I forget to tell you guys about this yesterday even though I knew about it. Amid the signings of our draft picks, the Saints also released a few players. Once again, the New Orleans Saints official website gently breaks the news to us by subtly hiding it at the end of a positive article.

The Saints also made three other roster moves today, waiving CB Anwar Phillips, QB Travis Lulay and DE Jeremy Geathers.

The staff over at The Advocate have come out with the ultimate Saints training camp preview, putting all over training camp preview to shame. They are Adobe Acrobat files in .pdf format but they are cool with lots of fancy pictures. It also has full schedule, directions, players by position, coaching roster and 2007 statistics. You should definitely check it out. Here is page one and here is page two.

The Advocate also had an article about how all of the major NFL publications have predicted the Saints to win the division. Old news.

From the Sun Herald we have, shockingly, a training camp preview! They give us 10 questions the Saints will face in the next month. Of course most of them are the usual queries regarding Deuce, McKenzie, Reggie, Smith and Grant, cornerback, wide receiver, etc. Here are two of the more interesting questions.

6. Is Sean Payton on the hot seat? Nope. The 2008 roster is too talented not to succeed and Payton is too innovative not to figure out how to run this offense. Like Bush, Payton should be closer to the coach from 2006 than 2007. And think about it, Jim Haslett lasted for six seasons despite only one postseason win. Payton also isn't hanging his coaching career on an inept quarterback.

10. Are the Saints interested in Brett Favre? I think Drew Brees will do just fine and he'd at least call someone other than Greta Van Susteren if he has some beef with Saints General Manager Mickey Loomis. He'd at least call Larry King, Barbara Walters or New Orleans native Ellen Degeneres.

In case you wanted yet another training camp preview, you're in luck! The Sports network has their own. This is what they have to say.

REPORT DATES: Rookies July 23rd, Veterans July 23rd

SITE: Millsaps College, Jackson, MS/Saints Practice Facility, Metairie, LA

CAMP OBJECTIVES: The Saints were horrible against the pass last season, and head coach Sean Payton and defensive coordinator Gary Gibbs need to spend July and August identifying a reliable starting cornerback tandem. Free agent pick- ups Randall Gay (Patriots), Jerametrius Butler (Bills), and Aaron Glenn (Jaguars), and rookie Tracy Porter (Indiana) will be among those with a chance to win jobs. A below-average pass rush was bolstered via the addition of ex- Jaguar Bobby McCray, and first-round draft choice Sedrick Ellis (USC) will be counted on to show progress in the run-stopping game. There isn't much new to speak of on offense for New Orleans, though Payton needs to see progress from Reggie Bush and suitable health from Deuce McAllister in order to take some pressure off of the passing game. Speaking of which, New Orleans must locate a reliable complement to No. 1 wideout Marques Colston, who bore too much of the receiving load last year.

This will soon be all over.

The Times-Pic had a short article about Drew Brees' time in San Diego and his  community efforts to raise awareness about childhood obesity.  I discussed this event yesterday in Saints News. Okay, so I didn't actually mention the community/raising awareness aspect of it, so here it is.

"This is important because childhood obesity in this country is a major problem," said Brees, a former San Diego Chargers player who still owns an offseason home in Carmel Valley, Calif. "When you talk about this Play 60 campaign, it's urging kids to get out 60 minutes a day and get some form of exercise. It can be sports-related -- whether playing a sport or a hobby -- or just playing out in the yard with their brothers, sisters, parents or friends."

CBS Sports had an update to their usual Notes and Quotes segment. Here was an interesting fact I did not know.

Each team was allowed to distribute $3.15 million to lower-salaried players, depending on the playing time they got last season. Eight Saints received at least $100,000, which is awarded on top of their base pay.

Evans earned $266,667 and ranked ninth in the league. Colston was 11th with $257,894 in extra pay. Both players had base salaries of $360,000.

The Saints' top five also included wide receiver Lance Moore ($143,226), safety Josh Bullocks ($130,456) and running back Pierre Thomas ($129,775).

They also had a quote from Deuce that didn't look familiar to me.

"I'm proud and pleased with (my progress). I don't know if there's really a 'next benchmark' to be met on my part. It's pretty much getting out there and trying to make plays. That's what I am looking forward to."

Some of you wanted more Archie and you've got it. I love Archie just as much as the next guy, and I am never really insulting him, but it is ridiculous the amount of appearances he does. This time it was with former NY city mayor Rudy Guiliani at a conference for the employees of Northwestern Mutual Life Insurance Co. The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel had the story. Archie had some words of wisdom for everyone.

