July 16, 2008

Saints TE Eric Johnson is a strong candidate for a bounce-back year after a disappointing debut season in New Orleans, the way we hear it. Sources say he’s bound to be better this time after scuffling through ’07 while battling a case of the drops, which went against the reputation he had built during the six previous seasons with the 49ers. Word is Johnson looked more comfortable in the Saints’ offense during OTAs and is working on carving out a more defined role in the passing game. The Saints clearly think he has more to offer than what he showed last season, since they re-signed him to a one-year deal in March. Nevertheless, Johnson will share snaps with Billy Miller and Mark Campbell, who missed all of ’07 with a back injury. Campbell’s return could relieve Johnson of some pressure — he’s the team’s best run-blocking tight end and will likely allow Johnson to focus more on his pass-catching duties.