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Posted by David Gladow
August 16, 2007

There's Marques Colston and then a bunch of other guys.

Right or wrong, that's the impression many NFL fans have of the Saints wide receiving corps. And given Colston's rookie season (70 receptions for 1,038 yards and eight touchdowns), it's hard to argue that point. Still, it's not as huge a discrepancy as some might think. Veteran David Patten has been in the league for 10 seasons and achieved some nice career numbers (259 catches for 3,761 yards and 20 touchdowns). Devery Henderson, now a three-year veteran, set career highs with 32 catches for 745 yards and five touchdowns while starting seven games for the injured Joe Horn. Even Terrence Copper wouldn't exactly be called green after three years in the league and 23 receptions last year.


So what on the surface to some casual observers may be seen as a weakness, thanks to the departure of Horn, actually looks more like a strength upon closer inspection. And with the presence of promising youngsters like Robert Meachem and Lance Moore, the Saints' wide receiving corps may be one of the deepest positions on the team. That has to be music to Drew Brees' ears.

Here's one person's view of how the receiving depth chart will shake out with the Saints' training camp now in the books.

1.) Marques Colston - A no-brainer at this point, Colston is showing no signs of a sophomore slump this offseason. If anything, he and Brees have developed even better chemistry. Get used to watching these two hook up, as it will happen often in '07.

2.) Devery Henderson - Henderson showed a lot filling in for Horn last year and gets first crack at the starting spot this year. Why? Because he can make any defender in the league look silly with his speed, that's why. That's a great place to start for anyone, but Henderson has also stepped up in training camp, making himself into a more reliable option in the passing game. He figures to have a very good year.

3.) Terrance Copper - It's a tough call between Copper and Patten for this spot. The question is: Would you rather have experience or potential here? Copper showed signs of becoming a great playmaker in a limited role last year, while Patten suffered another injury-plagued season. His experience is nice to have, but can you rely on Patten at this point? Give Copper the nod.

4.) David Patten - His Super Bowl rings with New England carry a lot of weight around these parts, but he's now three years removed from his last good season. Another injury in training camp (turf toe) didn't help matters, but he can probably still make this team, and if he does, he's good enough to get playing time.

5.) Robert Meachem - He's definitely had his ups and downs, but the Saints have a ton invested in him and they have to see what he looks like in game action. He hasn't had the best of camps like some players, but his potential in undeniable (that great touchdown reception against Buffalo illustrates that). Sure, bring him along slowly in special situations, but get him out there some.

6.) Lance Moore - Even though he's listed sixth, Moore may have his position locked up as much as any of the others due to his great return skills. He may not make anyone forget about Michael Lewis this year, but he definitely has the ability to make some noise returning kicks.

Missed the cut:
Jamal Jones, Tramain Hall, Aaron Hosack, Derrick Doyle

Battle royale: Sorting out the Saints' receivers - David Gladow - New Orleans Sports

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