There are only two padded practices left for the New Orleans Saints before they host the Jacksonville Jaguars in joint practices. Headed into the next phase of training camp, some injuries and surging talents are now under the microscope as the Saints return to the field for practice day nine.
S Jordan Howden
Starting safety Julian Blackmon left Saturday’s practice with a knee injury. The severity of the injury has not yet been announced. Still, it would not be surprising to see him sit out Sunday. New Orleans has been cautious with injuries throughout the offseason.
That could mean safety Jordan Howden could be in line to step into more reps with the first-team defense.
Howden’s found his way into starting lineups on a number of occasions and has been a solid contributor when tasked to do so. Going into a contract year, he’ll get an early chance to establish his value as the team’s top depth piece at safety with the versatility to play both as a deep safety and as a box defender.
EDGE Tyree Wilson
As the recent addition continues to get more comfortable in the Saints’ defense, edge rusher Tyree Wilson has become a more disruptive defender.
Wilson has created congestion in the run game while also generating pressure as a pass rusher. He has shown the potential to become a contributing depth piece in a physical edge rusher room.
WR Chris Olave
After being checked on the sideline in Saturday’s practice, wide receiver Chris Olave returned to action. He reeled in a big catch over the middle. The collective relief could be felt from the team’s sideline upon Olave’s remaining on the field.
Seeing him return to team drills at the next practice would be a positive sign. It would indicate that the wideout avoided a significant injury.
