NEW ORLEANS — The New Orleans Saints rookies are getting their first taste of the NFL at Rookie Minicamp. But a couple of rookies are not participating this weekend.
Second-round cornerback Kool-Aid McKinstry is rehabbing a foot injury and linebacker Jaylan Ford is recovering from a sports hernia.
The draft picks that are participating are trying to make an impression early.
At the Saints Rookie Minicamp of course a lot of eyes are going to be on first-round pick Taliese Fuaga, out of Oregon State, and where he will fit on the offensive line. As well as quarterback Spencer Rattler.
But no matter if you are a first-round pick or an undrafted rookie, the theme is clear. The opportunity to make an impact for the Saints and how important that is for every guy in the locker room.
"You know I'm just coming in controlling what I can and learn as much as I can", said Rattler. "You know, I want to learn from the guys ahead of me and just work my butt off every day and do what the team needs me to do."
Bub Means, a rookie wide receiver said he's been working for the opportunity his whole life.
"I can't even describe the feeling like, it's not even something I could put in words," said Means. "It's something that you really like, I have been working for my whole life. I did it. I'm here," he said.
Fuaga said he doesn't take it lightly that the Saints drafted him.
"They see something in me. It's nothing personal, I know the other teams that didn't choose me, but you know I'm just ready to give the Saints my all," he said.
Now, when it comes to Fuaga he spent his entire career at Oregon State at right tackle. But during the camp, the Saints are looking at him at left tackle.
Head coach Dennis Allen said that he just wants to see how Fuaga operates on the blindside. Fuaga said he would do whatever it takes to help the squad.
The Saints will wrap Rookie Minicamp on Sunday, May 12.
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