NFL mini-camps: New Orleans Saints
The New Orleans Saints have two minicamps scheduled for this offseason. The first one took place from May 7 to May 9 in Metairie, Louisiana, and was for rookies only. Starting June 4 and going to June 6, the whole team will participate in a minicamp.
The defending Super Bowl champions used their first round selection on cornerback Patrick Robinson out of Florida State. The 32nd overall pick utilized his long arms to demonstrate good ball skills. Head coach Sean Payton was impressed with how well he has learned the Saint’s defense.
In the third round, New Orleans selected tight end Jimmy Graham out of Miami. While his athleticism was never questioned, many felt his talent was raw and that he would take some grooming before he could contribute. Midway through the rookie minicamp, Coach Payton says he’s further along than expected. “If you were just watching, he’s been a guy who has stood out,” Payton said. “He has things to learn, but he’s willing to do that and he’s smart.”
Coach Payton was also fond of the performance of undrafted free agent defensive end Junior Gallette. He mentioned Gallette’s quickness in getting off on the ball. He went on to add that it is tough to evaluate talent without helmets and pads, so Gallette will really get his chance to show what he can do at the team’s June4-June 6 minicamp.
As a result of the rookie minicamp, two unsigned rookies who were trying out were offered spots on the team. They signed former Auburn wide receiver Montez Billings and former Kentucky linebacker Sam Maxwell.
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