3 Players to Watch at Saints Camp Day 1

With training camp finally under way, there are several intriguing storylines to watch. To get things started, here are three players we will be keeping a close eye on during Day 1.

New quarterback, premier position camp battles, the return of an all-world wide receiver. The New Orleans Saints are far from short on storylines as their 2023 training camp officially kicks off on Wednesday. Here are thee players amidst those storylines that we will be keeping close tabs on throughout camp's first day.

Jul 27, 2022; Metairie, LA, USA; New Orleans Saints wide receiver Michael Thomas (13) during training camp at Ochsner Sports Performance Center. Mandatory Credit: Stephen Lew-USA TODAY Sports

WR Michael Thomas

The single-season receptions record holder is off to a "take two" when it comes to his return. While only being able to make it through three games in his highly anticipate 2022 season, the hope is that Thomas will be full-go and full speed throughout this year's camp. He gets another chance to prove doubters wrong this year and it all begins on Wednesday's first day of camp.

Mobility, change of direction, and conditioning will all be worth keeping an eye on when it comes to the team's star wideout. But he never lacks for a big play or two per day of camp. Watching his chemistry with new quarterback Derek Carr could be indicative of the type of season, should he stay healthy, he may be in store for in 2023.

QB Derek Carr

Speaking of that new quarterback, all eyes will be on Carr as well. As he reunites with head coach Dennis Allen, (as well as a few new roster additions as well) his ability to command and run the offense will surely be under the microscope all camp. 

He looked to be developing good chemistry with the offense during OTAs and minicamp practices, but has not yet been behind his starting offensive line. Hopefully that trend bucks starting Wednesday morning.

RB Kendre Miller

Essentially any and all running backs will be worth watching during the first day, but a lot of eyes will be pinned on the third round selection out of TCU. If he is a full participant on Wednesday, it will be the first time that media will be able to see him in action. After not being able to participate earlier in the offseason due to the MCL sprain he suffered with the Horned Frogs, this provides Miller his first opportunity to participate with his NFL team.

Allen said during his pre-training camp presser that he anticipates every player to be available and participating "in some form or fashion." With that in mind, a guy coming off of injury like Miller could be in a bit of a ramp up process as opposed to being a full participant. But any involvement will be a step forward for Miller who has so far otherwise only been able to watch on from the side as his teammates get in their work.