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Tweets

Victor Butler’s deal with the Saints is for 2yrs, but can void down to 1 yr based on playing time and production

— Jason La Canfora (@JasonLaCanfora) March 28, 2013

Saints announce 2-year deal with Victor Butler, thus ending an extensive free-agent tour. Dude visited lots of doctor’s offices in March.

— Albert Breer (@AlbertBreer) March 28, 2013

My playbook just got Easier #WhoDat RT @dfalanga: @juniorg93 what’s your thoughts on us signing Victor Butler???

— NuLa C.E.O. (@JuniorG93) March 28, 2013

#TBT They keep asking am I ready 4 OLB lol I LAUGH twitter.com/JuniorG93/stat…

— NuLa C.E.O. (@JuniorG93) March 28, 2013

He played 4 #Rob RT @jvaugha2: @juniorg93 what u mean ur play book got easier?

— NuLa C.E.O. (@JuniorG93) March 28, 2013

#Everything RT @ojizzle504: Ayo @juniorg93 are you gonna be playing outside linebacker or DE?

— NuLa C.E.O. (@JuniorG93) March 28, 2013

Taking off and on my way to DC to watch my boys get another WIN on there march to a National Championship!#UFAMILY twitter.com/TheJimmyGraham…

— Jimmy Graham (@TheJimmyGraham) March 28, 2013

Turns out people really like the zoo! Spring Break twitter.com/drewbrees/stat…

— Drew Brees (@drewbrees) March 28, 2013

Very intrigued by new #Saints OLB Victor Butler. Pure backup to this point, but has been highly productive spot player. Only 25 years old.

— Evan Silva (@evansilva) March 28, 2013

Since January RT @legitimatemedia Welp, that’s it, Saints are out of money, can’t sign anyone else

— Ten Tweet Rebuttal (@angrywhodat) March 28, 2013

“Oh, nice restructures. They were lucky. Can’t see how they make a push for anyone else.”

— Ten Tweet Rebuttal (@angrywhodat) March 28, 2013

“Not sure the Saints can make a play for anyone after signing Lewis. Loomis has spent everything.”

— Ten Tweet Rebuttal (@angrywhodat) March 28, 2013

“No moves left after signing Butler. Free agency is done for the Saints”YAWN

— Ten Tweet Rebuttal (@angrywhodat) March 28, 2013

And so Saints DC Rob Ryan gets one if his former Cowboys LBs, Victor Butler, to help teach his D.

— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) March 28, 2013

The girls got too many friends staying overnight. Bout to start charging rent! instagram.com/p/XaA8jZFt82/

— Benjamin Watson (@BenjaminSWatson) March 28, 2013

Alabama RB Eddie Lacy, who missed combine and ALA Pro Day due to hamstring issue, will work out for teams April 11th.

— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) March 28, 2013

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Saints hope Victor Butler signing will help make them….(wait for it)….Victorious

Victor Butler Screws With Draftniks – Who Dat Social Club
It seems to me that the Saints have been trying as best they can to plug the linebacking corps through free agency both this year and last; and now, in theory at least, they have a pretty good one. Butler, Wilson, Hawthorne, and Lofton looks damned strong on paper, and shame (and woe) unto any coach who can’t turn that lineup into a winning one.

Saints agree to terms with Victor Butler, face competition for Tracy Porter from Raiders
Turning down a similar offer from the Philadelphia Eagles, according to the source who indicated Butler (6-2, 245) may have been offered just a one-year contract by the NFC East team. Butler chose New Orleans where he likely has a better chance to establish himself as a starter.

Saints land athletic outside linebacker Victor Butler | wwltv.com New Orleans
The Saints beefed up their secondary to begin free agency. Now they’ve added their key target at outside linebacker.

Saints Nation: Saints Land Victor Butler
Butler will have a leg up on his competition due to a familiarity with both the position (which Wilson and Galette don’t have), the scheme (which Wilson and Galette don’t have) and the coach as he played for Rob Ryan in Dallas last year. Butler is known as one of the up and coming linebackers in the league that has lots of promise.

New Orleans Saints Agree To Terms With LB Victor Butler
Victory Butler appeared in 16 games with one start in Dallas in 2012

New Orleans Saints’ patience pays off with Victor Butler signing | NOLA.com

If the Saints had signed both Butler and cornerback Keenan Lewis in the opening days of free agency, they would probably be universally praised as free-agent “winners.” Both players are young, up-and-coming athletes just entering their prime years. And they filled two of the most glaring needs on a defense that so desperately needs an injection of fresh blood.

Victor Butler has agreed to a 2-year deal with New Orleans Saints | NOLA.com

Butler becomes the third free agent from another team the Saints have signed this free agency period, joining former Pittsburgh cornerback Keenan Lewis and ex-Cleveland tight end Benjamin Watson.

Victor Butler chooses the Saints | ProFootballTalk

Butler was an effective sub, with 11.0 sacks in four seasons, but he was stuck behind DeMarcus Ware and Anthony Spencer in Dallas. The Saints can offer him more play-time, as they’re desperately looking for pass-rush help as they transition to a 3-4. Having Butler around should help Ryan install his system as well.

