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White Sulphur Springs, W.Va. – John Jenkins has had time to reflect – probably, too much time for his liking.

Sunday was his first training camp practice with the New Orleans Saints, 18 days after the team reported to The Greenbrier resort. And since he also was injured during the offseason and unable to participate in much of the team’s offseason program, his time away from field work – and building on the cohesion and momentum he established during his rookie season – actually was a lot longer than 18 days.

So while getting healthy and working on his weight and stamina, Jenkins has had plenty of time to think about what it means to be an NFL player.

“Nothing lasts forever,” he said. “That’s what I’ve learned. I’ve seen things happen, I’ve seen people come and go.

“I’ve seen situations become big and I’ve seen situations become small. So, I have taken that nothing lasts forever.”

Given that, the second-year nose tackle is ready to make the most of his time, and to improve on a first season in which he significantly was more impactful than the numbers (29 tackles in 16 regular-season games, seven tackles and his first career sack in two playoff games) suggest.

“I’m easing my way back in and trying to make things happen,” he said. “Going through this process was a big eye-opener for me and let me know my responsibility to get back here.”

And Jenkins clearly understands his responsibility for the Saints.


Read more: John DeShazier: John Jenkins ready to make up for lost time with Saints

Lets go Johnny!

Jack Vegas

Like this kid a lot and he seems to be smart about his weight and stuff. I would not care to be on the offensive line across from Jenkins and Hicks when they line up next to each other. Holy moly that's a lot of beef.

QBREES9

LOL.

Rugby Saint II

How has Deadrick played? I read that he was looking good.

ScottF

Other than conditioning, I wouldn't worry too much about lost time. He is a DT after all. Even in Ryan's world I don't expect too many stunts or JJ to drop in coverage

halloween 65

You go get them bulldog!!

Beastmode

A lot of well marbled beef.