a band-aid should Brees go down than little lefty Mark Brunell, but we'll see what the team thinks.
Since everyone pretty much seems to agree with each other that an empty space is better than Lito Sheppard, I've come up with a few more possibilities at cornerback, but I'm not so sure if they'll be available to us considering our situation because they were not released and are traditional free agents. Benny Sapp and Rod Hood. Hood I'm sure was released, so he is definitely a possibility, but Sapp was not. Rod Hood and Sapp both are very unique players. They're not full season starters, and they're not number one corners, but they're both solid, hard-nosed football players who have stepped their game up when they had to. Hood stepped up and was playing great football in his short stint with the Titans, but was cut when the ancient Nick Harper came back from injury, only to stink up the joint. Sapp also played great when asked to step in for Antoine Winfield. They do things that the corners we currently have don't; they step up when they are asked to. Either of these guys could be a nice asset to our team, but I think the likelihood of them coming down here is slim.

This list will grow, so check back for updates.

Saints should draft a QB!

LocoSaint — Wed, 03 Mar 2010 00:45:38 -0000

In the 4th round though. I think behind the top 2 QBs, the next best one (potential wise) is a very physically gifted player from an unknown school. His name is John Skelton, and he absolutely shredded up D-IAA while playing at tiny Fordham University. Leading the division in total yards and yards per game (passing of course), he has several attributes that set him apart from other prospects. While other QBs behind Bradford and Clausen are before Skelton in some areas, his body of work and room to grow has to leave a bunch of teams watering at the mouth.

via upload.wikimedia.org

Let's start with his size.

6'5" 244 lbs

That's ridiculous. He's got the size of a starting caliber QB, but what about his arm?

Makes 50 yard throws effortlessly, accurate on short, mid- and long range passes. His deep balls don't hang. Passes sometimes wobbly, but stay on target. Throws from multiple angles. Quick release.

Ohhhh it only gets better. Let's go to accuracy and decision making.

2009 Passer rating: 150.05. 64.4% completion rate. 3,713 passing yards. 26 TDs and 10 interceptions. Scouts note that he will often go through his second and third progressions and go to a check-down, underneath receiver if the deep ball isn't there.

Now that's something you like to hear. He does have some issues with throwing off his back foot and relying on arm strength a bit too often, while also trusting his receivers too much with jump balls, but this guy looks and sounds like a Sean Payton guy. One more area I would like to touch on before I conclude. Intangibles.

In 2009 alone he had 86 rushing attempts for 348 yards and 5 TDs, in his career he was 296 for 1216 and TDs. Skelton played in 43 total games and has no serious or minor injury issues. He's also a quiet media person, but a high quality and high energy leader and teammate.

So he can run too eh? He's humble to the media, and a leader in the locker room and on the field? He's a high character player, that's what he is, and he brings some versatility too. Sounds like a Sean Payton guy to me. I would absolutely take this guy. He brings a ton of value, especially as a mid-round pick, not to mention he will fill a need. The Saints need a backup QB that isn't only a "system" guy. They need one who can mix things up a bit if he has to start in a pinch, and I believe Skelton can be that guy. Sure, defense would be nice in this round and in every round, but you also have to give the offense some love. Not to mention, we need some stuff to speculate and talk about in a few years when the Saints will start looking for Drew's successor, because remember he is 30 years old, and he's in his prime, so he doesn't have much time left. So, the the opinions rain!

Who was the key to our run defense?

LocoSaint — Sun, 28 Feb 2010 17:29:36 -0000

Once upon a time, our New Orleans Saints had a great run defense. We would give running teams like the Falcons and Vikings serious fits because they just could not get past the first line of defense. Of course, when they did getpast that line, 100% of the time they would either break it for a ridiculous homerun touchdown, or get stopped just shy of that homerun by a lucky defensive back. What I'm trying to say is that when it comes to stopping the run, we're either pitching a no-hitter, or we're giving up runs left and right.

