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.

Well, its that time of the year. When football news is slow and the only thing left to talk about it trash and gossip, and today's news has plenty of it. Of course, that means some hot new pictures of Kim Kardashian.

Continue reading this post »

Actually a good amount of news today.

The New Orleans Saints official website gave us a little info about Reggie's trip to the UK. He is touring with San Diego's LaDainian Tomlinson, doing countless interviews and photoshoots. 

"It’s been a long process, but really fun meeting so many people here," said New Orleans’ running back Bush. "It is obvious that there is a lot of excitement here around this game and everybody has been interested to hear from us about every aspect of our sport."

"I have heard about Wembley and I am looking forward to seeing the stadium," said Bush. "One thing I am going to check out is the turf as it is important for a player at my position to be able to get good traction."

I was recently asked about the condition of the turf at Wembley Stadium by a CSC reader and I honestly have no idea what condition it's in. I believe they said after the game last season that they would make adjustments to prevent it from happening again. I also think the turf they played on last season was newly laid.

A panel from Scout.com answered a few questions from readers yesterday. Here are the questions and answers pertaining to the Saints.

Is Will Smith, as his contract would suggest, a top three or even five DE in the NFL?
—Nick from New Orleans

Ed Thompson: No. I'd place him in the top 10, but it's hard to see him in the top five, whether you look at his performance last season or even over the past three years. He's a highly talented player with plenty of upside, which is why he got paid so handsomely. But as of right now, I'd say he still lags behind players such as Minnesota's Jared Allen, Miami's Jason Taylor, Baltimore's Terrell Suggs, Tennessee's Kyle Vanden Bosch, Indianapolis' Dwight Freeney, Buffalo's Aaron Schobel, and Green Bay's Aaron Kampman.

Chris Steuber: I think a lot of people forget about Will Smith, because he plays in New Orleans on a mediocre defense. But statistically speaking, he's been the Saints most consistent defensive performer and has averaged more than eight sacks a year during his four-year career. The Saints may have overpaid Smith a bit, but the contract he received is the going rate for a pass rusher with his ability. With that said, I don't think Smith is a top five defensive end in the league, he's close, but I'd say he's in the top eight.

Adam Caplan: While Smith is seen as a team leader and is certainly above average against the run, I wouldn't necessarily put him in the top-five of all defensive ends. You could make a case for him around the top-10 as a pass rusher.

Here are the ends I'd put ahead of him:

Jared Allen, Minnesota
Jason Taylor, Miami
Osi Umenyiora, N.Y. Giants
Aaron Kampman, Green Bay
Patrick Kerney, Seattle
Aaron Schobel, Buffalo
Terrell Suggs, Baltimore
Kyle Vanden Bosch, Tennessee
Dwight Freeney, Indianapolis

Tom Marino: NFL GMs have put a premium on QBs, LOTs, DCs and outside pass rushers. Personally I don't think any of them are worth they money the teams are currently paying them, but the market obviously supports what the elite players are getting paid today. I believe Will Smith is a very solid player and among the top five to six at the position within the league. Without question he along with Charles Grant is the best combination within the league. I really liked Will as a college player (light years ahead of Vernon Gholston at a similar stage of his development).

Best combination in the league? More hype!

How are the defensive additions looking on the field and do you think the additions are enough to get New Orleans back in the playoffs? Will Jo Lon Dunbar compete for some playing time at weakside linebacker?
—Clint from Shreveport, La.

ET: I think the Saints helped themselves tremendously on defense. Sedrick Ellis is a monster, pure and simple. He's going to have some veteran offensive linemen wondering how they are supposed to stop this kid. Former Jags defensive tackle Bobby McCray was a very smart addition, as well; his versatility will be a big plus. I fully expect Jonathan Vilma to thrive in New Orleans' 4-3 defense as long as he doesn't have any further trouble with his knee. Tracy Porter is going to surprise a lot of folks, as well. I talked to a few wide receivers from this year's draft class who pointed Porter out as the toughest defender they went up against during their college career. As for Dunbar, I was stunned that he wasn't drafted. While I don't think it's realistic that you'll see him getting much time with the starters this year, I do expect to see him make the team and battling for a starter's role by his third season.

CS: The selection of Sedrick Ellis will prove to be the best addition the Saints made this offseason. Randall Gay and Jonathan Vilma were good additions, but Ellis has star potential written all over him. He's looked very good during OTAs and don't be surprised if he's a starter on opening day. Jo Lon Dunbar has a shot to make the team and will have to perform well on special teams. It all depends on how Dunbar plays during training camp and pre-season games to see if he will compete for playing time at weakside linebacker. The Saints have a lot of veterans at LB and Dunbar could be a player they groom for the future.

AC: One player from the offensive side of the ball told me recently he thought Ellis looked good during their OTAs. The expectation is that Ellis will be an impact player right away. As for Dunbar, he has to make the team first since he was an undrafted free agent. But the backup weak-side job still looks to be open so it's not out of the question that Dunbar makes the team.

