saintz08

SAINTS NEWS: Speaking of Sullivan, he reported to the team's offseason conditioning program two weeks ago at about 350 pounds, well above his ideal playing weight of 315. To his credit, Sullivan fought through his poor condition to finish drills, but it wasn't a pretty sight. He has improved his conditioning significantly in the past two weeks. . . .

Second-year man Jon Stinchcomb will work exclusively at left tackle this year. Coaches think Stinchcomb's development was slowed by being asked to learn both tackle and guard positions last season. Stinchcomb has increased his strength and muscle mass dramatically in the offseason and weighs close to 300 pounds after playing at 285 in his first season. . . .

Veteran linebacker Darrin Smith still has a place on the team if he wants it. Smith will be asked to reduce his $2.25 million base salary and his role this season. The Saints want him to play a situational role in passing situations because of his intelligence and cover ability. . . .

The club's interest in free-agent linebacker Ian Gold was never more than cursory. Although Gold made a visit to town, he was never offered a contract. More than anything, Saints officials wanted to gauge the status of Gold's rehabilitation on his left knee and his asking price, which, sources said, ranges from $4 million to $6 million a year. . . .

Congratulations to Saints media relations director Greg Bensel and wife Jane on the birth of their first child, 7-pound, 4-ounce Kate Faulkner, who arrived at 3:45 p.m. last Wednesday.

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