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NFL news

With no Hanson deal, Lions looking at Akers | ProFootballTalk
“It’s not a system that provides for a lot of allowance for sentimentality,” team president Tom Lewand said last week. “We have the utmost respect for Jason and want to have him back, but it’s a situation where everything has to fit. The salary cap is a real restraint for all 32 clubs, and we have to operate within that and within our plans. So we’ve had our discussions with Jason and, like I said, we have the utmost respect for him personally and professionally, which is why we want to have him back.”

Vikings unveiling new uniforms on April 25 | ProFootballTalk
Thanks to a hard-to-notice change to the team’s bearded-and-braided logo, the Vikings definitely will have a different uniform in 2013. But the changes apparently will sweep more broadly than the “evolution” of the Viking profile.

Eric Winston thinks it’s “a weird year” to be a free agent | ProFootballTalk
“I’m just kind of looking for the right fit right now, so hopefully that presents itself sooner than later,” Winston said. “I’m eager to get to a team and start the offseason process, but it’s been a weird market. It’s been a weird year for everybody, I think, in free agency. So now it’s just a matter of trying to find the right fit and find a home.”

Teams “constantly” bring up marijuana with Mathieu | ProFootballTalk
“They bring it up constantly,” Mathieu told Bobby Hebert and Deke Bellavia of WWL, via SportsRadioInterviews.com. “It’s really about, they ask me, ‘Why couldn’t you stop and why didn’t you want to stop?’ . . . Those are the toughest ones. Those are the ones that you have to be most honest about. For me, the same thing I just told you, I didn’t want to stop. I just didn’t want to reach out for help. I thought what I was doing was OK, but it’s not.”

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Lagniappe

John Cena at WWE Raw in Philadelphia: Donovan McNabb could not win the big one
John Cena wanted to have some fun with the Philadelphia crowd during WWE’s live broadcast of “Raw” on Monday night, and he knew exactly where to turn. Part of a wrestler’s job is to know the audience and find ways to get under its skin. Cena accomplished that by making a Donovan McNabb reference.

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Video

VIDEO – Barkevious Mingo: “I Would Love to Be a Saint”
DE Barkevious Mingo talks about working with New Orleans Saints coaches at the LSU Pro Day on Wednesday, March 27, 2013.

VIDEO – Tyrann Mathieu Talks About the New Orleans Saints

DB Tyrann Mathieu talks about working with New Orleans Saints coaches at the LSU Pro Day on Wednesday, March 27, 2013.

VIDEO – Kevin Minter at LSU Pro Day

LB Kevin Minter speaks with reporters at LSU’s Pro Day on Wednesday, March 26, 2013.

Read more of this Saints News post via Canal Street Chronicles - All Posts

The New Orleans Saints have finally made another move in free agency, signing free agent linebacker Victor Butler to a 2-year deal.

From what I can tell, Adam Schefter was the first to break the news via Twitter.

Nice pickup in New Orleans: Saints plan to sign Cowboys LB Victor Butler.

— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) March 28, 2013

Local media outlets have already confirmed the signing so it’s official. No word on contract details as of yet.

Butler not only reunites with his former defensive coordinator, but also his Oregon State teammate Kennan Lewis, who the Saints signed earlier in free agency.

A little more info on Butler, from the Saints official website:

Butler, 6-2, 245, was originally drafted in the fourth-round (110th overall) in the 2009 NFL Draft by the Dallas Cowboys, playing in 63 games with two starts and posting career totals of 64 tackles (49 solo), 11 sacks, two stops for a loss, five passes defensed, three forced fumbles and one fumble recovery. On special teams, he’s registered 40 tackles and one forced fumble

I can’t imagine the Saints have much money left to sign a big name free agent like Nnamdi Asomugha now. I would say that door has been closed. But I’ve been wrong before.

More on Victor Butler

• Butler Visiting Saints
• The Strange Case of Victor Butler

Read more of this Saints News post via Canal Street Chronicles - All Posts

Finally!

This is the word that echoed among the dedicated fans of the Los Angeles Angels this week, myself being one of them. Vernon Wells and his albatross of a contract were gloriously shipped off to New York, ending a relationship doomed to fail from the start. This news was celebrated as emphatically as the signings of Albert Pujols and Josh Hamilton were.

Wells, a Shreveport native, represented arguably the most maligned player of the Mike Scioscia era in Anaheim and held the most poorly structured contract in baseball. He took away playing time from younger, more talented players and he mastered the art of the strikeout. These factors conspired to make Wells a guy we loved to criticize relentlessly.

I started to think about similar situations we’ve witnessed with our New Orleans Saints. Who would be considered the Saints’ “Vernon Wells” during the Sean Payton era? The more I considered it, the more candidates began to come to mind. Be it bad contracts, poor performance, or lofty draft status, these notorious Saints all live in infamy for all of the wrong reasons.

Lets take a look at the players and how they have been perceived by Who Dat Nation against the reality of their situations.