TM: Clint, Jo Lon Dunbar was a steady college football player with limited physical qualities. The Will backer position is in most cases the most critical of the linebacker positions. At the outset, I don't think he runs well enough to play a "Will" backer position and if a college free agent was good enough to get playing time over established players (Shanle, Fijuta, Simoneau, and Evans), I would say they have some very big holes to fill in New Orleans. I would say his only chance to make it would be as a back-up special teams player. Vilma, Ellis and overpaid D.C. Gay should provide a big lift to the Saints' defensive unit.

Overpaid?

Here is the traditional synopsis of Jimmy Smith's live Saints Chat over at the Times-Pic.

On Colston.

I expect something will happen pretty soon with Marques Colston. Now that his agent, Joel Segal, has the Will Smith deal out of the way, he can focus his efforts with the Saints on Colston, who has obviously outperformed his original rookie contract. It’s time for the Saints to continue their efforts of stepping up and keeping their key players happy. It’s likely that will happen with Colston before training camp.

On LeCharles Bentley.

Now that LeCharles Bentley has gotten his release from the Browns, he’s free to negotiate with anyone. The problem is, however, that he’d probably want to come into a situation where he’s guaranteed to be the starter. Will that happen with the Saints? Don’t know. The position belongs now to Jonathan Goodwin. It would be difficult to guarantee a starting job to a player who has practiced just once since 2005.

On the wide receivers.

As it has been the last two training camps, NOLAKeith, the wide receiver position is going to be one of the most hotly contested of the summer. And from the looks of all these questions, it's going to be closely watched. Here's what I think is going to transpire this summer in Jackson: Marques Colston, David Patten and Devery Henderson will head into camp as the top three receivers. Robert Meachem is going to push hard for the fourth spot. Terrance Copper is a valuable special teams player who has the inside track for the fifth spot because of that versatility. I think six WRs could be a long shot, but Lance Moore is on the bubble right now. Skylar Green could make the roster simply as a return specialist. Arrington is a long shot, but has skills. If they could sneak him through the waiver process, he'll be a practice squad player.

On a possible Shockey trade.

A weekly update for all you Jeremy Shockey fans out there. As you've no doubt read, he was unhappy last week at the Giants minicamp. He's being guided in his unhappiness, no doubt, by his agent Drew Rosenhaus. But Shockey doesn't want to play with the Giants any more. Sean Payton loves what Shockey can bring to an offense. He's still the property of the Giants, however, and until a trade can be negotiated, he'll still be with the Giants. I don't think the Saints are through with their infatuation, however, and it's possible that up until the October trading deadline, anything can happen. So until that deadline comes and goes, there's still a possibility that the Saints could acquire his services.

On the running game.

Deuce, I believe, will be the starting tailback come September, TheGuy. That said, based on watching Pierre Thomas go through his paces last year on the practice field, I do believe he has the strength and tools to be a capable backup. There are still some guys in front of him, though. He'll have to move ahead of those guys in training camp to be the No. 1 backup.

On the Charles Grant situation.

Spoke with Charles' attorney this morning, Brian from VA, and there's nothing new on the case, no court dates have been set, and nothing appears to be imminent. This kind of schedule could disrupt Grant's presence in training camp or during the exhibition season, but the wheels of justice are turning rather slowly in Blakely, Ga.

On the cornerback position.

All these cornerback queries indicate that some of you have been reading this weekly chat. Still thinking that cornerback, and the secondary in general, is the weak link on this defense. I think the Saints will go into training camp with the cornerbacks who are on the roster. There shouldn't be any additions. Fred Thomas is no longer on the roster. It's tough to compare Porter and Gay. Gay is an experienced NFL player, Porter is a rookie. There has to be some concern right now that Mike McKenzie won't be full speed once he gets to training camp. He didn't have surgery until late December and sometimes it takes   a year to fully recover from ACL repair. Jason David's biggest challenge is his height, or lack thereof. He's not going to get any taller. And being elevationally challenged myself, I can say that. Right now, I'll have to put Jason Craft as the starter in McKenzie's spot and, for good or bad, Jason David, until someone beats him out in training camp.

On Skyler Green.

To answer all these queries, I think Green's best chance to make the roster is as a return specialist, though he did display good hands in the workouts we witnessed. He also showed he still has good speed. I don't think he's as fast as Devin Hester, but in the few special teams drills we witnessed, he is a good returner with good moves. Remember, though, these moves were executed in shorts and helmets. Let's reassess once they put the pads on. But he could upgrade the return game.

On tight end.

Having written a story last week on the return of Mark Campbell from his back injury, Chris, I believe the Saints running game this year will be greatly improved. Campbell is the best run-blocking tight end on the roster. We haven't seen anything of Eric Johnson because he has been limited because of recent ankle surgery. Ortega and Ghent, BirdMan, have looked OK in the OTAs but they'll be hard-pressed to top Campbell, Johnson and BIlly Miller. I still think the Shockey scenarios are alive.

This list  from ESPN is technically for fantasy, but it still should say something. They rated all 32 offensive lines in the league. Saints were ranked an impressive 9.

