The New Orleans Saints have begun minicamp and there are a number of storylines to focus on as we continue to progress through the summer. Things can be expected to intensify as we continue through minicamp.
The New Orleans hit the field Tuesday for the first time since wrapping up OTA offseason workouts last Thursday. The overall look is promising for the Saints entering the minicamp considering they are low on injuries and players and coaches are all hands on deck for the camp .
Drew Brees looked good primarily on short throws and intermediate passes downfield. However, Brees had to do so without his top target, Wide receiver Michael Thomas who missed the first day of camp. Also, Running back Mark Ingram returned to practice after missing most of OTAs. Alvin Kamara had good showing on some carries and catches out the backfield as well.
Defensively, the Saints are off to a strong start. The defensive line looked strong and the secondary gave up no deep or long plays.
Free Agent Running back Jamaal Charles is scheduled to meet with the team this week . The 4-time Pro Bowler may be a player on the Saints radar seeing how Pro Bowl running back Mark Ingram will miss the first four games of the season on a suspension for violating league policy on performance-enhancing drugs.
Now following the release of Tight End Coby Fleener, the Saints have brought back tight end Benjamin Watson who not only brings a reliable aspect to the team, but feels a veteran leadership role on the offense that can prove to be very beneficial for younger players.
With all these different variables at hand entering minicamp, it’ll be interesting to see how Sean Payton keeps his team organized and focus on the tasks that’ll present themselves.
Minicamp practices ran on Tuesday and Wednesday, June 12 & 13, but were unfortunately canceled on Thursday, June 14.
