With the first week of preseason almost here the preparation is getting ramped up a bit. The Saints host the 49ers next Friday in New Orleans, and we’ll get a chance to see lots of key players in action. Here’s how things have been going so far:
Who’s Hot
Jabari Greer – In the absence of Tracy Porter, Greer has really showcased his abilities and proven that he’s clearly a top cornerback on the roster. He all know what he’s capable of when he’s healthy, and that looks to be the case currently. He’s had numerous pass break ups, interceptions, and in general he’s been tearing it up so far.
Johnny Patrick – Another cornerback who’s drawn praise from his coaches. You know a rookie must be doing really well but Gregg Williams has anything positive to say. Patrick has impressed many with his man coverage ability. We all expect him to make the team, but he’ll get a chance to play and contribute if he keeps it up.
Devery Henderson – You can question his catching ability, but you can’t question his ethic. As always, Henderson has been working very hard to rebound from a dismal effort on his part last year. He’s regained his top flight speed thanks to his hard work getting fit and he’s done a terrific job making plays. No one works harder than Henderson and he seems poised to stick around and put that terrible season behind him.
Matt Tennant – Not only is this a golden opportunity for him to start, even with the signing of Olin Kreutz, but Tennant has handled all the distractions masterfully. Between Goodwin being absent, then Goodwin signing with the 49ers, then Kreutz visiting Saints camp, then Kreutz signing, Tennant should really be commended for handling everything like a true pro. He’s said all the right things and he continues to work hard and keep a positive frame of mind. He’s showing a maturity well beyond his years and don’t rule out the young center beating out Kreutz for a starting spot.
Who’s Not
Drew Brees
– I’m definitely not worried and it’s very early in camp, but Brees is a little rusty so far. He’s been off target, he seems to be missing timing with his receivers, and he’s thrown a good number of interceptions. Brees has been distracted all offseason by a lot, and I’ve made vocal my concerns that this guy never seems to take a moment to just relax. I hope his extra curricular activities don’t haunt him this season as they did last year. Still, if there’s anyone I trust to right the ship from a shaky start to practice, it’s Brees.
Charles Brown – The Saints’ tackle is entering his second year and first off he hasn’t shown enough to make the Saints comfortable with letting Jermon Bushrod go. Bushrod was re-signed because the Saints didn’t feel Brown was ready. Brown has been dealing with a hamstring issue all of camp so far, and he just always seems to be banged up despite never playing. The USC product is off to a very slow start in his NFL career.
Chris Ivory – Not only is he still far from recovery on his foot issue, now he’s dealing with a hernia surgery as well. I doubt we see him in a Saints’ uniform come week 1. I believe he’s PUP material and we won’t see him till week 7. I hope I’m wrong but I think there’s just no way he’s going to be ready by the 3 week timetable the team is giving us right now.
Add The Sports Daily to your Google News Feed!