Scott Shanle

Shanle has been maligned for so long among Who Dat Nation that it’s almost passé. One of Payton’s original Saints, Shanle was the first free agent signing of 2006 and provided a simultaneously steady and uninspiring presence at linebacker for seven seasons. He couldn’t cover, tackle, or create pressure, but seemed like a great locker room presence, so… yeah. Probably a better player than he is perceived, Shanle just has never been better than his peers.

Jason David

Stop wincing! I know if I say his name two more times it’ll open up some time vortex that will consume humanity, so I’ll be careful. CB #42 is currently in the witness protection program after stealing millions of dollars and a 4th round pick from the Saints. The man might as well have worn a neon target, flashing the words “Touchdown Here!”.

Jason David (Sorry! I know, one more time, end of life as we know it, blah, blah, blah) is not only maligned, but reviled among Saints fans to this day. CB #42 was as bad as perceived, in fact I think Peyton Manning just threw another touchdown against him as you read this.

Reggie Bush

The second overall pick of the 2006 draft, Sean Payton’s first draft pick as head coach, and the perceived savior of the New Orleans Saints. Lofty aspirations, huh? Thankfully that Drew Brees guy from San Diego handled that savior business, but the on-field pressure for Bush never relented. Saints fans waited for Bush to become the NFL’s ultimate weapon, but that never materialized. The perception was that he was a borderline bust upon his departure, but in reality Bush was Payton’s greatest bluff against the opposition.

Bush was better in theory than in execution most of the time. He had his amazing games and incredible moments, but they were few and far between. I always likened Bush to a revolver with one round in the cylinder, the odds were he was harmless, but there was always that chance. When healthy, Payton could always dangle Reggie in front of the opposition. Between constant injuries and lateral runs for zero or negative yardage, Bush found himself a maligned man in New Orleans.

Roman Harper

Where to begin with you? Harper likely went prematurely gray after watching his own game film over the years. “The Neck” has been and will continue to be maligned by Who Dat Nation due to his horrific coverage skills and his hands, which must be shot up with novocaine before each game. When this guy actually breaks up a pass, much less catches an interception, Who Dat Nation has to break out the defibrillators.

Harper’s career is defined by Vernon Davis dragging his carcass down the field for two consecutive drives in the 4th quarter of the 2012 divisional playoff. Harper carries the burden of this loss regarding his execution of Gregg Williams’ asinine playcalling. In reality, Harper continues to be a leader for the Saints in sacks and tackles, he could be an asset in Rob Ryan’s system. That being said, Harper is egregiously overpaid considering his output level. He deserves the majority of his criticism.

Garrett Hartley

The moment he lines up for a field goal, from any distance, fingers cross and stomachs churn throughout Who Dat Nation. He’s still dogged by the misses against Tampa in 2009 and Atlanta in 2010. Hartley can be a bit of a head case and hasn’t always been around when needed during his career. When fans clamor for AARP member John Kasay over Hartley, you know it’s getting rough.

Does Hartley deserve scrutiny? Sure, but his perception’s a little off, he’s not out there shanking kicks at an alarming rate. In reality he’s not costing the Saints game after game. I’m a little skewed on the guy. When it was all on the line for the NFC title in 2009, he kicked the truest field goal I’d ever seen. That kick would’ve been good from 60, and he had every excuse in the world to absolutely butcher that kick. How did he follow that up? Set the Super Bowl record by kicking three 40+ yard field goals. Checkmate (Hartley drops mic).

Mark Ingram

First running back selected in the 2011 draft, the Saints traded back into the 1st round just to get him. More than “just a guy” and less than an all-pro, Ingram is the epitome of a promise and potential player. He is the lynchpin of the overcrowded Saints backfield and without question, the most pressure and expectations rest on his shoulders. Running into the back of the offensive line for two yards is his “money play” and Ingram is the scapegoat when the running game doesn’t gain any traction.

I’ve stated my case regarding Ingram and it’s clear the pressure will be greater than ever this coming season for him. Every season for the last two he’s played, people have said “this is the year he’s gonna break out!” we’ll just see about that. Make no mistake, I hope he does.

Patrick Robinson

“P-Rob” was an absolute reach with the 32nd pick in the 1st round of the 2010 draft. A collective “say what?” echoed throughout Who Dat Nation upon his selection. PRoblem™ (used without expressed written consent of Dan Kelly) led the entire NFL in yards allowed, yards per catch, and touchdowns allowed by a cornerback during the 2012 season.

In short, if this guy were a racehorse, he’d be glue and Whopper patties right now. If his contract wasn’t so damn cheap he’d be joining CB #42 in Parts Unknown, USA. He’s a nickel corner at best, and has no business starting at corner in college much less the NFL. The perception is he’s a liability, in reality that’s being far too kind.

Although there are some worthy candidates here, I think there’s only one clear cut owner of the title of most maligned Saint of the Payton era. Without a doubt, it’s…

Jason David

No… No! What have I done! The horror! The agony! Make it stop, somebody please make it stop!!!

end of line.