9. New Orleans Saints
The Saints allowed a measly 16 sacks last year despite Drew Brees' 652 pass attempts. Brees, who is exceptional at feeling the rush and getting the ball out quickly, deserves some of the credit, but obviously, his protection was exceptional as well. However, the Saints didn't do nearly as good a job opening holes for the running backs, who averaged just 3.7 yards per rush. This stark contrast obviously puts a ton of pressure on Brees and the Saints' passing game, but that group has stepped up quite well. Still, to be an elite offense, New Orleans is going to have to run the ball with more consistency. Jammal Brown is one of the top left tackles in the league, but the Saints lost Jeff Faine to division rival Tampa Bay. Jonathan Goodwin, who is bigger and more powerful at the point of attack, will take over at center, but overall, this is a downgrade, and Faine's nasty edge and leadership will be missed. Keep an eye on underrated RG Jahri Evans. He has a chance to develop into one of the best guards in the game today.

The news is so slow that the New Orleans Saints official website reported on the Voodoo themselves. For those of you, like myself, who follow the Voodoo, you know that the game at the Graveyard this Saturday is a must win situation. 

“If we win, we’re in (the playoffs),” VooDoo Head Coach Mike Neu said. “It’s as simple as that. We have a second chance at the same scenarios as we had last week. We have a chance to control our destiny, and we’re at home. That’s all we’re concerned about right now.”

“We control what’s in front of is,” Neu said. “The opportunity is sitting right in front of us and we’ve got to take advantage of it.”

For those of you who have never been to a Voodoo game, Saturday is the perfect time to start showing some support.

Here are the Voodoo playoff scenarios.

The New Orleans VooDoo face numerous playoff scenarios this week. Four teams-New Orleans (8-7), Orlando (9-7), New York (8-7) and Cleveland (8-7)-are battling for three remaining playoff spots in the hotly contested National Conference. Philadelphia (12-3), Dallas (12-3) and Georgia (10-5) have clinched playoff spots. If the VooDoo makes the playoff, they would play next week in a wild-card game.

With a VooDoo win:
-New Orleans would host New York is the Dragons win.
-New Orleans would host Cleveland if the Gladiators win and the Dragons lose.
-New Orleans would travel to Orlando if the Gladiators and Dragons lose.

With a loss:
-New Orleans would make the playoffs of Cleveland loses and would then travel to either Philadelphia or Dallas. If Cleveland wins, the VooDoo are eliminated from the playoff race.

Happy Fathers Day to all the dads out there!

I am surprised nobody thought to put this up in a FanPost.

The big story in NY yesterday was Jeremy Shockey's shouting match with Giants GM Jerry Reese on the final day of minicamp. The original report was from The Bergen Record. This may very well be the last straw for Mr. Shockey. Every NY media source covering the story seemed to suggest a trade now was very likely and very much wanted by Shockey, sportswriters and fans alike.

After the shouting match, it may well have reached the point where Reese will entertain offers.

The Saints tried to make a deal around draft time, while the Buccaneers also may have an interest.

The Giants won the Super Bowl as a team. They don't need Shockey tearing that down. - Big Blue View

Here's our solution: Trade Shockey. Pay Plaxico. - NY Daily News

This sure looks like Shockey is trying to stir up as much trouble as possible in an effort to get traded. And I’m starting to think that a trade might not be such a bad idea. - NY Daily News

The Giants will have to decide whether to keep Shockey or move him, perhaps at less than market value. - Fox Sports

Right around the draft, the Saints wanted Shockey and offered the Giants their second-round pick this year and their fifth-round pick next year. Considering Shockey's behavior, the Giants blew it by not taking those two draft picks and saying goodbye. That is probably going to be the best offer they get.

They should get back on the phone with Saints coach Sean Payton and hope he still wants the player he coached as a rookie to provide firepower for Drew Brees. The Giants have lost their leverage with teams knowing they have no choice but to trade him. They must get rid of him before training camp or risk his bad attitude poisoning the locker room. - NY Daily News

So does this mean Roman Harper should start packing his bags? Should Eric Johnson, Billy Miller or Mark Campbell be worried? Seems the Giants may not be so picky regarding trade offers a second time around. Heck, at this point lets see if we can give away someone else not nearly as good as Harper. I actually like him.

The Times-Pic also had coverage of the whole Shockey scandal. Not much else new to be learned, its just a review of the entire drama from its beginning earlier this spring.

I did like this part of the article though.

Here's a shocker: Shockey and Burress are represented by Drew Rosenhaus.

Ain't that the truth.

The rest of the article had had a league roundup of news including the latest on Chad Johnson, Cedric Benson and LeCharles Bentley.

The Sun Herald did a review of minicamp and a look toward training camp. You can read it for yourself but I will sum it all up.

• Meachem was looking good.
• Henderson and Moore are in danger.
• Colston is serious about his contract.
• They believe Tracy Porter is ahead of Usama Young on the depth chart.
• Jason David doesn't look to start.
• Vilma will be the starting MLB by the end of training camp.
• Keep an eye on Chris Barclay.
• DeMario Pressley needs to get healthy. Quickly.
• Reggie looks skinny.

Next up is a clip from Pro Football Weekly about Jonathan Vilma. Its from a couple of days ago, but still relevant.

