Well today is the 1st day of Training Camp for the Black & Gold and the start of something new for our boys... Defending a Championship. Of course the pundits are already saying that we need to see lots of energy on the first day to determine if we are serious about defending the Title. I say RIDICULOUS! Anyone with half a brain will tell you that you know absolutely SQUAT after the very first practice. We will have a more solid idea around the end of August after a couple of preseason games under our belt...Enough said about that.
A few players to keep your eye on during the preseason warm ups...Patrick Ramsey for one will have to prove he is no Joey Harrington. Otherwise Chase Daniel with a year in the system under his belt could easily win the backup position...don't believe all that BS about needing experience behind Drew. We all know if Drew goes down for any considerable period of time our shot at repeating will be just as challenging no matter who's under center. I don't buy in to that "we need a veteran" stuff. What we need is a capable QB that will run our system and manage the game with as few mistakes as possible and use the talent around him to win games. I am still on the fence as to whether that individual must be a veteran. Ultimately, the preseason should tells us who will do the best job. Sean Canfield will have to show quite a lot to keep himself off the developmental squad.
Another player to watch is the continuing development of number 30, Lynell Hamilton. He really finished the season strong which made letting Bell go to the Eagles easier to stomach. Hamilton is a tough kid and should secure his place behind Pierre Thomas. We know he will get a lot more touches this year than last. Whlie we are talking running backs don't be surprised if P.J. Hill makes the team this year. The kid had a strong preseason last year and just got caught up in the numbers.
Barring any injures the Saints will keep 3 tight ends...Shockey, Thomas, and of course the rookie Jimmy Graham. Look for Graham to get lots of playing time in the preseason. He will be basically taking a crash course in Football 101.
On the Defensive Side of the ball Gregg Williams will be looking for the most aggressive and intelligent players of the assembled cast. There will be some new names that make the team. Players to watch...At Linebacker look for Stanley Arnoux to push for a spot on the roster. Although injured last year the Saints like this kid and he will get a fair shot. Dunbar and Casillas have shown flashes. The Saints have 9 Linebackers in camp and only 6 will make the team. This will be a tough cut for a couple of players...Along the defensive line the Saints are deep and this will also be a tough cut. Look for Al Woods to make the developmental squad unless injuries occur...At defensive back again plenty of depth. I would like to see Chris Reis return to the type of player he was his rookie season when he intercepted 2 passes in preseason and was all over the field. Unfortunately for Reis, if he doesn't come on strong in camp and preseason this year he will succumb to the Turk. With Malcolm Jenkins moving to safety along with Usama Young, Reis is a bubble guy. Also, on the bubble is Roman Harper. He still made a lot of mistakes last year and he is another player that has not shown a lot since his rookie year. Of course Darren Sharper's health will play a big part in what happens with these players chances.
So, there you have it...my prognostication of the coming Training Camp watches. Give me your opinions. Let's hear what you have to say.
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