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My quick observations from the Saints' 11th training camp practice Tuesday morning:
1. Akiem Hicks continues to flash
The second-year lineman tossed Zach Strief aside with one arm during pass-rush drills, then later clotheslined Travaris Cadet in the backfield during team drills. Hicks is splitting time between left end and nose tackle and might see time at both spots this season. So far, Hicks' name has come up more often than just about any other defensive lineman in camp. And it's usually unsolicited.
2. Corey White could be the nickel back
My colleagues have seen exponentially more camp time than I have, so I have to defer to their expertise when they say he's had a quiet camp. Regardless, White played well Tuesday and it's a positive sign that he ran with the first-team defense in Jabari Greer's absence. The longer Patrick Robinson is sidelined, the better White's chances are of winning the nickel spot.
3. Rob Ryan's creative sub packages
They were on display during the two-minute drills that concluded the workout. One personnel grouping featured six defensive backs, including four safeties, and four linebackers. All were standing at the snap except the down lineman. Saints fans might remember the package from Ryan's successful game plan when the Browns played New Orleans in 2010. And once again, the package gave Drew Brees fits. Roman Harper picked off Brees on the first play of the session.
4. Undrafted free agent Kevin Reddick
He made a couple of nice 'thumps" from his inside linebacker spot during team drills. He's not the most fluid guy, but he packs a punch when he gets there. Reddick is running with the third-team defense.
5. Let's go to the tape
All Saints players have their names taped across the front of their helmets this camp. Even No. 9 has "BREES" slapped across his headgear. I assume it's an edict by Sean Payton to help the head coach familiarize himself with the roster after his season in exile.
I didn't have time to ask him Tuesday but I'd love to know when the last time was that Brees needed to identify himself in such a way to coaches and teammates. I'm guessing ninth grade or so.


Camp Confidential: Jeff Duncan's impressions of New Orleans Saints' practice on Tuesday | NOLA.com

Lord_Saint83

It doesn't take much to tossed or bull rush Strief aside, that dude is big for nothing. I like Streif for what he does off the field but on the field Im praying someone else starts at rt.


The end is nigh

vpheughan

He's the Head Coach and needs a reminder as to who the players are? Programs!! Get your Programs!! LOL

homerj07

If they put tape on my helmet it would just say.... Dumb Ass!

saintfan

Nope. I'm already wearing that one...

the-commish

Marcel Jones, please.

alleycat_126

Bring it on Corey.... First Nickel Corner, then starting opposite Lewis!!!!

TheOak

The tape is so Drew doesnt throw an INT to himself.


If he will throw one to Harper.... Everyone is fair game.

Rugby Saint II

Now that's just mean..................funny but mean.

hagan714

gee that was insightful