Jeremy Shockey, Part 2, in New Orleans

Jeremy Shockey has never been shy. The former University of Miami star has been outspoken since arriving in the NFL. Recently Shockey has been in the news for his Las Vegas escapade, passing out in a bathtub after suffering from dehydration. Now back in New Orleans with a renewed since of dedication, Shockey is ready to begin his seventh season, and issued a statement to those that question his dedication.

"It's always good practicing, leading up to the season. But the No.1 thing to keep in mind is it's during the game when it counts, not when it's out here with pillows on your shoulders. It's when you have the pads on and you're going against a real opponent." I find this statement curious. Watching this years draft, I listened to Steve Young talk about the importance of drafting young men who love the game of football. These are the types of players who love every aspect of the game, practices, watching video, studying the playbook. To be fair, Shockey goes on to say he just wants to help the Saints win and he hopes the players and coaches know that. I just think they'd rather see it on the field and that includes the practice field.

I don't know. I grew up watching Mark Bavaro of the New York Giants and Brent Jones of the San Francisco 49ers. Those men weren't flashy or popular like Shockey, they were just good football players. Maybe it's the era we're living in, too many temptations for these athletes with so much time and money on their hands. Jeremy Shockey has the tools to be a great tight end, but injuries have slowed him. Now, I'm no doctor, but you wonder if a guy who dehydrates in Las Vegas is taking care of his body properly.

Shockey, a pass-catching tight end, is on the pass-happy Saints, this should be a beautiful match. Drew Brees had Antonio Gates in San Diego and would love to have a go to tight end in New Orleans. Maybe this year Shockey stays healthy and gives Brees yet another threat, scary thought for Saints opponents.

While Shockey was in New York, he often complained that he was asked to block too much and feared it would shorten his career. Now that he's starting his second season, with his second team, the success of the remainder of his career depends on him.

Sources:

http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2009/football/nfl/06/05/shockey.saints.ap/index.html