"I really think, at the end of the day, that's what we come down to, whether we're selling insurance or practicing law or medicine or playing football - you've got to work," Manning said. "To me, that's really the similarity we all go through in our free enterprise system."

Another Kush spotting. This time it was at a Matt Leinart charity bowling event. You can check out a couple of pics I posted in the FanShots. What the heck is the deal with the military inspired clothing Reggie has been sporting? That is the second outfit like that he has been photographed in. Is this the new thing? I run a retail apparel store, do I need to be keeping my eye on this? Weird.

We all know about the draft pick signings so I will just start with the rest of the news.

Well, its official. Tom Benson is now the head honcho over at WVUE. The Times-Pic had the quick story.

After two months, the Federal Communications Commission has approved Tom Benson and his Louisiana Media Company to officially take ownership of WVUE-TV, which is Fox 8, it was announced today.

"This is a proud day for me, and a good day for the city of New Orleans," Benson said. "It's important to keep major employers in this city owned by local people - I believe that is a key factor in rebuilding our area. And WVUE will be a completely independent entity from my other businesses. We have a very good management team there, and they will operate independently as such with no pressure or agenda placed upon them."

It is ridiculous how many training camp/team analysis type articles there are out there. They come out of the woodwork from all types of websites. Everyone's an expert.

Here is one from EndZoneBuzz.com.

New Orleans Saints

Why They Might Win the Division
Drew Brees still leads the attack at QB and they have a plethora of receiving weapons. New Orleans also added Jonathan Vilma to the linebacking crew, and Sedrick Ellis at defensive tackle, to play next to their two talented defensive ends in Will Smith and Charles Grant.

Why They Might Not Win the Division
Right now, RB Reggie Bush is a good slot receiver, and nothing more. He simply has to become a more effective runner out of the backfield in order for them to truly excel. And that secondary which was so hideous last season is still a major concern.

Yet another look into training camp. This one is all the way from Arizona at AZCentral.com.

New Orleans Saints (7-9)

Veterans report: July 23

Site: Millsaps College, Jackson, Miss.

Fan access: Free, most practices open to the public; 504-733-0255

Key changes: The biggest addition was LBJonathan Vilma to man the middle. The Saints also traded up three spots in the draft to select DT Sedrick Ellis at No. 7. C Jeff Faine left as a free agent for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. CBs Randall Gay and Aaron Glenn, signed in free agency, add depth.

Key issues: There's uncertainty in the backfield with RB Deuce McAllister coming off two knee surgeries and Reggie Bush's inability to show he can be the featured back. At cornerback, who will start opposite Mike McKenzie, who is recovering from knee surgery and may not be ready to start himself? Ellis and newly extended DE Will Smith are cogs along the line, but DE Charles Grant has off-field issues. And they must decide between sixth-round pick Taylor Melhlaff and Martin Gramatica at kicker.

ESPN has a question for the Saints heading into training camp.

Do the New Orleans Saints realize how important it is to get Sedrick Ellis into camp?
Ellis, New Orleans' No. 1 pick in this year's draft from USC, has value because he finally gives the Saints a big-bodied defensive tackle who can eat up blocks and free up DEs Charles Grant and Will Smith. Grant and Smith were consistently double-teamed last season because opposing offensive lines had no respect for the Saints' rotating bodies inside at DT. The Saints still have question marks at cornerback and they're not going away any time soon, but it is amazing how pass-rush pressure can suddenly make mediocre corners better football players. With an offense well-equipped to bounce back, Ellis and the Saints' D-line could be the key to the whole season.

I agree with this one. I would love to see the Saints get Ellis under contract this week, but I am afraid he and Tracy Porter will be the last two to sign.

The Sporting News ranked the top ten offensive tackles in the league. Fortunately for us, and Drew, the Saints own Jammal Brown was on that list.

7. Jammal Brown, New Orleans Saints. If not for his struggles early last season, he might be rated higher here. In his defense, he is still adjusting to his move to left tackle, but he came on strong in the second half of '07. Drew Brees rarely gets sacked, and Brown is a big reason why. He's also a dominant run blocker, which would be more prominent if the Saints get a healthy back to attack between the tackles.

Speaking of Drew, SignOnSanDiego.com (I always think of Anchorman) had an article about Drew and his feelings about leaving San Diego (It means a whales vagina) and being in New Orleans.

