METAIRIE, La. (WGNO)— The Who Dat nation had their first chance to see the 2016 New Orleans Saints today at day one of minicamp. It was also the draft picks’ first opportunity to show their eagerness to help the team improve on last year’s second-worst defense in the league.
Saints fans are confident the new additions on defense will help.
“I like the additions of Vonn Bell being a deep player, I like Roman Harper coming down field,” said Corey Rholdan.
Sheldon Rankins impressed the crowds today as well, as fans remarked on his explosiveness off the line.
The draft picks are also taking the opportunity to get to know New Orleans before they return to their respective homes for five weeks. Rankins, a first-round draft pick, has explored the culture a little bit since coming to New Orleans at the beginning of May.
“My favorite experience so far has definitely been crawfish. It’s different, a lot of work, but you grow to learn how to do it, it’s pretty fun,” Rankins said.
And second round pick Bell is enjoying the similarities between his alma mater’s fan base and the Saints fan base.
“It reminds me of back home at Ohio state, I’ve seen all of the loyalty from the fans coming out here, in sunshine and rain, they are just out here trying to enjoy the weather with the guys, and just have fun with the atmosphere, so I liked it out here,” said Bell.
Mini camp is free and open to the public through Wednesday. Gates open at 11 a.m.