In recent years, the New Orleans Saints have become an elite football franchise in the NFL. Although it is still pre-season, expectations for the Saints could not be higher. In the last preseason game of 2014 the Baltimore Ravens are in town. Being in the Superdome when filled its faithful Black and Gold is simply a "Saintsational"" experience. With a revamped roster this year's journey should be exciting. Not only do the Saints give football fans in and around the city an exceptional team to cheer for, but more important they bring the city of New Orleans together once again for a common goal. After going 11-5 in 2013 and winning the franchise's first ever road postseason victory, the Black & Gold season was cut short by the Seattle Seahawks in the second round. Subsequently, roster changes followed shortly. The dynamic and versatile running back Darren Sproles was traded to the Eagles and Lance Moore was cut. To make up for this loss the saints resigned Pierre Thomas to a three year deal and Mark Ingram is in a contract year so production from them is expected to rise. Another good sign for the offense was when Super Bowl MVP Drew Brees came into training camp saying "Each and every year I can still get a little bit better. I'm not in the decline like most guys in their mid-thirties, but in my mind, I'm not in my mid thirties; I'm 25 years old." A rejuvenated Brees is great because he has choices as far as aerial arsenal; the speedy Brandin Cooks was drafted with the first round pick from, Kenny Vaccaro and Marques Colston return to complete the wide receiving core. Finally after weeks of negotiations all pro tight end Jimmy Graham signed a 4 year deal worth $40 million with $21 million guaranteed. With these puzzle pieces in place barring any unexpected injury; Drew Brees is without doubt a candidate to pass for 5000+ yards.
Thursday night's game against the Ravens not only ends the 2014 preseason, but also a reminder of what happened to this city less than a decade ago.
