New Orleans Saints

Lacking leverage to push for a lucrative contract extension, WR

Willie Snead came to camp on a one-year, $615,000 tender.

Snead distinguished himself the last two seasons and formed a good rapport with QB Drew

Brees, catching 141 passes for 1,879 yards and seven TDs.

“I came in the back door,” said Snead, an undrafted free agent in 2015 who was cut by the Cleveland Browns and Panthers before catching on with the Saints. “I was the last guy on the depth chart a couple years ago (in New Orleans). And now where I am is a blessing. So I have to keep grinding, stay humble and keep taking advantage of my opportunities.”

Rookie watch: Ryan Ramczyk, 23, got first crack at left tackle. He’ll face competition from two veterans in T Khalif Barnes and Bryce Harris. ... Alex Anzalone is in the mix at weakside linebacker with thirdyear LB Stephone Anthony and others.

Noteworthy: Billionaire owner Tom Benson has reached a long-term naming rights agreement with partner Ochsner Health System for his NFL and NBA training facilities. ... A good battle is shaping up between Corey Fuller and Brandon Coleman for the fourth wide receiver spot. ... Veteran LB Dan-

nell Ellerbe was placed on injured reserve with a foot injury. He will be released in mid-August after receiving a financial settlement. ... RB Adrian Peterson’s Saints jersey is the No. 1-selling jersey this summer in Minnesota. The teams open the season in Minneapolis. ... Veteran G- OT

Orlando Franklin signed a oneyear contract on the eve of camp. The Los Angeles Chargers released him with three seasons remaining on a five-year, $36.5 million contract.