The major piece of the Saints’ rebuilt defense, MLB Jonathan Vilma, told PFW this week that he’s in the final stage of his rehab from surgery last fall to repair a dead piece of bone that became dislodged in his knee, and that the knee held up well through the team’s OTAs and minicamp.

They had some quotes from Vilma, but I am pretty sure they were old and we have already seen them.

Here is the obligatory article about the first family of football, the Mannings, from Fox Sports. I swear they have one of these write-ups about once a month. This time its in a Fathers Day wrapping. Of note in the article, apparently Eli and Peyton weren't very close until Eli became QB for Ole Miss and they shared the common experience of being an SEC quarterback.

"It was something all of a sudden in common we could talk about," Eli said.

Peyton closes out the article.

"It's great when we come to New York now, too," Peyton said, "because he picks up dinner."

I seriously smell a reality show. Maybe after they both retire. Peyton does have that natural on camera presence that makes him very funny. If they came out with a reality show, what would they call it? Leave your submissions in the comment box.

I missed this one in the Houma Courier from Mike Detillier yesterday. Its all about the importance of special teams and why they should never be overlooked. I think last season taught some Saints fans about the importance of special teams.

In 2007, Mare hit on 10 of his 17 field goal attempts (59 percent), and we all saw coaching decisions made because the staff didn’t have confidence in him. The Saints slumped to a 7-9 mark last season.

Because of that, the Saints picked up Taylor Mehlhaff in this years draft. Because of Chicago's Devin Hester the Saints also realize the importance of the return game, and look to Reggie Bush for the answer.

“Sometimes you are a bit hesitant to put a player like Reggie (Bush) fulltime as a return man, but if he can change the course of a couple of games it could mean the difference between getting into the playoffs or watching them,” Orgeron said. “I have seen firsthand just how much of a factor he made on those special teams when I was there and all of us are anxious to see those skills here in New Orleans. At USC, teams totally changed their approach on special teams because of Reggie. The guy is lightning in a bottle in the open field.”

Only time will tell.

USA Today has an article about this years Saints team trying to live up to the expectations they had for last season. Not too much here really if you have been following along all summer. Just a recap of our offseason moves. Here are some quotes from Drew Brees.

"My worst year, individually and as a team, was back in '03 in San Diego, and we went from 4-12 to then 12-4 the next year," he says. "My mind-set was that it made us so much mentally stronger, and I think that's what will happen here.

"The only reason we're going to be able to accomplish what we're about to accomplish in '08 is because of what we went through in '07."

To Brees, though, there's no question at all — at least as far as returning to the playoffs.

"There's no doubt," he says. "Any expectation less than that, you might as well leave the building right now."

And now for a trip down memory lane with some Jeremy Shockey talk. Remember that whole thing? Seems like it was just two months ago. Anyway, Shockey has made his first public appearance since pretty much the Superbowl at the POWERade Pro Challenge for children and heat-stricken media at Flushing Meadows Corona Park (I used to play ice hockey there). Shockey's comments can be found at the NY Post (reputable, I know). I present them here for you now, via that article.

"Everybody said that I agreed to get traded and that I would welcome a trade or that I'm unhappy. . . . But you can't find one article that had my direct quote, except from an anonymous source or from this person or from that person, OK?"

To wit: why was he watching the Giants shock the Patriots from a skybox?

"And the truth is, I went to the Super Bowl game to go watch my team play; the Giants wouldn't let me sit on the sidelines with my teammates - I was forced to sit up in a box," Shockey said.

I said to Shockey: "And that ticked you off."

"Words can't explain," he said.

I asked him: "What is your relationship with the front office right now?"

"That's between the management and myself," Shockey said.

I asked him: "Do you want to and expect to play for the Giants this year?"

"Tough questions," he began. "I'm not the Giants front office, because they feel like they have to tell the world about things that happened . . . when it's a situation like this that's so severe, you don't leak it in the media. I'm not ever going to be a leak, its a team. But they feel like they're obligated to put their feelings in the media, which really hurt my family and myself, with the things I've done for them."

Shockey said he had texted yesterday morning with co-owner Steve Tisch.

"I consider him a father figure to me - and he would never betray me, like some other people that are there," Shockey said.

I asked him: "Would you welcome a trade?"

"I'm not saying that - no comment," Shockey said. "Whatever's happened between the Giants and myself is gonna stick between the Giants and myself."

I asked him: "Will you be at minicamp?"

"I plan on fulfilling my contractual obligation but the No. 1 thing that I'm going there for is to be with my teammates (who) I miss so much," he said.

Take note of that last sentence...

...because ESPN.com has its own Shockey article saying its still very questionable whether he will actually attend minicamp. Here is what ESPN reports Jeremy as having said about mandatory minicamp this Wednesday.

"Who knows? I might go to see my mother in Texas. I have no idea," Shockey said.

"Obviously. I'm not 100 percent and if I do show to minicamp, it's going to be, I wouldn't imagine me doing much, just getting treatment on my leg," Shockey told reporters.

