Fazende: Five takes from Saints practice #5

NEW ORLEANS (WVUE) - Take One: Pads come on

Monday was a big day for the Saints for practice #5. The pads came on for the first time and, as usual, the intensity picked up quite a bit.

The team’s first padded practice was also their longest practice to date. They worked for about an hour and forty minutes. Instead of 7-on-7, the team had 1-on-1’s with wide receivers vs. defensive backs and offensive linemen vs defensive linemen. They were able to work through four separate team periods throughout practice.

Take Two: Offense’s best day

It may not have been a perfect day for the offense, but it was their best work to date. In fact, I’d give the offense the edge over the defense for the first time all camp.

Tyler Shough felt in rhythm for much of practice. He connected with Chris Olave on an out route for a first down over Kool-Aid McKinstry during the first team period.

In the second team period, Shough found DeVaughn Vele on a similar route for a first down. Then, in one of his best passes of the day, he climbed the pocket to connect with first round pick Jordyn Tyson on a dig route.

During the final team period, Shough turned a busted play into a big connection to Travis Etienne up the sideline. On the next play, the pair connected again on a flawless screen pass. Etienne caught the ball and patiently set up his blockers to run for a big gain.

The offensive play of the day had to go to Barion Brown, who caught a fantastic over-the-shoulder pass from Spencer Rattler.

The offense certainly had their mistakes, but it felt like that group to a small step forward on Monday.

Take Three: Defense Highlights

The defense may not have been quite as dominant but they still made plays.

During 1vs1’s, Jayden Price, who’s quietly had a good start to camp at backup star, picked off a pass.

In the second team period, cornerback Dalys Beanum stepped in front of a Zach Wilson pass for an interception.

Take Four: Special teams details

The Saints spent some significant time with special teams Monday.

Charlie Smyth kicked field goals once again and went 5/6. His long was from 54 yards, but his lone miss was from 44. Right after that miss, Smyth tried again from the same distance and drilled it through.

Punter Ryan Wright had a good day placing punts inside the ten-yard line.

Special teams is an area where the Saints made a significant investment in improvement.

Take Five: Other Observations

• Earlier in practice, Brown dropped a deep ball from Rattler on a play action play. For Brown to come back and make a play to end practice, was definitely a positive for him.
• On the final period of practice, Alvin Kamara got three straight touches with two carries and a reception.
• Cesar Ruiz was out Monday. Dillon Radunz played right guard in his place.
• Off day for the Saints on Tuesday. They return to work Wednesday in pads.

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