Stephen Lew-USA TODAY Sports
By Ross Jackson
There are no distractions for the New Orleans Saints now as they begin training camp this week.
The last big hurdle, the NFL’s changing second-round pick landscape, is now cleared after signing rookie quarterback Tyler Shough to a full guaranteed contract.
After that, the team still has a few things it could do. But not necessarily anything that would create a sense of concern or produce a dark cloud over the team’s practices.
Even one of the team’s biggest potential extensions was headed off at the pass. With wide receiver Chris Olave entering his fourth year, the team could have pursued an extension this offseason. But after New York Jets wideout, and Olave’s former Ohio State teammate, received a four-year, $130 million contract this offseason, it seems highly unlikely those two sides meet at the negotiating table until after this season.
New Orleans could extend their choice of a few others. Cornerback Alontae Taylor would be an easy choice. But that negotiation could likely happen without generating much distraction, much like linebacker Pete Werner’s deal last year.
With Shough’s guaranteed deal in the books, the Saints should be able to walk into Wednesday’s first day of training camp practices with everyone that’s healthy in attendance and with no contract complications looming.
New Orleans should see a distraction-free start to camp.
