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Saints Team Report

Jeff Duncan / Sporting News


LE Charles Grant has made strides with his technique and is emerging as a leader with his work ethic and attitude. Team officials were privately concerned Grant might level off after an inconsistent second season, but now they're excited about his progress. Coaches believe Grant, who is explosive and athletic, can post double-digit sack seasons every year if he commits himself.



Fakhir Brown has played well enough in the offseason to merit consideration for one of the top three cornerback positions. Brown doesn't have blazing speed but has decent size (5-11, 192) and is physical at the line of scrimmage. With a strong training camp, he could be a surprise candidate to start opposite LCB Fred Thomas.

OFFENSIVE TACKLES ANALYSIS

LT Wayne Gandy, primarily a finesse player, is one of the league's best pass blockers because of his quick first step and long arms. He rarely gets beat by speed rushers because of his agility and anticipation. However, he is not a dominant run blocker and lacks lower-body strength. Because of that, the Saints are primarily a right-side running team behind Victor Riley. Riley (6-5, 328) is massive and overpowers linemen in short space. However, he lacks agility and change-of-direction skills and will blow assignments. Spencer Folau is a dependable reserve who can start at either spot. Second-year pro Jon Stinchcomb, who improved his strength in the offseason, will back up Gandy.