The addition of free agent RT Jermane Mayberry fills the lone major hole in the starting lineup. The Saints return 21 of 22 starters from last season, so right tackle was the only hole to fill. Though he played right guard in Philadelphia, Mayberry anticipates no problems moving to right tackle for the Saints. He started there in 1999 and has experience at the position in college. The Saints' switch to a ball-control, run-oriented offense should facilitate the transition since Mayberry won't be asked to work in pass protection as often. His strength is drive blocking and he isn't particularly agile, especially when asked to play on an island. The emphasis on the running game was one of the primary reason Mayberry cited in his decision to sign with the Saints. . . .

The decision to recruit FS Dwight Smith in free agency could spell the end of Tebucky Jones. The club solidified the other safety spot when it signed SS Jay Bellamy to a three-year contract extension. Free safety, though, is an area team officials want to upgrade. Jones is a big hitter who is physical in run support, but the Saints are looking for a ball hawk who can make more plays on the ball. The defensive transition to more man-to-man, bump-and-run coverage places a premium on a centerfield that can make plays on the ball. That's not Jones' strength. . . .


The tight end position was supposed to be a strength with Boo Williams and Ernie Conwell last season but it was a major disappointment. Williams continued to struggle with inconsistency. He dropped too many balls and was guilty of mental errors. Conwell, meanwhile, is on the downside of his career. He has made himself into a strong blocker but is no longer a threat in the passing game. With this in mind, the Saints have decided to pursue a veteran tight end in free agency with Itula Mili and Shad Meier at the top of the list.


HARD TRUTH: Team officials believe they have the luxury of selecting the best player available in the draft but the defense desperately needs an impact player at linebacker. The club hasn't invested a first-round pick at the position since Mark Fields in 1996 and that has shown on the field. Young LBs Courtney Watson, Colby Bockwoldt and James Allen are solid starters, but the defense lacks a difference maker at the second level. With that in mind, the Saints should make it a priority to invest one of its first two picks in next month's draft on a player that will upgrade the position.

link