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Young corners impressing at Saints' rookie minicamp
By Bob Heist
Louisiana Gannett News

Of the seven players drafted by the New Orleans Saints, coach Sean Payton said it would be hard to pick one that is performing better than cornerback Usama Young.
Taken in the third round out of Kent State, Young has a physical presence at 6-0, 198 and has impressed with his speed and ability to break on the ball.

“The first impression is important, and Usama’s a guy that’s certainly made one,” Payton said. “He has our attention.”

Payton also added that David Jones, another cornerback selected in the fifth round out of Division II Wingate (N.C.), has also performed well.

“I’ve really been pleased with both those young corners,” Payton said. “Those guys are showing they can play.”

There’s a growing belief that both Young and Jones have great opportunities to make the team and that 12-year veteran Fred Thomas’ days with the club may be short.

“I’m not worrying about any other player – I’m focused on myself,” Young said. “I hope the coaches think I’m doing well, but I can’t say I feel that. I’m doing OK, but I have a long ways to go. The level of competition (at mini-camp) is high, and we haven’t even gotten the veterans in here yet.”

"We may have lost the game, but you'll be hurting tomorrow." Doug Atkins