10 things we learned about the New Orleans Saints this offseason

With OTAs and mandatory minicamp in the rearview mirror, the New Orleans Saints will enjoy a break before rookies report for training camp on July 19. It’s been an eventful offseason that included several major storylines around Sean Payton, Deshaun Watson, LSU Tigers homecomings, and much more.

All revolving around what should be an impactful draft class and a rejuvenated passing game. From the returns from injuries for Jameis Winston, Michael Thomas, and Wil Lutz to the departures of heavyweight free agents Marcus Williams and Terron Armstead, the Saints have undergone a good amount of change this offseason.

Through that change, we learned a lot of valuable things about the organization, the roster, and coaching staff that will be worth keeping an eye on throughout training camp as it begins in July. Here are ten things we learned about the New Orleans Saints this offseason:

1
The Saints intend to not only compete, but win in 2022

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The organization’s offseason approach started off on a similar foot as those past. The team played things close to the vest and patiently, focusing on in-house free agents first. But their aggressive draft strategy yielding them two first-round selections, the signings of safety Tyrann Mathieu and wide receiver Jarvis Landry compounded with returns for Jameis Winston, Michael Thomas, and even Wil Lutz show that the Saints don’t intend stop at just being competitive in 2022.

2
Leadership is a very important team-building ingredient

AP Photo/Jason Behnken

The signings of Mathieu and Landry were immediate signals as to how much this organization is valuing leadership this offseason. Looking at the draft and UDFA classes further drives the point home as well. Many incoming rookies have served as team captains or have held some type of leadership role in college or in their communities. Many of them checked multiple boxes. Add on the extension they wrapped up with linebacker and emotional leader Demario Davis and there is no question how much value has been put into leadership.

3
This is “the people’s team”

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You want LSU Tigers? You got LSU Tigers. The Saints are often noted for not drafting players from the prominent in-state football program an hour away up I-10. But they certainly didn’t shy…