When was the last time the Saints started the season hot? Seems like they're always stumbling out the gate. The defense is very young, new safety, new nickel corner, new middle linebacker, new defensive end. It could take a while to get everything smoothed out.

Ingram's gonna be missed. Not just his talent running the ball, there's probably a couple guys on the bench that can rush.
But Ingram knows this offense, he knows what the other guys on the offense are gonna do.
He's pretty dependable when it comes to blitz pick up.
He's also the short yardage guy, he's been known to rock a linebacker for an extra yard.
And he catches 3-4 passes per game for a respectable 7.2 yard average.

It's gonna be tough for someone to step in and do what Ingram does.

Our offense will not be as balanced as it was last year, but I am not concerned. Brees had 140 fewer attempts last year than '16, his lowest total in 8 years. I'm comfortable with 5 wide sets and him throwing 10 more times a game for the first 4 games.

Short yardage is my only Worry. Line? I also wouldn't be against renting one of the numerous backs available: Murray, Lacy, Charles, Morris

If you sign any veteran prior to week one you have to pay them for the entire year ... even if they are only on the roster for four weeks. That's why I believe Payton when he said that the Saints will not be looking outside for RB coverage during Ingram's "vacation".