“I wasn't bitter,” said Brees, who yesterday was running about three dozen kids through their paces at Cathedral Catholic High as part of the NFL's Take a Player to School program. “Certainly, I felt like there was one person who didn't quite believe in me like the rest (of the Chargers). That's unfortunate.”

“Things have worked out for both sides,” said Brees, who spends “six to eight weeks” in San Diego, where he still owns a home. “I think he's (Rivers) done a good job. Look at the results. I'm happy for him. The Chargers have been successful the last few years and so have the Saints. New Orleans is a very special place. Things happen for a reason.

“I definitely wanted the Chargers to sign me back, but I signed with the Saints. It's like a calling.”

Call it a win-win situation.

Drew gets into some heavy stuff next.

“Winning the Payton Award is not a reward for what you do in the past,” Brees said. “There's a responsibility for what you do in the future. That's why we remain so active with the foundation. We support the league however we can. I love athletics. I want to leave the game better than I found it.

“God has a plan. There still are areas (in New Orleans) that look like a bomb went off yesterday. When we thought about where we were going to live, we tried to pick an area that hadn't been flooded. We bought a house that still had $52,000 worth of roof damage. We wanted to be in the middle of town. Right in the thick of it.”

It's funny because his house actually does flood when it rains very heavily. This article from ESPN proves it. Though it says his basement flooded, everyone from New Orleans knows there are no basements in NOLA. He is definitely in the thick of it.

In regards to playing his old team, this is what Mr. Perfect had to say.

“We're excited, obviously, but we still have a lot of games to play before that one,” he said. “I always hoped we'd come back here to play them. Maybe in four years. I still care about this community.

“There are some educated people in London who think New Orleans is still under water. This is a chance to show we're coming back.”

Is he like the perfect person or what? I really don't think Drew has a bad bone in his body. Am I too old to be adopted?

Apparently Thibodeaux, LA is a breeding ground for athletic trainers. I found this article from CSTV.com about athletic training students getting first hand experience working with NFL teams around the league during training camp, including our very own New Orleans Saints.

The New Orleans Saints will welcome Brett Chaisson, a senior from Thibodaux, La., while fellow NFC South member the Atlanta Falcons will have Scott Hebert, a senior from Galliano, La., to assist with their camp.

Traveling far away from the friendly confines of Thibodaux will be Nathan Quebedeaux, a senior from Hammond, La., and Dexter Charles, a senior from Thibodaux, La. Quebedeaux accepted an internship with the Detroit Lions, while Charles will assume the same role with the Arizona Cardinals.

There is a ridiculous amount of news to report today, so I am gonna make you jump over. This will also allow those fantasy football virgins and newbies to check out Stujo4's nice little introduction to flea flicker and fantasy football basics.

Continue reading this post »

Welcome to the Drew Brees edition of CSC's Saints News.

Starting us off is the Sporting News and their list of the Top 25 quarterbacks in the league. In the #4 spot is our very own Drew Brees.

4. Drew Brees, New Orleans Saints. A couple seasons removed from the Saints magical postseason run, some forget about Brees, but he is the straw that stirs one of the league's the most prolific passing attacks. Last year, he did it without a running game.

Have you noticed that he is always in the number four spot? He really should be #3, at the least. He is #1 in my heart.

More Drew Brees love coming from The Sporting News. This time they list their five players they would love to see win the Superbowl. You know who they want to see win it all.

2. Drew Brees, QB, New Orleans Saints. Brees should be seen as much more than the savior of the Saints' franchise -- his consistent excellence in San Diego and New Orleans the past four years puts him just a notch below Tom Brady and Peyton Manning.

Brees wasn't that far from the big game in 2006 when most of his key Saints teammates were healthy and provided great support. With a shorter injury report and an upgraded defense, the Saints have a chance to rebound big in '08. Brees was a prolific producer and winner in college, and his play is worthy of him breaking through now as a seasoned pro.

He really does deserve it. Certainly more than any of the other guys on the list in my opinion.

Just when you thought you couldn't get enough Drew in your diet, the Times-Pic brings you a little more. This quick article talks about his recent USO trip and why Drew is the greatest person, well...ever!

Okay, I'm not going to gush too much here, but have you ever noticed that Brees is always in the news, and it's always for something positive? I think Goodell should give this guy a medal (or at least a nice Christmas gift ... maybe a Wii?) for making his league look better in the wake of the Chris Henry/Pacman Jones tidal wave of negativity.

As for Brees, he apparently was tired of rescuing babies and solving world hunger and wanted to do something a little more low-key with his time by visiting troops in Afghanistan. Are you kidding me?