Read more of this Saints News post via Canal Street Chronicles - All Posts

Dave, Kevin and Andrew all join Ralph to discuss if Nnamdi Asomugha will ever make up his damn mind on where to sign. They also debate whether the Saints would be better off with Nnamdi or Tracy Porter at cornerback.

Andrew breaks down the signings of Keenan Lewis and Ben Watson.

Why has Victor Butler visited every NFL east of the Mississippi but has yet to sign a contract?

Besides Bryant McKinnie, what are the options at left tackle?

Are Mickey Loomis and Sean Payton awful at drafting in Round 1?

Is Osi Umenyiora going to poop all over the Falcons Super Bowl chances and is he an upgrade over John Abraham? Andrew also expresses pride over his 3 year old’s hate of the Falcons.

Mike Freeman of CBS Sports reported a gay player might be thinking of coming out. Ralph will ask if a player did come out what city would be most accepting and which would be least? A

nd Andrew has an idea to destroy Twitter.

Listen right now to track #1 below, get the feed right here and/or download it on iTunes right here.

Warning: explicit language and adult content.

Read more of this Saints News post via Canal Street Chronicles - All Posts

Tweets

Packers“>#Packers, #Saints, Bengals“>#Bengals make sense. RT @profootballtalk Colt McCoy won’t be with the Browns much longer wp.me/p14QSB-7WTX

— Evan Silva (@evansilva) March 27, 2013

.@lsufball coach Les Miles talking w Saints HC Sean Payton and former Heisman trophy winning QB Andre Ware at Pro Day twitter.com/LSUBonnette/st…

— Michael Bonnette (@LSUBonnette) March 27, 2013

Sean Payton & Les Miles at #LSU Pro Day #Saints twitter.com/Saints/status/…

— New Orleans Saints (@Saints) March 27, 2013

This just made my day!!! Thanks @chipotletweets !!! twitter.com/MalcolmJenkins…

— Malcolm Jenkins (@MalcolmJenkins) March 27, 2013

Former Saint, part of the Reggie trade RT @adamschefter: Cardinals signed former Dolphins S and special-teams ace,Jonathon Amaya.

— Saints Nation Blog (@SaintsNationBlg) March 27, 2013

Look what I just got in the mail! A free burrito everyday for a year!! Thanks @chipotletweets that… instagram.com/p/XXxUSKLGup/

— Malcolm Jenkins (@MalcolmJenkins) March 27, 2013

At #LSU Pro Day – LB Kevin Minter vine.co/v/bj5qxwuYqDn

— New Orleans Saints (@Saints) March 27, 2013

Just had the pleasure of tlkn to some young local fans at the gym. Just wanted high fives and of course know how @drewbrees is lol #loveit

— Joseph Morgan(@jmthegreat) March 27, 2013

At #LSU Pro Day – S Eric Reid in the 40-yard dash vine.co/v/bjiYqBdpY1r

— New Orleans Saints (@Saints) March 27, 2013

At #LSU Pro Day – DE Sam Montgomery with 22 reps on the 225-bench press vine.co/v/bjiF153pH9j

— New Orleans Saints (@Saints) March 27, 2013

@miketriplett Sounds like my pro day.-SG#sarcasm

— team gleason (@team_gleason) March 27, 2013

@profootballtalk The reporting of injuries by players generally dips after a game that is followed by a few days off.Players certainly…

— Scott Fujita (@scottfujita99) March 27, 2013

@profootballtalk …need to get more responsible about that. But anyone who suggests that a Thursday game is no different than…

— Scott Fujita (@scottfujita99) March 27, 2013

@profootballtalk …a Sunday game, has probably never played in a Thursday game.

— Scott Fujita (@scottfujita99) March 27, 2013

Buc fans will be very upset if the club doesn’t consummate a deal for Revis. Lots of pressure on Dominik and Schiano to close this deal

— Ira Kaufman (@IKaufmanTBO) March 27, 2013

Today I will do what others won’t, so tomorrow I can accomplish what others can’t….lets go!

— Darren Sharper (@sharper42) March 27, 2013

Full moon setting over the Pacific…Good morning from California! twitter.com/scottfujita99/…

— Scott Fujita (@scottfujita99) March 27, 2013

Happy Birthday to Junior Galette @juniorg93! #Saints

— New Orleans Saints (@Saints) March 27, 2013

Can’t wait to be back on the field.Staying on the grind isn’t always the easiest thing, but seeing the bigger picture helps stay the course

— Garrett Hartley (@GHartley5) March 27, 2013

I’m suing Capt.America Shoes Inc. for it’s blatant monopoly of my 3yr old son’s wardrobe.

— Jabari Greer (@Jabari_Greer) March 27, 2013

Rise and grind to shine!

— Curtis Lofton (@CurtisLofton50) March 27, 2013

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Who dat talkin’ ’bout dem Saints?

Dwight Freeney could be New Orleans Saints target – NFL.com
Dwight Freeney left Denver Broncos headquarters without a contract last week. Could the pass-rush-needy New Orleans Saints get him if they fail to land cornerback Nnamdi Asomugha?

