Credit: Scott Kinser-Imagn Images
By Ross Jackson
With the first open day of New Orleans Saints OTAs in the books, there are some early takeaways from what was on display at the team facility on Thursday. Here’s a look at three of the most important things we learned, both on and off the field.
Kellen Moore Doesn’t Have Timeline for Alvin Kamara Decision
As the team reported for OTA practices, running back Alvin Kamara wasn’t expected to be in attendance as he often doesn’t attend the voluntary offseason sessions. However, this time around, his not being present sits below a shade of uncertainty as the team has openly expressed a need to “evaluate” his role on the roster.
That conversation is one likely to continue to take time, by which head coach Kellen Moore doesn’t appear bothered.
Moore said that he’s not putting a timeline on the running back’s situation.
The Saints will continue to monitor and evaluate the future of Kamara on their roster, but don’t seem to be in any hurry for resolution at this point. It makes sense, as the team isn’t exactly starving for salary cap space or maneuverability.
Leadership is a Role Up for Grabs in New Orleans
The Saints lost some key leaders this offseason with the departures of linebacker Demario Davis and, presently, defensive end Cameron Jordan.
While the team does have a contract offer out to Jordan, should he choose to continue his career elsewhere, finding new leadership across the roster will be imperative.
Quarterback Tyler Shough is expected to be among the players to step up into one of those roles, but this offseason’s jostling for positions won’t stop at those designated on the roster. Roles for leadership and standard-bearing will be available as well.
New Orleans Isn’t Wasting Time Getting Rookies up to Speed
Shough observed how well rookies are picking up the playbook thanks to the coaching staff throwing a lot at the young group during rookie minicamps.
The Saints haven’t hesitated to introduce nuance to their early practices, including motion, shifts, line of scrimmage calls, substitutions, play action and more.
Moore’s approach to running his practices this way have quickly lessened the gap between rookies and veterans in the early goings of season preparation. That should pay dividends by the time training camp rolls around.