What a great credit to our city, and what a wonderful role model for our kids. You keep it up, Drew! (Okay, I lied about the gushing. Sorry.)

He is awesome, isn't he?

In other news, someone was released from the Saints yesterday and it wasn't Drew Brees. The New Orleans Saints official website reports that  the team has waived WR Titus Ryan, leaving them with 80 players on the active roster, the maximum number allowed by the league. They always seem to bury bad news like this at the very bottom of a contrastingly positive and upbeat story as if no one is going to notice it.

The Advocate released their five keys to success for the Saints to improve this year. Without further ado, here they are. Nothing earth-shattering here folks.

1. Do a better job against the pass.

2. Generate a better pass rush.

3. Create more turnovers.

4. Run the ball better.

5. Get more consistency out of the wide receivers.

There really is nothing to write about.

SaintsInsider.com opened up its mailbag and answered some questions from readers. Here are some of the highlights.

I don’t see any way this team finishes under .500 in 2008, unless it endures another rash of injuries or stumbles out of the gate. They’re my pick to win the division.

So is this is breakout year? Bush recommitted himself to the offseason program and by all accounts is in great shape. He appears primed to improve his per-season yardage numbers by at least 250 yards, and if he does I think he’ll improve his touchdown total and put himself in “breakout” territory. I think it has to happen this year or the Saints start re-thinking how they’ll use Bush.

It's gonna need some work. (Photo Source)

For those Saints fans who attend the home games, the Times-Pic has some good news you may like.

The state agency that runs the Louisiana Superdome and the New Orleans Arena has taken tentative steps toward purchasing a major piece of downtown real estate near the stadiums that eventually could become a glittering entertainment district with bars, sports-themed restaurants and other attractions.

The agency hopes by the end of the week to sign an option agreement for the New Orleans Centre, a group of three buildings that includes the Dominion Tower, the mall that once held the Lord & Taylor and Macy's stores, and a parking garage across the street from the Dome. The option gives the state 75 days to inspect the buildings, after which time it can purchase them or walk away from the deal with no obligation.

"We are excited about the potential to bring life to that part of the city, but we have a lot of work to do over the next 75 days, " said Ron Forman, chairman of the Louisiana Stadium and Exposition District,

"There has been no major development in this part of downtown since the mid-1980s, " Thornton said. "We have the potential to make a major investment."

You can also check out a cool training camp preview video in the multimedia section of the Saint official website. Sorry, there is no way to direct link it.

Today's Saints News segment was brought to you by...Drew Brees.

Sedrick Ellis and Tracy Porter will be the last two draft picks to be signed. So says Paul Lawrence, agent for Saints CB Tracy Porter, in an article from the Sun Herald. He also said that his client and the team were "not close" in terms of getting a deal done.

"Tracy and Sed will be the last two to sign," Lawrence said.

"The tougher of the two (Porter and Ellis) to sign will be Sed," Lawrence said.

Not worried about it.

I'm starting to get sick of the Manning's. (Photo Source)

The Monroe News Star had a pretty funny and insightful piece about, who else, the Manning's. They are seriously in danger of becoming over-exposed. If you didn't the Manning's were just the greatest, funniest, most talented family ever, than this article will set you straight. They are just good at everything they do yet they remain down to earth. Here are some of the funny parts.

Archie's tone included a chuckle, but you can tell winning and losing was a big deal. The former New Orleans Saint's 11 handicap was second-best in the group to 2007 Super Bowl champ Peyton's 6. Cooper, who Peyton jokingly described as a "social legend" at Ole Miss, and reigning Super Bowl champion quarterback, Eli, play to a 12.

Social legend? That's a nice way of saying party animal huh?

"Everybody wants to give me a hard time for kicking Eli in the backside and 'picking on little Eli,'" Peyton said. "Look, this guy is 230 pounds. He's solid rock. I said, 'before that, he's giving me a wet willie.'

"I tell the director 'don't we have that on film?' He said it's more authentic if he gets it in there every single time. Eli is just loving it. I got an ear infection doing the commercial."

"We mess with my dad," Eli said. "My dad is very neat and likes all the clothes to be picked up; your dirty clothes here and don't leave any Gatorade or water out. He doesn't get it, but we'll throw stuff on the ground and he'll come and pick it up and put it away. We'll get it back out and throw it back on the ground. He'll just keep coming and pick it up; just talking and not noticing."

If I get the Manning's to adopt me, can I be a good football player too?

