Good morning, and welcome to the Thursday, Sept. 5 edition of the Saints Insider newsletter. We're now just three days away from kickoff of the 2024 season. The anticipation is building on Airline Drive. The Saints returned to the practice field on Wednesday as they began preparations for their season opener against the Carolina Panthers on Sunday. The Hungry BadgerAt 5-9, 190 pounds, Tyrann Mathieu is one of the smallest defenders in the NFL, but he still plays with a large chip on his shoulder. Even after 11 seasons, three All-Pro honors and a Super Bowl ring, he still feels like he has something to prove. Matthew Paras tells us what fuels the Honey Badger after all these years. Bracing for BryceThe Saints know Bryce Young will be under center for the Carolina Panthers when the teams meet at the Superdome this weekend, but they're not 100 percent sure how he will be utilized in his first year under new head coach Dave Canales. The offseason makeover in Charlotte adds to the intrigue and mystery of the Saints' opener, head coach Dennis Allen said. Confident CamAt least one person in New Orleans is a believer in the Saints this season. The eternally optimistic Cam Jordan appeared on the St. Brown brothers podcast recently and told them he firmly believes the Saints can win the Super Bowl this season. They need to start, though, by making the playoffs, he said. Walking woundedThe first injury report of the season was released on Wednesday, and seven Saints were listed on it. Luke Johnson has the full report for both teams. Know before you goBefore you head out to attend the season opener on Sunday, it's important to double check the rules on what you're allowed to bring inside the stadium. Julia Guilbeau tells us what you can and can't bring to the game. That will do it for today. We'll have more news and analysis as the Saints ramp up preparations for this weekend's season opener. Until next time, have an awesome day, and thanks, as always, for your loyal support. Best, --Jeff Duncan |