Just before the Saints’ first practice of training camp, a torrential downpour with frequent lightning forced them to go indoors and close the workout to fans, leaving a stream of cars to turn around and go home. The receivers had their way with the defensive back almost from start to finish, turning in several big plays.
Who’s here: Almost everyone but third-round draft pick DT Akiem Hicks, who sat out with a fractured hand he suffered during organized team activities in June. The spots on the WR depth chart are wide open behind starters Marques Colston and Lance Moore, who made a spectacular leaping grab over S Malcolm Jenkins on a deep throw from Brees, bringing the ball in while falling to the ground.
Adrian Arrington made several plays, including a nice catch over the middle from Drew Brees. Veteran Devery Henderson, the presumed No. 3 receiver, had a tough day, dropping one throw and adjusting poorly for a deep Brees pass when he was open.
The DBs, who combined for only nine interceptions a year ago, struggled to get their hands on the ball in practice. When S Malcolm Jenkins did, he dropped it.
Who’s not: Aside from Hicks, coach Sean Payton and LB Jonathan Vilma are suspended for the season for their roles in the bounty scandal. Vilma was in federal court in New Orleans trying to get a temporary restraining order that would allow him to practice.
Interim coach Joe Vitt and starting LB Scott Shanle testified in Vilma’s behalf before heading to the practice facility.
Follow Saints reporter Guerry Smith on Twitter @CBSSportsNFLNO.