Here is a random one from LancasterOnline.com. Two women from Lancaster, PA,  Glenn Cook and Heather Spire, created a special vest that is designed to keep the wearer cool.

Cook and Spire last year formed Pervormance LLC, a company that distributes European-made cooling vests in the United States.

The vests, which cool by evaporation, not with ice packs, are being marketed to anyone who toils in the heat.

The short, quilted vests, which retail for $295 apiece, are guaranteed to stay cool for 48 hours after being submerged in cool water for just 6 seconds, says Cook.

These vests contain a high-tech fleece that absorbs the water and then releases it by evaporation, cooling the people wearing them longer than any other evaporative vest, she says.

Weighing 2½ pounds when activated with water, the vests' exterior fabric stays dry, allowing them to be worn comfortably over a T-shirt.

What does this have to do with the Saints?

The Philadelphia Eagles football team also tried them at a pre-season camp and will do further testing with eight vests at their training camp later this month and next, according to Cook and Spire.

Two other NFL teams, the New Orleans Saints and the Baltimore Ravens, also are trying them.

If you want to know what Vegas thinks about the Saints chances this season, look no further. The over/under for total wins has been set and its not very optimistic. Here is a team breakdown from a guy whose job really depends on getting it right.

Vegas baby!! (Photo Source)

New Orleans Saints over/under 8½ wins: Sean Payton did a sensational job in his first season, getting the Saints to the NFC Championship game, then everything went wrong last season. In an age of offense, the Saints are still loaded, No. 1 in total offense in 2006 and No. 4 last season, led by Drew Brees (4,423 yards, 28 TDs, 18 INTs), and the backfield tandem of Reggie Bush and Deuce McAllister. This offense is tailor-made for the indoor surface in New Orleans.

The defense has been a problem, but they moved up in the draft to take USC nose tackle Sedrick Ellis with the 7th pick, along with DT DeMario Pressley (5th round, NC State). After having to duel with the AFC South last season (losses to the Texans, Colts and Titans), the Saints get the AFC West, which includes a pair of cupcakes in the Chiefs and Raiders. And remember they played in a division in 2007 where only one team (Bucs) had a winning record. Over 8½ wins is more likely.

Nice! I think this is a no-brainer. Might make a little wager myself.

armchairGM.com had a bit to say about the Saints in their regular Walkers Rants section.

Three teams that will surprise you this upcoming season; New Orleans Saints, Minnesota Vikings, New York Jets…

Surprise everyone except Saints fans.

You guys ought to like this. Kim Kardashian's sister is going to the clink. Per Kim K.'s official blog.

I have been getting asked all day if Khloe is going to jail. I know my fans rely on coming to my blog for the truth...

Khloe wants you to know she was sentenced to go to jail in regards to her one DUI case last year.

Glad I added her site to my daily blogroll.

For those of you with NFL Network, here is the full preseason game lineup.

First off, check out the new pics I posted in the FanShots last night.

We've got another USO trip report from NFL.com. Check out the link, because there is also a video that goes along with it. The article doesn't have anything about Drew in it, but the video does.

The Times-Pic did their usual Friday sports talk Live Chat. Here are the highlights.

On draftee signings.

The truth is these late-round signings usually come in bunches as the teams try to schedule the players' agents in  all at once.   So whether it's Nicks or Pressley, I'd expect the other to sign within a week ... if not mere hours of the other one.

The big question is when will Ellis sign ... Mike Triplett expressed optimism on that front earlier this week, so that's at least a good sign.   I haven't heard rumors of a holdout either, so let's hope he can get in early in or even prior to camp.

On picking up another running back.

Alexander can't perform on the field, Henry can't stay clean off it, and Benson can do neither.   I would hate any of the above signings.

Now, I won't rule out a signing once the season gets underway and it's proven McAllister can't go.   I could easily envision the team making a move should the Deuce suffer a setback ... I just don't think we'll see any moves until that point, and that point may not occur until sometime during the regular season.

On Colston.

As far as Colston, I am on his side in this one too.   He has done his job professionally and exceptionally for two years now, so I'm in favor of a raise.

I'm not as optimistic about him signing anytime soon due to the lack of news on the story.   It just seems to be standing still at this point.

The Saints aren't dummies.   They'll pay him.   It's just a question of when.   Right now, I wouldn't be surprised if he doesn't get into camp until well into the preseason, but again, that's just personal speculation.

On Adrian Arrington.

He passes the eyeball test, and he's received praise from the coaching staff as well.   My current guess is that he'll push hard for a roster spot and will be on the verge of making it/joining the practice squad.

