Saints settle into camp, ready for game action

No matter where it is conducted, in West Virginia or near West Metairie Avenue, at some point, camp is camp.

Ten days into training camp, players are ready for preseason games to begin. But, for a handful of players, like rookie free agent wide receiver Seantavius Jones of Valdosta State, every practice and every play is big.

In the first week, Jones got an attaboy from head coach Sean Payton. Payton noted that training camp is just the continuation of a good offseason for Jones.

And, Jones has something that Payton desires – size. At 6-foot-3, Jones gives quarterbacks a “big target area,” according to Payton.

Wide receiver Nick Toon, who has four receptions in his NFL career, also got a Payton endorsement. “He’s done real well,” said the head coach.

A pair of former first-round draft picks are on the clock. Running back Mark Ingram, drafted in 2011, knows only an outstanding season will likely extend his black-and-gold career. General manager Mickey Loomis hinted at such a scenario in his remarks on the opening day of camp.

“I think Mark will do well,” said Loomis. “And, he will receive a nice contract. Hopefully from us, but if not, from some other NFL team.”

Cornerback Patrick Robinson, selected two rounds ahead of Jimmy Graham in 2010, has performed well in the opening days as he tries to win a starting spot opposite Keenan Lewis.

Graham is showing no rust from missing an entire offseason in his contract stalemate with the club. And, after he practiced with his team for the first time since January, Graham said all the right things.

“I didn’t get into football to learn litigation,” said Graham of his franchise tag grievance that was eventually lost.

Why did he sign only a four-year contract? “I just wanted a contract,” said Graham.

Graham worked the entire offseason in Miami with former Saints linebacker Jonathan Vilma. “Jonathan Vilma dedicated his entire summer to me,” Graham said.

Payton was impressed. “I told Jimmy he should spend every offseason in Miami,” said Payton.

In practice, Graham ran a corner route, caught a strike from Drew Brees and turned upfield.

“This is too easy,” said Graham.

After a 16-touchdown regular season, you wonder what Graham can do for an encore.

And, the same can be said for Rob Ryan’s defense. The Saints defensive coordinator was standing on the practice field in a water break.

“Hey Rob, thanks for the defense,” yelled a fan in the stands. Ryan took a slight bow.

Can Ryan and the Saints build off a 12-win 2013 season? It is a question that will be answered soon.

Ed Daniels is sports director of ABC26 WGNO. He can be reached at [email protected]