BillyCarpenter1

Carter impressing Saints

The Saints are raving about the play of cornerback Dale Carter, which was a major concern heading into this season.

Carter, whose off-field problems are well-documented, missed eight games last season for violating the league's substance-abuse program. When he returned, he played decently but not nearly as well as the Saints had hoped. He then fractured his arm in the season finale. Those on the field could see the bone was broken, but Carter wanted to tape it up and continue playing. That's toughness.

And now, in his first training camp in three years, Carter is a highlight show, according to the Saints staff. His intensity has also been impressive.

During one drill this week, the team had the kickers and punters running some pass routes for some fun. Carter jumped in to cover them and verbally challenged one of them. That's how into this camp Carter has been.

With Carter on one side, an improved and healthy Fred Thomas on the other side and Ashley Ambrose as the nickel back, the Saints should be markedly improved at corner.

At safety, free-agent signing Tebucky Jones has been everything the Saints had hoped. He did get into a scuffle with fellow safety Mel Mitchell during one practice over communication. The two had to be separated, but they later made up, realizing that they might be the team's starting safety duo for the next four or five years.



http://www.sportsline.com/nfl/story/6511201