That position is deep, however, so it's still an uphill battle.   He just appears to have the goods at present.

On Aaron Glenn and maybe moving to safety.

At this stage of his career, a move to safety can only help prolong his NFL shelf life.   His size (5-9, 183) will work against him, but if he can provide depth at two different spots, you're right, he'd be a real asset.

On Shockey.

Not dead, given Shockey's fairly recent minicamp antics, just perpetually on hold it seems.

If the Giants decide they want to get rid of him, the Saints will gladly take him at a bargain rate.   That hasn't occured yet, and it may not.   I'm not going to hold my breath that it happens, but I'm also not willing to call the deal dead either.

The guys over at Pro Football Weekly had two articles. The first one is an analysis of all the first round draft picks.

7. DT Sedrick Ellis — Saints
Prediction: Boom
Perhaps just a shade below Dorsey, but I think Ellis is the second-best defensive player in this draft. In fact, we could look back and say those two will be the best players in this draft. He’ll be an immediate contributor to a Saints defense that desperately needs a player who can collapse the pocket and stuff the run. Ellis can and will.

Wow, that is about as good as it gets. Do these guys even know what they are talking about? Should we believe this?

The second one was a run down of issues facing each of the NFC South general managers.

 Saints — WR Marques Colston: Has a salary of $445,000 in ’08. Will become an RFA in ’09.

Reports indicate the Saints and Colston haven’t gone beyond preliminary discussions about an extension, and that may not change soon. Since he will become a restricted free agent after the season, New Orleans will be able to tender him an offer and then match any offer made by other clubs or receive draft picks as compensation if it chooses not to match. Colston, a seventh-round pick in ’06, has outplayed his current deal and is one of the biggest bargains in the league at this point. He has put together back-to-back seasons of more than 1,000 yards receiving and was named to the Pro Bowl after last season. The Saints have shown a commitment to taking care of their own, as in the case of DE Will Smith just weeks ago, and rarely let a key player get away. However, they could wait this one out and assess the market value for Colston next offseason. If New Orleans tenders him at the highest level, which they almost assuredly will if no deal is in place beforehand, it may be worth exploring to see if a team outbids them and is willing to surrender first- and third-round picks (see franchise free agent Jared Allen's trade to the Vikings in April) for Colston’s services.

Trading Colston? Is that what that says?

Me a minute ago...

Do these guys even know what they are talking about? Should we believe this?

Nevermind. I have my answer. Guess we shouldn't expect too much of Sedrick Ellis.

The Sporting News gives us a sample of their analysis of each team, which you can find each week in their magazine. Here is what they had to say about the Saints.

The Saints are counting on CB Mike McKenzie to come back strong from knee surgery. Last year, he was by far their best player in the secondary, which is the weakest area of the roster. He's a confident player with the right mentality for matching up one-on-one with top receivers.

Thats it? Nothing about the RB's, WR's, Vilma or Ellis? This doesn't make me want to buy their magazine.

We got another update on the commissioner's USO trip from the New Orleans Saints official website. Here is the funniest part.

(An aside: Military lingo of the day while driving through Baghdad -- "Roger that... Roger." "What?" asked the commissioner from the third seat.)

Nothing about Drew.

For those of you who missed my appearance on Blog Talk Radio and might actually be interested in hearing it, voila!

For all the fantasy players out there, KFFL did their quarterback review and here is what they had to say about our boy Drew Brees whom, by the way, they ranked #4.

4) Drew Brees | New Orleans Saints | 6-foot, 209 Pounds | 8th Year

Bye

Pass Att

Pass Comp

Pass Yds

Pass TDs

Pass Int

Rush Att

Rush Yds

Rush TDs

Total TDs

Wk

Low

High

Low

High

Low

High

Low

High

Low

High

Low

High

Low

High

Low

High

Low

High

9

544

594

351

401

4006

4406

26

30

13

15

24

34

49

79

0

2

26

32

PROS: Nobody put the ball in the air more often in 2007 than Brees, whose 652 attempts were 74 more than the runner-up. Considering his high number of throws, Brees' accuracy was staggering as he completed 67.5 percent of his passes for 4,423 yards and 28 touchdowns - allowing him to finish in the top five in all major passing categories except touchdowns, where he came in sixth. He boasts a deep cache of weapons both split wide and coming out of the backfield. Brees shook off a rough start to throw two or more touchdowns in 10 of his final 12 games. The offense also calls for a lot of quick releases, which helps keep Brees healthy (fewer than 20 sacks allowed each of the past two seasons).

