What there is to learn from Saints’ rookie minicamp

By Ross Jackson

Football returns to the New Orleans Saints’ practice field on Friday as rookie minicamp kicks off. The camp will offer an opportunity for the local media to get our first look at some of the Saints’ newest talent, players trying out for new opportunities and returning practice squad players getting an early jump on their returns. 

Here are some of the biggest storylines worth watching as the camp kicks off. 

Which drafted rookies are healthy and available

While it’s known that fifth-round defensive back Lorenzo Styles Jr. isn’t expected to be available to participate until training camp or partway through it, any additional absences could still be possible. An early appearance by wide receiver Jordyn Tyson could quell any remaining concerns about his injury recovery, one of the more pervasive stories of the draft cycle. 

Usage of versatile rookies

Although offense versus defense action is limited during this portion of the offseason, seeing the different elements of the game players are working on is always informative. For example, tight end Oscar Delp was primarily utilized as a blocking tight end with Georgia, but is expected to see that role expand in New Orleans. We may be able to begin to glean the early details of that usage during rookie minicamp. 

Interesting position decisions

An undrafted free agent out of the University of Wisconsin-River Falls, Kaleb Blaha, played quarterback in college. However, the 6-foot-2, 201-pound player is listed as a wide receiver with New Orleans. This has been seen often across the league and often linked the Saints’ previous success with versatile quarterback Taysom Hill. Blaha will certainly draw interest here. 

Wide receiver Damien Alford

This is an intriguing one. Canadian Football (CFL) signee Damien Alford has great size at 6-foot-6 and 224 pounds. The former first overall pick in the CFL could make a statement early getting a head start with the Saints as a player with professional experience, though at a different level. His imposing build should make it easy for him to stand out. 

All the drafted rookies

This is always the hallmark of rookie camp, the first chance to see the new draft class. From Tyson and Delp to new defenders like defensive tackle Christen Miller and versatile cornerback TJ Hall, getting a look at the key offseason investments can provide a lot of context.