Saints OTAs: What to Watch For and Storylines

We're about to have three weeks of Saints OTAs, so what are the things to keep an eye on as we run through the practices?

The Saints are practicing this week, as we're entering Phase Three of the offseason. Here's some of things to know and pay close attention to over the next few weeks for the black and gold.

OTAS OVERVIEW: Phase Three of the offseason starts on Monday, which consists of four weeks of practices (up to 10 days) for each team without pads. The Saints have theirs on May 23-25, May 30-June 1, and June 5-8. These will not have live contact and are strictly voluntary. The practices are allowed to have 7-on-7, 9-on-7, and 11-on-11 drills without contact. Mandatory minicamp for veteran players will be June 13-15.

WHO'S OUT THERE? Dennis Allen said last week that he doesn't expect 100 percent attendance, but the turnout should be 'pretty good'. Specifically, we're monitoring players who have been injured like Trevor Penning, Cesar Ruiz, and Michael Thomas. Just an appearance would be huge in their recovery process. However, we shouldn't put all of our stock in it. For others like Payton Turner, it's almost imperative that they are out there to be in a complete offseason program.

NEW COACHES AND PLAYERS: We haven't talked to any of the free agent additions since their introductory press conferences after their free agency signings. So, essentially this will be when we get to speak to them a bit more and officially watch them in action. Foster Moreau may lead the pack here, as he's one we haven't spoken with yet. His story is incredible, to say the least. Aside Moreau, getting to see more of the free agent additions will also be good. The team's free agent class includes Derek Carr, Nathan Shepherd, Khalen Saunders, Jamaal Williams, Jonathan Abram, Lonnie Johnson, Storm Norton, and Bryan Edwards. 

We also can't leave out the new coaches and seeing their impact. Joe Woods was among those who were easy to see stand out with a very hands-on approach at rookie minicamp. In addition to Woods as the team's new defensive coordinator, Dennis Allen's revamped staff includes Clancy Barone (tight ends), Todd Grantham (defensive line), Marcus Robertson (secondary), and Kevin Carberry (assistant offensive line). A familiar face in Jahri Evans will also be on Allen's staff. 

EARLY POSITION BATTLES: OTAs won't tell us too much, but it will be interesting to see who lines up where without some of the key players in attendance. For instance, who gets some action in the slot? We've been talking about the real possibility of Alontae Taylor getting reps there since February. Wide receiver is an easy battle to highlight over the next few months, as well as the linebacker depth and offensive/defensive line. New Orleans isn't done with additions at several key positions, so seeing how that comes together will be intriguing. 

MORE ROOKIES: Jake Haener and A.T. Perry were among those who made a good first impression on us at rookie minicamp. We'll get to see more of the rookie class and how they integrate with veteran leadership in the building. Kendre Miller is the only rookie who won't be in full action, but he'll be around. This feels like a stellar class the Saints had, and hopefully they can make an impact reminiscent of 2006 and 2017.

Saints News Network will be at each available practice weekly to break down the latest and greatest, so stay tuned.

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