CONS: About that rough start.... try one touchdown and nine interceptions over the season's first four games, which likely cost fantasy owners some early victories. The loss of running back Deuce McAllister (knee), and the defense's inability to get off the field, led to an unbalanced offensive approach last season, which caused Brees to throw 98 more passes than he did in 2006. While the Saints have a lot of depth at the receiver position, only wideout Marques Colston has proven himself to be a difference maker.

FANTASY TIP: Brees could find himself overlooked a bit this season due to his slow start in 2007 and the Saints taking a significant step back as a team. However, the focus should be more on his strong finish and back-to-back seasons with more than 4,400 yards passing in New Orleans. He's a solid choice once the first three quarterbacks are off the board. Brees, as the peak of the second tier of fantasy passers, still offers reasonable upside at 29 years old, but you don't want to reach for him if the top quarterbacks come off the board in rapid succession.

I think I see the back of Drew's head. (Photo Source)

The USO tour is already underway and NFL.com and the New Orleans Saints official website both had stories. Here and there. They just announced it yesterday, I didn't realize they were leaving so soon. The following is from the Saints official website.

“It makes me very proud to be able to experience a USO tour,” said Brees. “It is humbling experience, and one that leaves you with indelible memories. I know that the NFL has a proud history of great players that have been able to go on USO Tours and I take the endeavor seriously and hope to be able to impart to the people that we will come in contact with how much we appreciate their efforts and sacrifices.”

And this is pretty much the only mention of Drew in the NFL.com article. Guess they were more impressed with Osi.

All told, the commissioner, Osi and Drew made contact with 500 soldiers at this first stop.

Matt LeBlanc (not that one) had an article at Houma Today, asking the questions whose answers will inevitably determine the fate of the Saints 2008 season. Its the same old questions: Deuce and Reggie, the cornerbacks, Vilma, Mehlhaff, etc.

The question all Saints fans want to know is if the team will rebound from a disappointing 7-9 record last season.

To answer that question, the team will have to answer a handful of other questions.

That is deep.

Rotoworld released its offensive line rankings for the 2008 season. Here is where the Saints stood.

21. Saints
2006: 28
2007: 11

This line played above its head in '06 and returned to earth last season. It's really a middle-of-the-pack group, but still talented (LT Jammal Brown, G Jahri Evans) with developmental depth (T Jermon Bushrod, G Andy Alleman). Sean Payton throws more than anyone, even Mike Martz, which helps Drew Brees' numbers but can leave the linemen out to dry.

Not too great. I thought we would get a little more respect.

Yesterday, it was mentioned yet again that the Saints were possible suitors for a trade with Oakland to attain Lamont Jordan. This time it was ESPN.com.

Are you like me? Do you stay awake at night wondering what Archie Manning thinks about Brett Favre and the whole retirement controversy? Well now we can all get some sleep, because the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel has what we seek.

“I’m not saying Brett shouldn’t play some more,” Manning said. “I know Brett, but I don’t know everything going on with him. But early in my career, we went to play the Chargers one day and Johnny Unitas was in uniform, No. 19. It made me sad to see him in that uniform. Brett is physically better off than Johnny was at that stage of his career. But I personally don’t want to see Brett in another uniform.”

And what if Favre wants to play for the Packers?

“They’ve got a good team and good organization going there,” Manning said. “It does put them in a tough situation. So I hope it works out. I’m crazy about him and I want him to be happy.”

I just wanted to mention this too...

Manning, who will be among speakers at the annual meeting of Northwestern Mutual Life Insurance Co. financial representatives later this month in Milwaukee...

My god that man makes a ton of appearances! Do you think its like that movie Multiplicity where there are really like 3 Archie Mannings. One can go to Eli's game, the other, Peyton's all while the real Archie is giving a motivational speech at a deodorant sales convention.

Times-Pic Fantasy Football guru Ross Devonport is still looking for people to participate in a fantasy football mock draft this Thursday at 2pm. Get the info here.

Here is one I found. I really have no idea what its from, but its about the Saintsations and thats good enough for me. There are a lot of cuties in this one, but my fave is the one in the maroon sweatsuit. The best part comes at 4:15 in.

The Saints only yesterday officially named Brian Adams their Assistant Director of College Scouting. Here is the official announcement per the Saints official website, but we already learned all of this in Tuesday's Saints News from the Herald in Rock Hill, SC. From the Saints official website...

