New Orleans Saints execs look even smarter than they expected after first training camp practice of 2024

The New Orleans Saints made a couple key decisions for their roster this offseason. They have not extended veteran running back Alvin Kamara, and they added linebacker depth that can have a major impact on their defense in 2024.

How do those decisions look early on for New Orleans? Pretty good.

Linebackers are standing out already at Saints practice

Both Willie Gay Jr. and Demario Davis made key plays during the initial practice of camp.

Gay was one of the most important signings for the Saints during the offseason, alongside Chase Young. He provides impressive depth at linebacker and can allow Pete Werner to play in certain scenarios where he cab flourish.

Plus, Werner has dealt with injuries over the past two years. Gay Jr. can be insurance if that occurs again. If not, the Saints possess arguably the best LB trio in football.

Demario Davis grabbed an interception early in practice. The veteran was one of the most impressive players for New Orleans during OTAs. Now, he is showing up once again - to no one's surprise.

Anfernee Orji is a young linebacker who is getting more reps with Nephi Sewell on the shelf. Orji has been a practice squad guy so far with New Orleans, but the door could be open for him to make the roster.

Expect a heated battle between he and rookie Jaylan Ford for potentially the final LB spot on the active roster. Both have intriguing athleticism for the position.

Kamara showing up amid contract disputes

Alvin Kamara is reporting and dominating already at Saints training camp. He had a great showing on the field and at the microphone Wednesday afternoon. The veteran RB looks spry, healthy, and determined to prove himself as a top talent inn the NFL once again.

He understands the doubt against him after some less-than-efficient last two years and the business of the NFL, but those won't stop him from being a great teammate in New Orleans.

“I’m here. I’m playing.” -- Kamara on his status if he does not get a new deal

All in all, the Saints look pretty smart after a couple of key choices made by their front office this offseason. We will see if a reworked contract comes to fruition for Kamara and the team, but those talks don't seem particularly active at the moment.

Related: New Orleans Saints HC Dennis Allen drops the hammer on young player after first practice of training camp