Linebacker Victor Butler visits Eagles, leaves without a deal
Free agent linebacker Victor Butler visited with the Eagles on Tuesday but left without a contract. There was still mutual interest in getting a deal done, an NFL source said. But Butler has met with a number of other teams, including the Cleveland Browns, New Orleans Saints and Pittsburgh Steelers, and could be mulling over multiple offers.

Report: Saints interested in Dwight Freeney | Saints | The Advocate — Baton Rouge, LA
The New Orleans Saints continue to explore ways to improve their 32nd-ranked defense through free agency. Ian Rapoport of NFL Network repo…

Would James Harrison be a good fit for the Saints? – Who Dat Dish – A New Orleans Saints Fan Site – News, Blogs, Opinion and more.
Dec 16, 2012; Arlington, TX, USA; Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker James Harrison (92) in action against Dallas Cowboys tackle Tyron Smith (77) at Cowboys S

Saints Nation: How Much Did the Saints Really Miss Sean Payton? | March | 2013 Articles

New Orleans Saints Should be Concerned with Left Tackle Vacancy
The New Orleans Saints currently don’t have a starting left tackle and it could become an issue. Find out what options the Saints will have.

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Other NFL News

Colt McCoy won’t be with the Browns much longer | ProFootballTalk
The signing of quarterback Jason Campbell will hasten a move that everyone has been expecting: The Browns will soon part ways with quarterback Colt McCoy. Mary Kay Cabot of the Cleveland Plain Dealer reports that McCoy is expected to be released or traded soon.

Browns still hoping they can trade Colt McCoy, not cut him | ProFootballTalk
But it’s harder to see why any team would trade for McCoy. He simply hasn’t been good enough in his three NFL seasons for it to make sense for a team to give up a player or a draft pick to acquire him. So the Browns will probably cut McCoy. Even if they’re going to take their time about it.

Dolphins confirm new logo | ProFootballTalk
“It was leaked by somebody at Nike,” team CEO Mike Dee said Wednesday after a press conference regarding the ongoing stadium renovation effort, via the South Florida Sun-Sentinel. “We had always had a plan to kind of roll it out over a 30-day period so we’re going to start rolling it out. But the logo is only one part of the announcement. It’s a complete re-branding of the team.”

Plenty of teams have plenty of cap room | ProFootballTalk
This year, teams are required to spend 89 percent of the unadjusted cap. But that number is determined at least for now on a four-year rolling average, which essentially allows teams to pocket 44 percent of a single year’s spending limit from 2013 through 2016. Based on the current cap numbers, some teams are well on their way to that number.

Chiefs lay foundation to trade top pick | ProFootballTalk
With buzz increasing regarding quarterback Geno Smith, including the teams picking second (Jaguars), third (Raiders), and fourth (Eagles) linked to the former West Virginia quarterback, the Chiefs’ best play becomes obvious. Get one of them to trade up to No. 1 to get Smith.

NFL sees no increase in injuries on Thursdays | ProFootballTalk
According to a health and safety press release published by the NFL this week, the Competition Committee asked the league’s medical advisors to study whether there was an increase in the number of injuries — and specifically an increase in concussions — during Thursday night games. And the study said there was no increase at all.

Bucs’ Barber still undecided on return or retirement | Tampa Bay Times
Tampa Bay Buccaneers fans: Keep up with your team news on Bucs Beat, our blog for all things Bucs. St. Petersburg Times sports writers keep you posted on the latest Bucs news, and you can weigh in with your own thoughts.

Reggie Bush steaks his mark in Detroit
Lions running back Reggie Bush, a recent free-agent addition, already has a steak named after him.

Vince Young throws at Texas’ pro timing day – NFL News | FOX Sports on MSN
Vince Young picked some familiar ground as he tries to resurrect his sinking NFL career. Vince Young throws at Texas pro timing day

Manti Te’o lowers 40 time at Notre Dame pro day – College Football News | FOX Sports on MSN
Manti Teo ran a little better on his home field than he did at the NFL combine, lowering his 40-yard time by more than a tenth of a second during Notre Dames pro day. Manti Teo lowers 40 time at Notre Dame pro day

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Lagniappe

Why did the Tennessee Titans hire Gregg Williams? | NOLA.com
“The stuff Gregg said, I heard him say it a hundred times, going back to when we (the Oilers) hired him as a quality-control in 1990,” Munchak told King. “I never thought he crossed the line. It was just the way he talked. Rah rah. No one ever thought he meant to hurt anyone. If I didn’t know him, his words would probably be a problem. But I knew Gregg. I’d heard it all before.

Ndamukong Suh eliminated from ‘Splash’
Lions fans, your prayers have been answered. Ndamukong Suh’s foray into celebrity diving was short-lived. The defensive tackle was eliminated on Splash in a dive-off with former soccer star Brandi Chastain.

Super Bowl champ works as intern – NFL News | FOX Sports on MSN
Super Bowl champion Torrey Smith spent the first month of his offseason the same way many college students spend their summers — interning. Super Bowl champ works as intern

Ex-NFL cheerleader suffers first MMA loss | Yardbarker.com
If you thought being a cheerleader for the Kansas City Chiefs was brutal, try WMMA fighting! I don’t know what’s harder? Let’s be honest. Rachel Wray got in more offense in her first five MMA fig

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Oh Yeah!