So we have two conflicting reports. Shockey is an enigma, wrapped inside a puzzle, hidden within a riddle. Or something like that. He's crazy, thats all you need to know. Fortunately none of this drama relates to the Saints.

In case you forgot about the whole investigation involving Matt Lehr and his alleged steroid distribution, The NY Times has some more news.

Jacobs said his lawyer would be present next week for a second meeting with league investigators, and Jacobs planned to bring documentary evidence regarding sales to players.

Greg Aiello, a spokesman for the N.F.L., confirmed that league representatives had met with Jacobs and said future meetings were scheduled but declined to discuss the matter further.

Jacobs said the investigators expressed concern that the information he had would be reported by the news media before the league had a chance to investigate the matter fully.

“They said they didn’t want to go through what baseball has gone through with the public and Congress,” Jacobs said.

The results of these meetings could spell doom for Lehr depending on what kind of evidence Jacobs has and whether he is, in fact, telling the truth or not.

Saints Insider had an article about Sedrick Ellis and his acclimation to life in New Orleans and as a Saint. Most of it is stuff we have already heard about his desire to work hard and earn a starting spot. Of course there is the standard discussion of the many dangers and pitfalls of our great city of New Orleans.

“Even when you work out in California and you think you are in shape, the air is a little different here and you have to get acclimated. …” he said. “My body is getting used to it and we’re working it out. I think I came in here in pretty good shape.”

And there’s the New Orleans food.

Ellis wouldn’t be the first Saints lineman to take advantage of New Orleans plentiful restaurants and reputation as a diner’s delight, but, he said, he’s ready to fight the temptation.

“It’s always a concern for a big guy, but as a professional now, you have to be disciplined, get your workouts in and watch your eating habits,” Ellis said.

You may have found this news over on the RotoWorld widget to my right, your...right. Or this could be the first your hearing of it, either way you got it from CSC. The Star-Ledger has a quick article about DE Renaldo Wynn visiting the Giants. This is what his agent said.

"He had a good visit and there's interest on both ends," Schaffer said. "We'll continue to talk and see what develops."

This news is freaking out Giants fans who think this is a sign of Strahan's retirement. I highly doubt the Giants will repeat, so why not go out on top?

Mickey Loomis pretty much confirmed on Sirius Satellite Radio that the Shockey deal was all but dead. Quote from this article at The Record.

“It’s no secret we had some discussions with them and we just couldn’t come to a conclusion on the right compensation,” Loomis told Sirius NFL Radio. “I understand that. He's a very good player and the Giants don't want to just give him away - unless they feel like they're getting really good value.
“But for the most part that’s dead ... I don't anticipate that being rekindled.”

So quit talkin' about it!

This one  is sure to make you chuckle. Apparently, Ricky Williams was invited to party on Cedric Benson's boat the day he was arrested but declined.

"I think if I had come down, things might have worked out a little bit differently," Williams told the American-Statesman. "I find I have a calming influence on people I'm around.

"As a high-level athlete, it's just something that's ingrained in me. I always think that if I'm there, things would be different. I can't say how."

I am on the floor laughing. Its just hilarious on so many levels. Soooo many levels. To be inside his mind for one day.

In somewhat stupid news, Drew Brees' Southern Smokehouse Bacon Burger beat out Adrian Peterson's Jalapeno Smokehouse Bacon Burger and Brian Westbrook's Triple-the-Cheese Bacon Burger in Chili's Restaurant Smokehouse Bacon Burger Showdown. The good news: Brees receives $10,000 for his foundation.

Some of these articles came out late yesterday, so pardon me for the delay. I try my hardest to stay on top of it.

The big news of the day is the Saints signing of three players late yesterday. The Sun Herald and Times-Pic both had the story, here and here.

Signed by the team were quarterback Travis Lulay, defensive tackle Marcus Pittman and wide receiver Carlos Robinson. Loomis also announced the signing of rookie free agent offensive tackle Carnell Stewart, who played at LSU. - Times-Pic

That should make local LSU fans happy. Robinson and Pittman were UFAs. Lulay was on Seattle's practice squad last year. For more detailed info, head over to the New Orleans Saints official website.

Sadly, the team waived four players.

• Nate Mcmanus - OL
  
• T.C. Ostrander - QB
  
• Akim Millington - OL
  
• Evan Moore - WR

The New Orleans Saints official website had a story about the one and only Marques Colston.

When asked this morning about his accomplishments thus far in his career and if the desire to improve is what motivates him, Colston took the question in an entirely different direction.

“The only record I am aware of is that we are coming off a 7-9 season,” Colston said. “Our goal is to get back to the playoffs and be a contender again. I look around our locker room and see players that have their confidence and believe in each other. We’re pushing each other all the time. My motivation doesn’t come from compiling statistics or setting records. My motivation is in finding ways to help this team win.

Nice! He's the man. Oh please Marques, tell us more.

“My approach, I hope, is consistent in regards to the business side as it is to how I approach the game,” he said. “I’m not about going to the press and talking about my contract status or anything little that comes up. I have an agent that I hired and his job is to talk to the front office. My job isn’t to worry about that. It’s my responsibility to come to work everyday and focus on getting better and helping our team win football games.”