However, I will say that on occasion, when the run defense absolutely had to step up, they certainly did, but if they would just play to the same level the whole time, maybe they wouldn't have to play inspired football. They keys to our run defense are a couple of guys who will surprise you very much (or maybe not), so just bear with me until I can state the point. The two key guys to our great run defense are... Kendrick Clancy and Charles Grant? Exactly.

via cm1.theinsider.com via upload.wikimedia.org

Let me start by defending Clancy. I have always been a fan of this guy. He came to this team, seemingly out of nowhere, and became a starter. In 2008, when he got to showcase his true skills as a run stuffer, he performed exceedingly well. Now, I'm not saying he made TFLs on every snap, but he did his job and then some on virtually every down. What Clancy does is the most vital and important part of what goes down when stopping the run. He plays the nose tackle position, and his job is to anchor down and contain the double team, while the other DT applies pressure from the middle and potentially gets a sack or TFL. This is the formula you need in order to have a good defensive line in a 4-3 set, at least in terms of stopping the run. When Clancy went down with injuries, the run defense was struggling mightily trying to find someone else on the roster or in free agency who could anchor down the middle, the problem was that no one was there, so the Saints had to live with it, basically playing with 3 men in a 4 man front. We have to face it, Sedrick Ellis cannot reach his potential as a player without a big, anchoring nose tackle next to him, so I believe the Saints will find a way to get the big man they need to fill that hole, by way of the draft. I would bring Clancy back however, not to be a starter, because he's too old and injury prone, but to be a rotational guy that can stop the run.

Now for the part about Grant. While he doesn't do much about runs up the gut, he was Scott Shanle's best friend when guys ran to his side. Grant, while he doesn't provide much in the pass rush area, is a beast when it comes to stopping the run. While I think his size and talents would suit better as an end in a 3-4 defense, he's stuck in a 4-3 (maybe not for much longer though). Grant was superb at fighting off of blocks and getting to the outside runner, and on occasion he would get a TFL. He's a very stout and wide player, but he isn't fast or explosive enough to be the pass rusher which his contract would indicate, however when he is not in the lineup, the opposing teams' rushing offense tends to be up much higher for several reasons. First, Bobby McCray is a fine back-up and situational pass rusher, but is not an every down player, and certainly a liability in the run defense department, and when he was asked to fill in for Grant, he didn't really do much of anything. Secondly, when runners should get past McCray or whoever was filling in for the injured Grant, Scott Shanle was found way out of his element. While Shanle is among the best cover linebackers in the league, he does not have the instincts and ability to come off blocks in order to be a run stopper. He was a huge reason why we saw so many runs get busted for long gains and touchdowns. Shanle would too many times get lost in the sea of blockers and allow the runner to get through an ailing defensive line, past his ineffective linebacking defense, and to an unsuspecting secondary that has trouble stopping the run.

So, believe it or not, our run defense is at its best when two unheralded players are out there on the field. Let the opinions fly!

via cm1.theinsider.com via upload.wikimedia.org

So, believe it or not, our run defense is at its best when two unheralded players are out there on the field. Let the opinions fly!

Necessary Moves, Part 2: DEs

LocoSaint — Fri, 19 Feb 2010 00:44:04 -0000

Did you hear the news? Will Smith has no one to help him on the other side. Grant was invisible for most of the season, then when he had a good game he got injured and landed on IR. Bobby McCray proved that he's not an every down guy and no other end on the team is even worth more than a special teamer or rare rotational guy. So what we need is another guy that can consistently put pressure on the QB that is quick and strong.Two free agents that come to mind would be Aaron Kampman and Ray Edwards, but the likelihood of the Saints getting either of them or even going for them is not very strong, so we'll move on from the free agent section to the trade possibility section.