Cowboys cheerleaders prep for calendar shoot
Cowboys cheerleaders had a dress rehearsal on for the outfits they will be wearing in the annual calendar.

Read more of this Saints News post via Canal Street Chronicles - All Posts

Dee Milliner, CB, Alabama

Al Davis may no longer roam the earth but if you think he can’t control what the Oakland Raiders do in the NFL Draft you are incredibly naïve. Don’t you people watch Ghost Hunters? If there is a reality show about ghosts then you know it be real.

I did a séance wearing a $3 JaMarcus Russell jersey I found at Marshalls, played NFL Films’ ‘The Autumn Wind is Raider,’ and lit a Mike Shanahan picture on fire to contact Al Davis.

Right on cue Al Davis appeared in all his track suit glory to explain what the Raiders will do with the third pick of the 2013 NFL Draft. The following is a transcript of the conversation I had with Al Davis’ ghost. The Greatest of the Raiders is now on the clock.

“I only have 15 minutes. I have to be back in court. I’m suing St. Peter to move Heaven to Chile. So you want to know what the Raiders will do in the NFL Draft?

“First of all let me just say I hope Hue Jackson falls down a well. St. Paul owes me a favor so if you see breaking news on CNN about a former NFL coach playing the role of baby Jessica you will know Al made that happen.

“I mean Jackson gave up, like, 32 picks for Carson Palmer? To be swindled by Mike Brown, who makes Forrest Gump look like a football Einstein, in a trade is a crime against humanity. And I’m saying this as a guy who picked JaMarcus Russell with the first overall pick.

“The problem with the Raiders is that they have forgotten the key to football success: you draft the fastest guy you can find and hope he has a criminal record.

“Why are they trying to trade Rolando McClain? Getting arrested for writing profanity on a traffic ticket is the most Raider thing you can do. In 1975 John Madden and Kenny Stabler got pulled over doing 120mph on the way to Las Vegas and Madden dipped the speeding ticket in cheese sauce, ate it, and screamed, ‘Hey fascist police pig, I just turned your ticket into fon-f***ing-due.’

“Disrespecting authority is the Raider way. McClain deserves an extension.

“Before I tell you who we will pick let me just say Tom Benson has no guts. If Roger Goodell had suspended my coach for a year, I’d have sued his ass just like I did Pete Rozelle. The only thing I loved more than Super Bowls and tracksuits was pissing off the league office.

“Okay, I’ve got to get back to the Pearly Gates. The Raiders will take Dee Milliner out of Alabama because the only really great picks I can remember making right this second are Charles Woodson and Nnamdi Asomugha.

“By the way, Rob Ryan will do great as the Saints defensive coordinator. Just keep him away from Bourbon Street and Jell-O pudding. He eats it by the gallon and bathes in it because he says it keeps his flowing locks silky smooth. Crazy Ryan billed $15,000 in pudding to me. Funny guy.

“So long. I’ve got to give Rozelle a wet willie.”

Thanks to all the CSC members who participated in this year’s community mock draft. Without your help, none of this would be possible.

Below are the complete results from our community mock draft.

Catch up with all of the mock draft selections in our 2013 CSC Community Draft Section.

Read more of this Saints News post via Canal Street Chronicles - All Posts

I can sense the anticipation and excitement rising in Who Dat Nation as we get closer to the NFL Draft on April 25th. After all, it’s been two years since the Saints have actually had a pick in the first round. Fun Fact: The Saints haven’t had a second round draft pick in three years.

So who could blame us right? Yeah, baby! Let’s do this! Durka durka gumbo gumbo the Draft!!!!

Well you better just shut that s*** down right now and get with the program. Ask yourself this question: what have the Saints ever done in the first round of the NFL Draft during the Payton/Loomis era that leads you to believe the player they select this year is going to drastically improve the team? Seriously. Go ahead and think about an answer to that question. Go ahead, I’ll wait.

Thought so.

Let’s do a quick rundown, shall we? We shall.

2006 – Reggie Bush – They had to take him.

2007 – Robert Meachem – Should have gone defense here.

2008 – Sedrick Ellis – Was it really worth trading up to get this dude?

2009 – Malcolm Jenkins – Mediocre.

2010 – Patrick Robinson – Already trying to replace him.

2011 – Cameron Jordan/Mark Ingram – Jury’s still out.

2012 – Gone because the Saints suck at drafting.

2013 – ???

Fun Fact: The Haslett-era Saints made 6 first round draft selections. Three of them were Pro-Bowl caliber (Will Smith, Deuce McAllister, Jammal Brown). Payton/Loomis are 0/7 thus far.

I’m sorry to spoil the fun, but let’s be a little realistic here. Sean Payton and Mickey Loomis certainly have their talents, like lying, but getting good value in the first round of the Draft isn’t one of them. What’s the opposite of the Midas touch? Whatever it is, that’s what the two of them have when drafting in the first round. The Poop Finger.

