who do you think that we were trying to get?

Saints stay aggressive off field
Posted: Sunday July 27, 2008 08:41AM ET
In late April, the New Orleans Saints provided a behind-the-scenes preview of how they would approach the 2008 season. Working the phones during the NFL draft, team officials completed a trade to move from the 10th spot in the first round to No. 7 so they could select Southern Cal defensive lineman Sedrick Ellis. Thrilled that they got their man, the Saints then went for the double whammy, calling teams in the No. 10 range in an attempt to snare another high pick. Club officials were willing to deal a 2009 first-round choice and 2008 second-rounder to make the move, but a willing partner couldn't be found. Still, the turn of events highlights how aggressive the Saints have been this year and why - following last week's acquisition of Giants tight end Jeremy Shockey for 2009 second- and fifth-round picks - they must be considered one of the NFC's top contenders. The Saints aren't just marching. They're marching with a purpose.