Let me debunk this Julius Peppers talk; he's not coming here. First off, if he's a free agent we can't get him anyway, secondly, if we should trade for him it will cost us a lot of valuable things, so let's stay clear from Peppers, who could be a nice addition, but is not worth the price tag. So what other trades are out there? Well, there's no blockbuster trades, but we could potentially get something out of a trade with the Falcons for Jamaal Anderson. Maybe a 6th rounder because that's all he's really worth. He still has a lot of potential, but the Falcons will never get it out of him because they just don't have the coaching staff to do it. At this point though, I doubt he can be much more that a situational player, but still that's better than what we already have. We could also maybe swing a trade for Cliff Avril in Detroit because why shouldn't we get to join in on the fun of picking on the weak teams and steal their good players? Maybe even steal some players away from the Raiders too while we're at it. If that's the case, let's get Trevor Scott and give them speedster WR Rod Harper who's been on IR all season, sounds fair to me, concerning the Raiders of course.

Let us now look at the draft that is LOADED with defensive ends this year. In round 1, we could end up taking a player like Corey Wootton, Everson Griffen, or even Brandon Graham (who I think CAN play defensive end in a 4-3). In round 2 there will be guys like Brandon Lang, George Selvie, Greg Hardy, and Alex Carrington. All of whom can come in and start immediately, and probably make a fairly large impact. So, I would imagine that going into next season, we will be set at defensive end too.

Necessary moves on Defense. Part 1: DT

LocoSaint — Wed, 17 Feb 2010 23:55:52 -0000

Seeing as the Saints still have a lot of holes to fill on defense let's talk about what they should do about them. If you ask me I would say we have gaping holes at defensive tackle, defensive end, outside linebacker, and nickelback. First I'm gonna talk about why we need help at each position, then say what we can do to address it in the draft, free agency, or the trade market.

Starting at defensive tackle. We only have 1 worthy of starting on our roster and he's not reaching his full potential without another quality guy next to him. There are several options we could look at this offseason, starting with trade possibilities. When I think of solid and sometimes disruptive defensive tackles that we could get our hands on, I see a couple of guys that used to play together. John Henderson or Marcus Stroud. Either of those guys would fit perfectly as an anchor that can be disruptive at the same time because they're both massive bodies who use their talents very well. Not only do they fill specific needs, but they are definitely obtainable. We have a trading chip that could interest them, and strangely that chip is Charles Grant. The Bills are moving to a 3-4 and they need a defensive end that can seal the edge and stop the run, there's Charles Grant. That's all he really does, and on occasion he can get to the quarterback. It's the perfect fit for Grant because he won't have to worry about sack production or weight as much because his job pretty much needs him to be big and not always rush the passer. While his paycheck may be big, the Bills can cover it up if their move to a 3-4 is successful, even though they had a great defense in a 4-3.

The Jacksonville trade would be a bit different because it would probably take more than just Grant to get John Henderson who is significantly better than Marcus Stroud. I would say to throw in Randall Gay because honestly he serves little to no help here (more on him in a sec). The Jags NEED a defensive end who can actually rush the passer and get some sacks. Grant showed that he still can do it, but needs to be heavily motivated. It could really pay off for the Jags because they need help in the secondary, and I think Gay should move to safety anyway because his corner cover skills have deteriorated. These possibilities are just a couple of many, but these make the most sense. Oh, I might as well throw in the possible Grant for Dorsey deal, also a strong possibility.

So that leaves the draft. There are oodles and oodles of really good defensive tackles in the draft, but I don't think any of the first round talent will fall to us at 32. So that leaves us with choices in the second round and back. While Terrence Cody has dropped off quite a bit, I don't think he's fallen far enough for us to get him in the second round, but there is a guy that could be available and would be a perfect fit. Cam Thomas out of UNC was part of that very physical defensive front that the Tar Heels had this year. He's a monstrous guy at 6'3", 330 pounds, but he moves well inside and can anchor down and hold a double team while Sedrick Ellis and Will Smith put pressure on the QB. Thomas may not be the pick in round 2 because there's always the possibility of Arthur Jones continuing to fall, who when healthy and motivated, is a first round talent that can pressure and stop the run. Other interesting prospects include D'Anthony Smith, Torrell Troup, and Gene Atkins. All in all, I think we will be very well set at the defensive tackle position come next season.

Part 2: DEs is coming soon. As for now, I expect you all to critique this and pick it apart. 3.2.1. GO!