“We’ve restructured our college scouting department and Brian is an experienced, smart talent evaluator who we targeted as someone who can help find the right players who will make our team better,” said Loomis. “He will work closely with Rick Reiprish in training and supervising our scouting staff.”

Yahoo! Sports had an article breaking down the Saints four big defensive acquisitions this offseason and asks whether this defense has improved enough. The answer?

The Saints did well with the types of defensive personnel they added. The moves bring them back to being favorites in the NFC South, and combined with their offense, there’s a good chance for a return to the NFC title game.

This has to be the year. (Michael C. Hebert)

Reggie Bush was one of Fox Sports' 10 players on the hot seat. Here is what they say.

Reggie Bush, running back, New Orleans Saints

Once hailed as the most electrifying prospect to come down the pike in years, the former USC Heisman Trophy winner sits at 22nd on Fox Fantasy magazine's list of running backs to draft. In two years as a pro, Bush has averaged a modest 3.7 yards per carry with his longest run from scrimmage listed as 22 yards. Legendary teammate Pierre Thomas averaged 4.8 in spot duty last season and mixed in a 24-yard scamper in only 52 rushing attempts. Oh, that's right — Reggie was being used as a decoy.

B-R-O-N-W-Y-N!!! (Photo Source)

For all the fellas in the house, meet Bronwyn Burt, one of your new Saintsations!

"I'm so excited," Burt said. "I can't wait for the games to start."

Burt is the daughter of John and Sharen Burt of Fort Walton Beach. She graduated from Choctaw in 2005 after being on dance teams there and at Pryor Middle School.
"We're just thrilled to death," Sharen Burt said.

AOL Fanhouse has an early breakdown of Saints players as far as their fantasy football value is concerned. For those who will be participating in CSC's fantasy league, you may want to brush up. Here is my favorite part.

The Team DS/T
It kind of pains me to say this, but the Saints might be a sleeper defense this year. They added Jonathan Vilma and Randall Gay to a defense that stuffed the run but got thrashed through the air last year. Josh Bullocks and Roman Harper are improving, and while they aren't my first, second or third choice for a D/ST, I would consider a late round flier.

This ought to get everyone pumped about next season. Or really disappointed if you are the superstitious type. From Saints Gab.

Surprise! All four of the major NFL magazines, Athlon, Lindy’s, Pro-Football Weekly and Sporting News, picked the Saints to win the NFC South.

We are screwed!

Our poster boy. (Photo Source)

The New Orleans Saints official website announced that Drew Brees was invited by league commissioner Roger Goodell to go on a USO Trip, along with Osi Umenyiora.

NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell, joined by New Orleans Saints quarterback Drew Brees and New York Giants defensive end Osi Umenyiora, will soon leave on a seven-day, three-country summer USO tour led by the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, Admiral Mike Mullen.

And lucky for Drew and Osi, the Admiral invited other participants...

including two members of the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders.

Here is Mike Detillier's weekly piece on Houma Today. It analyzes which college conference has the most projected starters in the NFL this season. I will spare you the very long and detailed breakdown and hit you with the good stuff.

Overall Breakdown

When you break it all down, the SEC leads the way with 137 projected starters for the 2008 NFL season. The ACC finished second with 121 projected starters.

The Big Ten finished third with 105 starters and the Big 12 was fourth with 72 projected starters.

The Pac-10 finished with 70 starters, the Big East has 33 starters and Conference USA and the Mountain West each have 22 starters.

The WAC has 21 projected starters and the Mid-American has 19 starters. The Independents have 13 projected starters and the Sun Belt has 12 starters.

There are 57 players from the small college ranks that are projected starters in the NFL for 2008.

Here is an updated list of all the draft choices who are signed and unsigned by team from Scout.com.

This is a good one to end on. Read this article from the Times-Pic and tell us all which one you would choose, the gold pill or the black pill?

Mrs. Frumplesworth says "Be careful when handling fireworks this weekend!"

Sorry to those of you who were hoping to see the Saints MNF game against Tennessee as part of 2007: Redux (Just for you Hollywoo!). We now return to your regularly scheduled Friday afternoon post.

• You are fighting in the Revolutionary War in 1776. Which current Saint would you want fighting by your side? Extra points if you describe what he's wearing.
  
• If Drew was one of our forefathers, which one would he be?
• What four all-time Saints players would be on the Saints version of Mt. Rushmore?
• What do you think Reggie is doing this 4th of July? Kim Kardashian is not an acceptable answer.
• What will you be doing this 4th of July weekend?

Have a great Fourth of July weekend!!