Dennis Allen said he expects everyone here for minicamp
— Nick Underhill (@nick_underhill) June 9, 2022
One of the biggest reactions that usually pops up during the NFL offseason is the overblown concern over players not present at organized team activities. The thing is, OTAs are voluntary. For the New Orleans Saints and several teams around the league, especially without offseason activities for the last two season, absences during those three weeks are not usually of concern. The first big test comes when mandatory minicamps roll around.
The Saints will host their mandatory minicamp June 14-16. During that time, head coach Dennis Allen expects that all players will be present. There was a collective of veterans not present throughout OTAs as well as some that only partially attended. While some questions the veteran players’ connection to their new head coach, others saw the absences as a matter of no concern.
Allen made it clear early in OTAs that he was comfortable with all of the reasons players were not present; for instance, newly-signed wide receiver Jarvis Landry missed the first week to attend his 5-year old daughter’s preschool graduation. A full showing at next week’s minicamps should clear up any further concerns or questions around the teams makeup. It’s also worth mentioning that missing minicamp results in a $95,877 fine under the collective bargaining agreement.
However, full attendance does not also mean full participation. Star wide receiver Michael Thomas is “doubtful” to participate over the week according to Allen while he continues to recover from ankle surgery. But Thomas and others who have not been able to do on-field work have been present at the facility focusing on rehabbing and recovery. Next week, we should see a 100% presence across the roster though, which is always a positive sign. It’s all setting the stage for an exciting Saints training camp later this summer.