He also had some positive words to say about the new players.

“The new guys have fit in great,” he said. “They came right in and fit in immediately by being here and working out next to the players that returned. They have come right in and I see that they are doing the things that they need to do to be successful. They’re all team players and just enhance the good chemistry that is already in here.”

Colston leaves us with some more inspirational wisdom about his first two years in the league.

“It’s been very fast paced, but it’s been a lot of fun,” he said. “I have found out a lot about myself. I think I have come a long way in two years, but I also think there is a lot further I can go and that is really my focus and what motivates me to continue to work hard.”

Colston smiled and concluded, “One of the reasons I suppose I have tasted success early in my career, if you want to call it that, is because I walked into a great situation. I am blessed to have a great coaching staff that has helped me grow as a player and a person, and we have a great quarterback in Drew and I’m part of an offense that gives the players an opportunity to make plays. It’s about learning something new every single day.”

Sports Illustrated released a story yesterday regarding Sean Payton and Mickey Loomis (we need to come up with a nickname for this dynamic duo. If you have a suggestion, throw it in the comment box) and their thoughts and feelings about the upcoming season. This is a good one; positive and refreshing if nothing else. Payton is very excited.

"I like where this team's at," he would say. "The locker room, the environment here, they're both real solid. I like the guys that we've got on this team. The season can't come quick enough. I'm looking forward to it. I like the way it's shaping up."

The rest of the article goes on to explain why the Saints should could be a good team this year. All the same stuff we already know: free agent acquisitions, upgraded defense, Meachem's emergence, Bush's breakout, yada yada yada.

Coach tells us how he will decide who plays and who doesn't.

"Each year, it starts anew," he says. "We've played free agents over draft picks and vice versa, so we're really not biased as to how we got these players. What's most important is, who's playing the best when we start the season?"

Mickey had some words about Jason David.

"We have not by any stretch of the imagination given up on Jason David," says Loomis. "Jason had a tough year, a tough transition period, going from the [Cover 2] defense that the Colts played to the defense that we played. What we asked him to do, in terms of being out on an island and covering guys man-for-man more often than he did with the Colts, it took an adjustment period for him. But he's got the ability to be a good corner for us, and that's what we expect."

We've got another "Talk Saints" with Mike Triplett from the Times-Pic. Here are the highlights. Check out the whole Q&A.

On, of course, Shockey...

Alright, let’s start with the weekly ritual of answering all the Shockey questions first. … I think the bottom line is that the Saints have made it clear that they’re interested in him, and the Giants haven’t decided yet that they want to give him up. Maybe this thing will continue into training camp, and maybe it will never happen. But if the Giants ever change their mind and decide they can live without him, they know who to call first.

 

Remember, both of these teams are trying to win the Super Bowl THIS year, so those future draft picks aren’t any more attractive to the Giants than they are the Saints. … And I don’t think the Saints will overpay with a first- and second-rounder or anything.

On the defense and our secondary...

I think the most important thing the Saints did was upgrade their entire defense, front to back. They will be much more disruptive up front, with the additions of Sedrick Ellis and Bobby McCray, and they should be more athletic in the linebacker corps if Vilma or Morgan can contribute. … That will keep quarterbacks like Marc Bulger, Matt Schaub, Jeff Garcia, Chris Redman, Quinn Gray (the list goes on and on) from sitting back and having career days against the Saints.

 

And I do think the talent was upgraded a little bit at cornerback. Randall Gay is not a superb athlete, but he’s trustworthy in a lot of different formations, either as a starter or a nickel guy. Tracy Porter is a rookie, so who knows what you’ll get. But he’s athletic and fast enough to cover the deep ball. Mike McKenzie should be able to return from an ACL injury, but it’s impossible to know how much speed or explosion he’ll lose until we see him in the preseason. And Jason David has to be better in his second year in the system. … Plus you’ve got Usama Young heading into his second year, and veterans Jason Craft and Aaron Glenn in the mix.

 

It’s not a position of strength. But something halfway decent should emerge from all that depth and competition.

 

I’m sure the Saints have spent a large amount of this offseason figuring out how to adjust their schemes and game plans. And I think they hand-picked the newcomers (Gay and Porter) to fit those ideas. … of course, we don’t get to see the playbook, though. But trust me, the Saints are well aware of their problems, and they’ll try something new.

On the defensive line...

Sedrick Ellis lined up at nose tackle during rookie camp, which is Hollis Thomas’ position. … But I think they’re just going to keep Ellis at one position for a while so he can learn and absorb the defense. Eventually, I think he has the versatility to play both tackle positions, depending on the situation. Obviously you want Hollis in there on running downs (assuming Hollis can stay healthy and in shape this summer). So it might be nice to see Ellis and Hollis plugging the middle together on obvious rushing downs, then see Ellis with Brian Young at other times, then see Ellis with three defensive ends on obvious passing downs. … And I suppose Ellis should get a breather once in a while, too. The Saints are pretty deep at this position now with rookie DeMario Pressley and veteran backups Antwan Lake and Kendrick Clancy.