We Bleed Black and Gold

LocoSaint — Mon, 25 Jan 2010 04:40:14 -0000

I'm not the only one at a loss for words am I? My house, my street, my city erupted with joy. A weight that has bared down on this city and these fans for over 40 years has finally been lifted. A new breath of life has been brought into the spirit of New Orleans and the Saints. This was a game for the ages. The best football game I have ever seen. Ever. Even on those NFL replays from back in the day. The emotion in this game was everywhere. I have been waiting for this moment for a while, but I can't even begin to imagine what it feels like for the fans that have been there since game one. Everything this team and city has gone through, no other team in the world deserves it more. Reflective questions after the jump

Was there really any doubt that we could win this game?
The end of the Favre fiasco may have ended by the team and fans that are the most aggravated by him.
I hope the Vikings aren't sponsored by Butterfinger.
Did anyone expect the defense to win this game?
Should we give a ring to Brett Favre when we win the Superbowl?
Is there enough alcohol for all the thirsty fans on Bourbon?
When Favre threw that pick, was it just by coincidence, or was some outside omniscient power responsible?
Why not us?

Poll

Who does the game ball go to?

Tracy Porter

2 votes

Drew Brees

2 votes

Garrett Hartley

8 votes

Jonathan Vilma

3 votes

Pierre Thomas

1 votes

The blunders by Brett Favre and the Vikings.

3 votes

19 votes | Poll has closed

Solutions!?

LocoSaint — Wed, 04 Nov 2009 02:17:09 -0000

Clearly this team is in a state of confusion. They have no identity on any part of the game, and I believe that has a lot to do with the coaching of this team. I would like to present a few options that may get us a step closer to becoming a better team. While most of this is unlikely as George Shinn is a failure as an owner, I can still fantasize right?

First and foremost we must fire Byron Scott to give our guys enough time to learn a new system that hopeful replacement Rob Werdann or Robert Pack would place
I would try to find some potential trade partners for guys like Jim Posey (I call him Jim now because he's only a shell of the player he used to be, so it's not really fair to call him by a name he no longer truly plays to), Morris Peterson, and David West. Now the reason I threw West in there is because we have Ike Diogu who has proven when he has starters minutes, he can play huge on offense, defense, and in the rebounding department. Ike is still young and has a much upside as anyone in the NBA.
Now if i was to trade David West I'd look to get as much value for him as I could possibly get. I'd definitely try to get an atheltic 2 guard that can play or a true center (Sam Dalembert?) and Meka Tron could move to a better suited PF spot. Heck maybe try to get both! Don't get me wrong, I love DWest, but he doesn't play defense and if he's not hitting that midrange jumper then he will struggle for points all night.
Some guys I'd be looking at for trade would be Thaddeus Young, Samuel Dalembert, Andris Biedrins, Kelenna Azubuike, and A.I. (mainly as a stop-gap until Thornton is ready)
Next I would bench Bobby Brown and put Collison in. Collison is more a true point guard, Bobby Brown plays like a ball hogging shooting guard in the body of a PG, therefore he is no PG.
After I did that, I'd let Marcus Thornton fight for a starting job. A guy with this much potential shouldn't be rotting away on the bench, he needs to be getting live reps.
I would also get Darius Songaila much more involved. This guy is a chippy guy who can play the 3,4, or 5. I'm not sure exactly what Scott has been using him as in his offensive schemes, but it's not suiting him. Get Songaila on the block or let him post up, he plays down low, not it the grey area where Scott has placed him.
Next, I'd MAKE Julian Wright get involved. All too often he becomes completely invisible in games, and thats not what starters do. Now I'm willing to put much of this on Scott's misuse of Julian in his position on the court, but he needs to get more involved. I'd work diligently on working up plays to get him free in the lane, ready for the lob and slam. Not to mention, he has been nailing open shots unlike some people *cough*Bobby Brown, Jim Posey, Morris Peterson, David West*cough*. Woo, ahem, must've swallowed a fly right there.
And the last adjustment I'd make is to yell at Hilton whenever he's on the floor at all times, just to remind him to keep his head in the game. If he could somehow manage to put it together this guy could be sooooooo good. I'd also tell him to stop taking jumpshots, even if they are open, because that's really just not his thing.