Later rounds of the draft? The pair have shown flashes of brilliance. Undrafted free agency? There’s nobody I’d rather have. But is it possible to keep PayLoo the hell away from the Saints’ first round pick because they still just…don’t…get it.

Our only glimmer of hope as Saints fans is that Rob Ryan knows what he’s doing and will be allowed a say in the matter. Assuming the Saints are going to draft defense. Of course the Saints have had three different defensive coordinators already under Payton/Loomis and none of them were any help so why should we expect Ryan to be any different.

Just a warning folks, not a prediction. And certainly not what I hope to see yet again this year. But instead of getting your hopes up about that premiere first-round talent that’ll most likely disappoint us, you might want to shift your focus on the later round prospects who might just surprise us.

We now return to your regularly scheduled mock draft.

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Tweets

“@mrstevenmiller3: 🐰 twitter.com/MrStevenMiller…” I see u!

— Malcolm Jenkins (@MalcolmJenkins) March 26, 2013

Here’s my very own “MegaMom”. I swear she puts the cape away during photo-ops; ) @mrskatrinagreer twitter.com/Jabari_Greer/s…

— Jabari Greer (@Jabari_Greer) March 26, 2013

Just got some news about Nnamdi!!!! Something about to happen real soon. Stay tune #insidesource

— SAINTS and PELICANS(@SaintsBreesus) March 26, 2013

Sources are reporting that Sean Payton’s son loves him some Barkevious.

— Dulymus J Huangstein (@moosedenied) March 26, 2013

YOU SHUT YOUR WHORE MOUTH! RT @reidg75: I can’t imagine Mingo will be around at # 15 for the Saints.

— Dulymus J Huangstein (@moosedenied) March 26, 2013

19 NFL owners are billionaires, with Seahawks owner Paul Allen by far the richest of the bunch wp.me/p14QSB-7WrN

— ProFootballTalk (@ProFootballTalk) March 26, 2013

Show me your “Proud Pop” or “Mega-Mom” pics. Pictures showing why we are so blessed to be called parents! twitter.com/Jabari_Greer/s…

— Jabari Greer (@Jabari_Greer) March 26, 2013

If Columbus was right, This would be the ‘ends of the earth’In St. Lucia w/ @briandelapuente & the wives#amazing twitter.com/JedCollins45/s…

— Jedidiah Collins (@JedCollins45) March 26, 2013

Figured I’d link this today … Here’s a story on Manti Te’o's NFL prospects before Bama and before Lennay-Gate: nfl.com/news/story/0ap…

— Albert Breer (@AlbertBreer) March 26, 2013

Problem for Te’o — Every prospect that plays against Alabama will have that tape as the one scouts put most weight on. And his isn’t good.

— Albert Breer (@AlbertBreer) March 26, 2013

My 4yr old daughter just punched me right in the nuts! OMG😫! If you don’twant any more siblings just tell me!!

— Benjamin Watson (@BenjaminSWatson) March 26, 2013

Bob marley?RT @coreypeters91 I love random documentaries on Netflix.

— Curtis Lofton (@CurtisLofton50) March 26, 2013

I’m already there take a look around I’m the sunshine in your hair your shadow on the ground.Im the whisper in the wind I’m your imag friend

— Joe Horn (@JoeHorn87) March 26, 2013

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Who dat talkin’ ’bout dem Saints?

Report: Nnamdi Asomugha ‘torn’ between 49ers, Saints – CBSSports.com
After getting cut by the Eagles, corner Nnamdi Asomugha is struggling to choose his new team. A new report says he’s torn between the 49ers, where he’d join an elite defense, and the Saints, where he’d be reunited with defensive coordinator Rob Ryan.

Tracy Porter visited the Saints | ProFootballTalk
Interest in Broncos cornerback Tracy Porter is beginning to pick up. After reported interest from the Raiders, he’s also made at least one visit. According to Aaron Wilson of Scout.com, Porter visited the Saints Monday but didn’t immediately sign a contract.

Tracy Porter visits old stomping grounds at Saints facility Monday
The focus on improving the cornerback position by the New Orleans Saints could bring a Louisiana Super Bowl hero back.

Saints Nation: Browns Blogger’s Take on Ben Watson

Drafting LSU’s Barkevious Mingo would require a leap of faith from New Orleans Saints | NOLA.com
NFL teams will get their next look at Mingo and other Tigers prospects Wednesday at LSU’s Pro Timing Day

Where would you rank New Orleans Saints in 2013 NFL power rankings? | NOLA.com
Saints columnist Mike Triplett offers his rankings, with Saints just inside the top 10; most analysts have them just outside the top 10

Antoine Winfield, Not Tracy Porter, Should Be Saints’ ‘Plan B’ at CB | Bleacher Report
The New Orleans Saints are still courting cornerback Nnamdi Asomugha, and according to Ian Rapoport of the NFL Network , Asomugha has narrowed his choice down to New Orleans or the San Francisco 49ers …

Sheldon Richardson makes most sense for Saints in first round of NFL Draft
The New Orleans Saints should take defensive lineman Sheldon Richardson from Missouri with the 15th pick in the 2013 draft. I will make the case via process of elimination.