In community news, the Brees Dream foundation in conjunction with the  National Automobile Dealers Charitable Foundation is donating $670,00 to Lusher High School on Freret St. in my neck of the woods. The money will be used to rebuild the schools athletic fields. Click it here for the whole story.

Note to Drew: CSC and its staff are also accepting donations.

Lots to get to today. Obviously what everyone wants to know is "What happened with Shaun Alexanders visit?" As expected, nothing came out of this initial meeting. The Times-Pic has the info.

The Saints completed their visit with free-agent tailback Shaun Alexander on Wednesday, but he returned home to Seattle without a contract offer.

It's unclear how serious the interest is from either side. Alexander, who was released by the Seahawks last month, has just started to test the market. He visited Cincinnati on Sunday and Monday before flying to New Orleans.

What is Shaun's plan?

Alexander's agent, Jim Steiner, said the former league MVP and three-time Pro Bowl player has not set a timetable for choosing a team.

"It all depends on how he feels about the team, the prospects of the team winning a championship, and what his role will be," Steiner said.

Can he really be that picky at this point?

Alexander could wait well into the summer to see if injuries create more of a demand for his services. Regardless, the 30-year-old running back likely will have to settle for more of a complementary role with his next team.

Sounds more like it.

Here is your usual recap of Talk Saints with Jimmy Smith from the Times-Pic. Check out the whole thing.

On Shaun Alexander...

From what we understand, Shaun Alexander is in today, or he might have arrived for his visit last night. Since the Saints did not address their running back position in free agency, it's likely they'll go after a veteran running back for training camp because of the sheer uncertainty regarding Deuce McAllister's rehab from a pair of knee surgeries. They'd probably like a veteran in camp to go along with Aaron Stecker because it was obvious last year that Reggie Bush wasn't going to be able to carry the load as the "featured" running back. Stecker is OK. but he's getting up in years and there's no guarantee he'd be the answer, either, if McAllister is slow in recovering, or doesn't fully recover. Pierre Thomas showed flashed in the one game in which he got the bulk of carries, but one game does not a season make.

On Jeremy Shockey...

For all you Jeremy Shockey fans out there, once again this week we'll address what we've been told from NFL sources: The Saints still want Shockey in a black and gold uniform on the field this season. Sean Payton loves the guy. What it takes to get him now, no one knows. There's next year's draft from which the Saints can send to the Giants; there are still players on the roster New York might covet. But, from what we're told, the deal is still a possibility. Why they couldn't get the deal done on draft day, we don't know.

On Saints safeties...

Chuck, you've got your eye in the defensive backfield. There are a couple of guys you won't see anymore, Fred Thomas and likely Jay Bellamy. Though you might not like it, you'll still see Jason David. We won't know how healthy Mike McKenzie will be until he gets on the field. Obviously Randall Gay and Aaron Glenn will get a chance to make an impact as will Tracy Porter. And dwayne, I see a bigger role for Kevin Kaesviharn this season. Whether he unseats Josh Bullocks remains to be seen. We'll know more in August.

On our defensive pass rush...

That's a good question, AL. I think much of the Saints passing scheme last year was based on the fact that there wasn't a great deal of confidence in allowing the secondary to play in man-to-man coverage that much. If the defensive coaching staff feels the secondary can handle more man coverage this year, then it's likely they'll bring a little more pressure from the defensive front and linebackers. Those tendencies won't really develop until the staff knows what kind of secondary coverages they'll be comfortable with.

On looking at Adam Archuleta...

That's an intriguing thought, Robert F. Adam Archuletta had some interesting years in the league but he does have some age under his belt as well. Surely the Saints will do their due diligence to see if there's anything left in his tank. But your assessment that the team could use some more help at the position is sound. Someone in previous chats had offered the opinion that Mike McKenzie could make a move to safety. Perhaps the Saints have some in-house moves planned in that direction if they feel there's no one on the open market who could be of assistance.

On drafting K Taylor Mehlhaff...

Obviously the Saints picked up the kicker because they liked him and figured, or heard, that another team was going to use a draft pick on him meaning he wasn't going to be available as an udrafted free agent. The kid has a strong leg and Payton hasn't been hesitant in the past to carry two kickers on the roster, one for field goals (John Carney) and one for kickoffs (Billy Cundiff). It wouldn't be a surprise, therefore, to see that happen again with Gramatica handling the routine field goals.

On Bush returning punts...

The Saints have to figure out a way, LG Esquire, to get the ball into Reggie Bush's hands. He has proven he can be  a playmaker. Having him return more punts is a viable option, depending upon how heavy a load he's carrying in the offense. If Deuce McAllister is back, or if the Saints are happy with another running back there, and feel as though Bush wouldn't be t aking too much of  a beating as a punt returner, then sure he could be put back there to return more kicks. He'd be a dangerous returner. As dangerous as Hester, we don't know. But it would be nice to find out.

On contract negotiations...

Will Smith and Marques Colston share the same agent, Buzz, Joel Segal, who has his hands full trying t get a big contract for another one of his clients, Glenn Dorsey. But now that the draft is over, and Segal is in his negotiating mode, I'm sure he'll be calling the Saints to  begin working on lucrative extensions for Smith and Colston. Haven't heard any rumblings about Evans' deal, though.