So with all of that being said I would like to make a dream depth chart!

Point Guard!: The Great, Goodly, and Godly 6 Footer, out of Wake Forest, Number 3, CHRIS PAUL!, spelled by Darren Collison, replaced by only in an emergency Bobby Brown

Shooting Guard!: The New Orleans Native and "Young" Gunner THADDEUS YOUUUUUNG! (or Kelenna Azubuike!), backed up by the other Louisiana Native Marcus Thornton!, backed up by Devin Brown(!?)

Small Forward!: The Feisty Slam Jammin, Shot Shootin, Rotin Tootin Julian Wright!, followed by your 6th man of the year candidate, The Serbian Assassin, PEJA STOJACAVIC!

Power Forward!: Making a recent switch in position, at 6-10 out of Conneticutm the Nigerian Nuke Bomb, EMEKA OKAFOR!!!, followed by Ike Diogu!, followed by Darius Songaila!

Center!: The newest big man on the block in the BIG Easy, the Haitian Sensation SAMUEL DALEMBERT!, followed by Hilton Armstrong, and Sean Marks

And standing at 6-11, 240 pounds out of St. John's University, your new head coach, ROB WERDANN!

GEAUX HORNETS!!!

...oh how I would love to hear that at the beginning of every home game...

First and foremost we must fire Byron Scott to give our guys enough time to learn a new system that hopeful replacement Rob Werdann or Robert Pack would place
I would try to find some potential trade partners for guys like Jim Posey (I call him Jim now because he's only a shell of the player he used to be, so it's not really fair to call him by a name he no longer truly plays to), Morris Peterson, and David West. Now the reason I threw West in there is because we have Ike Diogu who has proven when he has starters minutes, he can play huge on offense, defense, and in the rebounding department. Ike is still young and has a much upside as anyone in the NBA.
Now if i was to trade David West I'd look to get as much value for him as I could possibly get. I'd definitely try to get an atheltic 2 guard that can play or a true center (Sam Dalembert?) and Meka Tron could move to a better suited PF spot. Heck maybe try to get both! Don't get me wrong, I love DWest, but he doesn't play defense and if he's not hitting that midrange jumper then he will struggle for points all night.
Some guys I'd be looking at for trade would be Thaddeus Young, Samuel Dalembert, Andris Biedrins, Kelenna Azubuike, and A.I. (mainly as a stop-gap until Thornton is ready)
Next I would bench Bobby Brown and put Collison in. Collison is more a true point guard, Bobby Brown plays like a ball hogging shooting guard in the body of a PG, therefore he is no PG.
After I did that, I'd let Marcus Thornton fight for a starting job. A guy with this much potential shouldn't be rotting away on the bench, he needs to be getting live reps.
I would also get Darius Songaila much more involved. This guy is a chippy guy who can play the 3,4, or 5. I'm not sure exactly what Scott has been using him as in his offensive schemes, but it's not suiting him. Get Songaila on the block or let him post up, he plays down low, not it the grey area where Scott has placed him.
Next, I'd MAKE Julian Wright get involved. All too often he becomes completely invisible in games, and thats not what starters do. Now I'm willing to put much of this on Scott's misuse of Julian in his position on the court, but he needs to get more involved. I'd work diligently on working up plays to get him free in the lane, ready for the lob and slam. Not to mention, he has been nailing open shots unlike some people *cough*Bobby Brown, Jim Posey, Morris Peterson, David West*cough*. Woo, ahem, must've swallowed a fly right there.
And the last adjustment I'd make is to yell at Hilton whenever he's on the floor at all times, just to remind him to keep his head in the game. If he could somehow manage to put it together this guy could be sooooooo good. I'd also tell him to stop taking jumpshots, even if they are open, because that's really just not his thing.