re: Saints Training Camp: Day 8 Takeaways and Observations

GENERAL OBSERVATIONS AND NOTES
Jon Gruden was in attendance for practice. He should be here for the next several days in an observer capacity to help with any input. There were some periods where he was talking a lot with Alvin Kamara and Derek Carr.
Jahri Evans continues to integrate and insert himself in practice with the interior offensive line. We see a lot of Doug Maronne as the main authority there. Several players have complimented what Evans brings to the table for the group.

It could be situational, but Jordan Howden looks like he's the extra defensive back in the pecking order right now. During walkthroughs inside with him on the field, he was actually in the back half of the defense with Marcus Maye. Marcus Robertson was coaching him up on positioning and such.
Alontae Taylor is growing in the slot, as well as Ugo Amadi. Amadi made a few nice plays on the day and is a climber.
Zack Baun is a frequent picked on target in the passing game. There's some growth needed there, but there was one play that stood out that is a compliment to his growth. It was during 7-on-7's when he was able to chase down Kirk Merritt, which is no easy feat. We'll see where things are at when we get into the preseason.
Wil Lutz ended up missing two of his kicks today, finishing 5-of-7. He missed his second kick after hitting the right uprights in his first few attempts, and then when he missed his first kick in the second frame was wide right. Lou Hedley was the holder.
Blake Gillikin handled punting duties on the day, and here's all the unofficial hang times I have from the day: 4.81, 4.41, 3.46, 4.48, 4.61, 4.51, 4.38, 4.75, 4.03, 4.50.
We're seeing a little bit more two running back sets in the offense. There was one of the plays in walkthroughs that had Alvin Kamara run an angle with Jamaal Williams going into the flats.
Kamara was also among the punt return group today that included Keke Coutee, Rashid Shaheed, Ugo Amadi, and Chris Olave.
One of the things Trevor Penning said today that's worth relaying. He said that his injuries were more bad luck than anything. First injury was toe got caught in the turf. Wasn't even sure on second, as it was after the play. He also talked about working on technique some, how to plant on his feet.

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