phatoosdey

New Orleans Saints - Impending Storm Can Not Slowdown Saints

Impending Storm Can't Slow Down Saints

Doug Miller, NewOrleansSaints.com
Monday, August 27, 2007 - 2:42 PM



The New Orleans Saints went through a full two-hour practice today on the pristine Bermuda grass fields at their practice facility in Metairie.

Shortly after the conclusion of the practice, though, lighting, thunder and heavy rain quickly descended on the area, forcing the Head Coach Sean Payton’s press gathering, which took place on the edge of one of the fields, to be cut a few minutes shorter than usual.

“A little Louisiana liquid sunshine,” CB Mike McKenzie said of the rain as he jogged towards the locker room.

The team went through a spirited and lively workout in the 90-degree heat and high humidity, but by all accounts had a productive practice session, just three days before their preseason finale against the Miami Dolphins at the Superdome (Thursday, August 30, 7:00 p.m.; CST and the Saints’ Radio Network). “We put some good work in out there,” said defensive end Charles Grant. “We were moving at a really good pace and guys clearly know their assignments and what to do. There is a lot of energy right now.”

Payton said following the practice that the Saints, who still need to make three roster moves by 3:00 p.m. on Tuesday, are focusing on three main elements in their practice routine this week. “The first element is making sure we are crisp that what we are giving them in the meetings room and classrooms is applied on the field. The second thing is for us to still evaluate the players and that we are getting for the Dolphins and certainly the Colts. Lastly, we are still making some evaluations on what the final 53-man roster will look like. Each time these guys are in meetings or on the field, it is another opportunity for us to see what they can do.”

The second-year head coach said that the emphasis of today’s practice session was on the base offense and defensive packages the team employs.

With 78 players on the roster, the Saints are easily able to simulate the looks in all three phases of the game that their upcoming opponents may present to them. Payton didn’t divulge how much he anticipated the regulars to play on Thursday evening, instead electing to focus on getting the entire team prepared for the contest.

“I want everyone that can play to be prepared to play,” Payton said. “I think it’s important for players to approach each and every game with the mindset of what it takes to be 100% ready to go. It’s a competitive industry and you don’t approach things differently on a week to week basis, because I believe it throws off the routine of getting ready to play in the games.”

Quarterback Drew Brees said that he understood the coach’s sentiments and has taken the aforementioned approach to Thursday’s game, “I like the routine and the preparation for the game. If you know you’re not playing, it becomes hard to visualize that. If you know you’re going to get out there and get the first couple of snaps, it gives you that opportunity to go through your routine, get locked in, get out there and take control of the huddle a little bit before coming to the sidelines and throwing the hat on.”

Payton did mention, however, that there is a chance he will rest a few players on both sides of the ball on Thursday evening, but didn’t mention any specific players by name.
The overall health of the team continues to improve on a daily basis, as wide receivers Devery Henderson and Marques Colston each made it through the practice sessions looking sharp and showed no indications that their previous injury setbacks are affecting them.

“I feel good and made it through the second practice and am pleased where I am,” said Henderson. “We were able to get right back on the same page with Drew and pick up where we left off, so I am encouraged by that and look forward to getting out there and helping out the team however I am asked.”

Thus while Henderson, Colston and a few other players indeed may be limited on Thursday, their limited action could serve as an opportunity for younger players to make one last statement about their viability for one of the last few, but highly coveted, roster spots.

Notes: Payton said that WR Jamal Jones (knee), CB Jason David (leg) and TE Mark Campbell (back) were held out of practice, while DE Rob Ninkovich (knee) was limited. DT Brian Young continues to make steady progress from his foot surgery and worked through some of the individual drills … today’s meetings and practice routines were along the same lines as what the team usually experiences during an “in-season” Thursday.

N.O. food....N.O. music....N.O. Life!!!

saintsrule

That is great news, to hear about the players who are getting healthier.

sarge06

I hope Ninkovich can get and stay healthy. I think that he will be a huge asset to the team.