Saints Game Changing Off-Season Moves: Clint Ingram Enters the Picture

by Dave Cariello on Jun 21, 2010 6:00 AM CDT

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Today's game changing move is the one I'm probably most excited about this off-season because of the fact that it both fills a position of need for the Saints and has the makings of being a significant upgrade. It also has the makings of being a complete bust. Still, for some reason, I'm unusually optimistic. If you haven't figured it out already, I am referring to the acquisition of free agent linebacker Clint Ingram from the Jacksonville Jaguars almost a month ago to the day and I think it's going to work out just splendidly.

To be honest, I wasn't always feeling so positive about this move. You'll remember before the signing, my little scouting report didn't portray such an impressive specimen. After hearing from Ingram himself, however, I quickly changed my tune. Here are a few reasons why I grow to like the move day by day:

He is a former Gregg Williams player
The Saints showed a little confidence by signing him to a multi-year contract
He's only 27 years old, right in the meaty part of the age curve
Before a nagging ankle injury, he showed a lot of promise
Expectations aren't high and he's flown under the radar; the stage is set for a surprise

Are any of those reasons very solid? Ummmm...no, not really. I'm sure you guys can come up with plenty of your own valid reasons to the contrary and I look forward to hearing them. But with Scott Fujita now out of the picture, I've got to admit I'm a little bit nervous about the future of the position; perhaps my fear has willed me to believe that Clint Ingram is, in fact, the answer.

Whatever the reason, I've just got a feeling about this one. Sometimes you've just got to go with your gut. Fortunately, the Saints have been making more good moves than bad lately; the odds are in my favor. So add me to The List, Stuart ol' boy, and bookmark this page for future reference because I'm going on record to say I think Clint Ingram is going to be just the guy we wanted.

Your opinions are welcome as always.

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I 2nd that

For some reason or another I have been excited about that move since I heard about it. Especially since he is coming from a system where he had his best season when he was with GW. I also have a good feeling about Stanley Arnoux stealing some playing time from Shanle. We should have one of the better LB groups if this does happen.

by J Rock on Jun 21, 2010 7:34 AM CDT reply actions

I am more excited about the linebackers coming off IR

even if they are inexperienced, I think by midseason that at least one of them will be getting some playing time.

by xen-cuts on Jun 21, 2010 10:04 AM CDT reply actions

i agree with you

while ingram was a good pickup to give us some veteran experience at the position, i think the youth and potential of guys like dunbar and arnoux will be most beneficial.

by saintfever09 on Jun 21, 2010 10:52 AM CDT up reply actions

Nervous about Linebackers still...

You are right, the stage is set. I think Ingram will have an opportunity to surprise us all and be incredible, but I am still nervous about him and our linebacker core in general (besides Vilma). It’s the glaring weak spot on the team; they are good at coverage, but they are shakey at stopping the run. Why is no one (incluing the Saints) looking at Adalius Thomas? I attributed his crappy season to Bellicheck issues rather than performance. Or is he just too old at this point?

"Get me a Gatorade with electrolytes."
-Will Smith

by Who Dat Patate on Jun 21, 2010 10:47 AM CDT reply actions

I think he has problems with not giving enough effort.

What were the contract terms for ingram again?

by ReggieVilma on Jun 21, 2010 12:14 PM CDT via mobile up reply actions

i'm not sold on Ingram still

i’m still hoping that Arnoux will be the answer at least for a year or two then we need to draft a stud LB in the first round and let Arnoux/Shanle battle it out for the other LB spot next season.

Superbowl bound!!!...I know! do you?! Go Saints!!

by skinnykinney on Jun 22, 2010 4:20 PM CDT reply actions