saintz08

Don't look for QB Aaron Brooks to do much running until the pain in his strained quadriceps subsides. The team is concerned Brooks might aggravate the strain by scrambling or running. The injury does not affect his passing.

The defense should be improved because of the additions of newcomers such as E Will Smith, T Brian Young,
MLB Courtney Watson and CB Jason Craft. The unit's speed and athleticism have

gotten better. But the run defense struggled at times in exhibition games, particularly against Jets RB Curtis Martin and Bears RB Thomas Jones. Tackling was a problem.

Rookie LB Colby Bockwoldt, a seventh-round pick, beat out veteran LB Darrin Smith after playing well in the Saints' final exhibition game. Bockwoldt is listed as the backup to OLB Derrick Rodgers.

C Jerry Fontenot lost his roster spot after the team decided to begin the season with eight offensive linemen. Reserves Jamar Nesbit, Jon Stinchcomb and Spencer Folau are capable of playing multiple positions. The team considered Fontenot a luxury.

ROOKIE REPORT: FB Mike Karney played well enough in the preseason to give coaches confidence he can contribute in short-yardage and goal-line situations. Karney, a fifth-round pick, is a powerful, squatty blocker who packs a strong initial punch but needs to work on finishing his blocks better. He also can make plays as a receiver and runner.