In frightening news, Chris Henry says he wants to play for either New Orleans or Dallas. This comes from an article on ESPN's website.

"There are two teams that I would always love to play for: That's New Orleans and Dallas," Henry said. "New Orleans is home for me. That's always been a big dream of mine. Hopefully I can get in there and sit down with the coaches and maybe have an opportunity to get down there.

Oh please no! Shockey would be bad enough. Chris Henry is just unacceptable. If Payton even thinks about taking a look at this kid I am going to be angry. We are running a football program here, not a rehabilitation half-way house. You guys have to be with me on this one.

Here  is an article about UFA Iowa State WR Todd Blythe who is disappointed about the draft but remains optimistic about mini-camp.

"I know going in they're definitely willing to give guys a shot," Blythe said. "Whether you're drafted in the first round or an undrafted free agent, they really don't care once you get into camp."

Blythe, who signed a free-agent contract, will begin practicing with the other Saints rookies Friday. The Cyclones' all-time leader in receptions (176), yards (3,096) and touchdowns (31) was disappointed after not being drafted, but was told his stock slipped when someone issued a report saying he had a partially torn ACL in his right knee.

Sadly, he will miss his own graduation.

"I'm not too worried about walking across (the stage)," he said. "There's more important things in my mind ... although my mom's going to be upset."

The New Orleans Saints official website had a quick rundown about upcoming rookie mini camp in regards to roster spots. 

Competition will be fierce when the 57 players invited to the rookie camp don their uniforms for the first time on Friday morning, as the team’s six 2008 draftees join 16 undrafted free agents that have agreed to terms with the team, as well as 35 non-roster tryout invitees.

The NFL’s mandated training camp roster size of 80 players under contract means that the team will have to pare down the roster before heading to training camp. So the question that many will have is why the team currently has 86 players under contract.

The answer is that unsigned players do not count against the roster size, and since the draft picks have not yet signed their contracts, the team is able to get to a better look at the rookie free agents that have signed, as well as the tryout players.

Once the draft picks begin signing contracts, the Saints will have to make corresponding roster reductions.

The Advocate had a write-up about rookie mini-camp. Nothing new.

BlackandGold.com had an interview with N.C. State defensive line coach Keith Willis on their website, talking about DeMario Pressley. Here are the highlights.

B&G.com:  When DeMario came out of high school ( Greensboro, NC), he was one of the most heavily rated and recruited high school players in the nation.  Why did his stock fall so far from then until this year’s draft?

Coach Willis:  Well, as you know, injuries are a part of the game of football.  DeMario is a very intense player, and unfortunately, his high motor led to injuries on the practice field.  If I recall correctly, he’s had injuries to his knee, elbow, wrist, foot and ankle.  I’m not 100% sure, so I’ll have to check. But let’s say that it’s hard to perform at your best when you’re banged up.

B&G.com:  Coach, I know that you believe your guy is good, and ready for the NFL.  But if you had to point out area where he could improve the most, what would it be?

Coach Willis:  As I mentioned before, DeMario is high energy, and he leaves it all on the field each game.  I guess he may want to develop more of a MEAN streak. By that I mean he’s a little too nice.  Not that he’s a pushover or anything, because he can more than hold his own on the field.  I’m not saying that he has to talk smack or anything like that.  But it all has to do with your attitude, and based on your level of consistent play, coming across to everyone in the trenches that you’re nobody anyone wants to mess with.

B&G.com:  Where do you figure the Saints to finish in the NFC South (in ’08)?

Coach Willis:  On paper, and with the free agents and draft the Saints just received, they’re one of the best teams right now in the NFL… but that’s on paper.  You don’t win games on paper (moderate chuckle from both).  I’ll say this:  If the Saints come together as a team, you can bank on the fact that they’ll definitely be in the mix for the division championship …and beyond.

Peter Schrager of Fox Sports gave out his awards for the off-season. You can read the whole article here. It's pretty funny. One of the his winners was Jonathan Vilma.

The Elite Eight: Eight Under-the-Radar Off-Season Acquisitions I Really Liked:

DE Travis LaBoy to Arizona

LB Clark Haggans to Arizona

CB Leigh Bodden to Detroit

WR D.J. Hackett to Carolina

C Rex Hadnot to Cleveland

LB Derek Smith to San Diego

LB Jonathan Vilma to New Orleans

K Josh Brown to St. Louis

ESPN thinks Sedrick Ellis will have a big impact this year and really help this defense. Article here.

New Orleans defensive tackle Sedrick Ellis and Cincinnati linebacker Keith Rivers will be stars from the start. Part of that will be due to their own talent. But every first-round pick has plenty of talent.

What will separate Ellis and Rivers will be the situations they landed in. The Saints and Bengals still have talented rosters after subpar 2007 campaigns. Both teams are poised to bounce back, especially after adding their prized rookies. Ellis will be an immediate force in the middle of a defense that couldn't stop the run last year. He'll clog the middle and allow linebackers Jonathan Vilma and Dan Morgan to cover lots of ground and make a bunch of tackles.