Potential Saints first round option Alec Ogletree defines risk/reward pick
One player continues to intrigue me in this year’s draft but he comes with a “buyer beware” tag. His name is Alec Ogletree, a 6-3, 232-pound linebacker who is bypassing his senior season at the University of Georgia.

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Other NFL news

Browns rumors: Victor Butler visits, takes physical in Cleveland – SBNation.com
The Cleveland Browns could be on the verge of out-bidding the Saints for the second time this free agency period, as Victor Butler is taking a physical with the team on Monday.

Jermichael Finley staying with the Packers at $8.25M – JSOnline
Ten minutes after the deadline passed, Jermichael Finley announced the news himself.

The tight end is staying put in Green Bay.

Carson Palmer of Oakland Raiders unlikely to restructure — source – ESPN
Despite rampant speculation that quarterback Carson Palmer will restructure his contract, it is highly unlikely he will do so, per one league source.

Former Steeler Harrison still without a contract | TribLIVE

Ed Reed didn’t fully understand the business of the NFL until now | ProFootballTalk
After leaving the Ravens and signing with the Texans, Ed Reed said this offseason has been a wakeup call for him in learning about the business of the NFL. Reed said on 105.

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Lagniappe

Sean Payton Delivers Gift Baskets to Children at Ochsner Medical Center
New Orleans Saints Head Coach Sean Payton helped deliver more than 250 baskets of hope at Ochsner on Monday

Ayanbadejo speaks at Supreme Court rally | ProFootballTalk
On Tuesday, the United State Supreme Court took up the question of whether California’s ban on same-sex marriage violates the Constitution. Outside, Ravens linebacker Brendon Ayanbadejo spoke at a rally supporting same-sex marriage.

Jewelry stolen from Giants Shaun Rogers hotel safe | Pro32: Head to Head
Miami Beach police are looking for a woman accused of taking over $400,000 worth of jewelry from a safe inside Rogers’ room at the Fontainebleau Hotel. A police report shows Rogers reported the items missing Monday after a night out on South Beach.

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The fine folks over at SB Nation’s Mocking the Draft continue to stay true to their name, particularly now during the final lead up to the actual NFL Draft, by releasing mock drafts on the regular. Their most recent mock draft came out yesterday, in case you haven’t already seen it.

I’ll cut to the chase and just tell you now that MTD has chosen Ohio State DT Johnathan Hankins for the Saints at No. 15 overall. Here’s their rationale:

In this scenario, the Saints would likely consider an outside linebacker like Jarvis Jones, but they just gave a fair amount of money to Junior Gallette and Martez Wilson should be able to play the other outside spot. On the defensive line, the Saints have Cameron Jordan and are hoping that Akiem Hicks can become a nose tackle. Will Smith should fit at the other end spot in Rob Ryan’s 3-4 defense, but he’ll be 32 at the start of the season. Hankins can play end or nose in a 3-4 and would give the Saints some flexibility.

Hey, I get the reasoning behind the pick. It makes complete sense. I just absolutely don’t agree with it, nor do I see it happening.

Especially not with Jarvis Jones, Kenny Vaccaro, Ezekiel Ansah, Damontre Moore and Bjoern Werner all still on the board and available for the taking. All of those guys are ranked higher on MTD’s very own Top 200. So to pick Hankins over any and all of these other players is drafting to fill a need and not drafting the best player available. That’s a big mistake.

Tell me I’m wrong.

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Geno Smith, QB, West Virginia

Blaine Gabbert lacks the arm strength it takes to make the down-the-field throws needed to soften up NFL defenses. Last year Gabbert only managed to muster 166 yards per game and 6 yards per attempt. This was bested by first year quarterback Chad Henne who managed 208 yards per game and 6.8 yards per attempt. This has to improve and it starts with West Virginia quarterback Geno Smith. The new era in Jacksonville has begun and things are already looking up.

Yes, it’s only been two years since Jacksonville drafted Blaine Gabbert and some would say he deserves a little more time to develop. I, on the other hand, am not one of those guys. I was never with the Blaine Gabbert movement and still can’t figure out how he moved from a third round talent to a top ten pick. It’s safe to say Jacksonville made a bit of a reach on an average talent Quarterback.

That, however, is no reason to panic Jaguars fans. The Jags have made two great moves with the hirings of David Caldwell as the new general manager and Gus Bradley as the new head coach. These two hirings will prove to be great moves for Jacksonville. The changes won’t stop with the coaching staff either. The new staff is ready for change and they want it now. That’s exactly why the Jags sent their entire coaching staff to Geno Smith’s pro-day. They wanted to get every eye and every opinion on their new team leader.

Thanks to all the CSC members who participated in this year’s community mock draft. Without your help, none of this would be possible.

Below are the complete results from our community mock draft.

Catch up with all of the mock draft selections in our 2013 CSC Community Draft Section.

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