Saints training camp diary, August 6: quarterback competition update

Though largely on purpose, the final days of camp neither illuminated a leader in the battle to succeed Drew Brees under center nor did the contestants justice. Alvin Kamara’s controls will remain paramount in Sean Payton’s creative system; we really need to see what every quarterback is doing at this point in the economy.

It’s slightly disappointing that the looming preseason doesn’t have an apparent favorite for Game 1 against the Baltimore Ravens. I would say Jameis Winston finished the week with the advantage after a strong Friday session that built on his strengths. It has also had more deviation from its course in recent days. Hill has yet to genuinely impress after a real performance at quarterback; he also threw fewer red flags, collectively.

The worst thing that could happen would be for a starter to stumble in the default role; No matter who you root for in this battle, we should all want a quarterback to eventually win it on merit. Instead, it has turned out so far: which is the lesser of two evils? One of the two quarterbacks is due to move the needle next week and by a large enough margin to award a true favorite. Developing positive traits that stick to one or both quarters is essential. Equally important is the awareness of the irremediable or strong downward trends in this race.

A Helpful Perspective Reset: Trey Lance isn’t arguing for the starting role because Jimmy Garoppolo loses it. Lance demands attention due to his marked improvement in mechanics, leadership presence, and ultimately lightless play.