Jimmy Graham's first comments since incident in L.A.

Happy Friday and welcome to the September 8 edition of the Saints Insider newsletter.

The NFL season is officially here now. The Detroit Lions, coached by former Saints' assistant Dan Campbell, beat the Kansas City Chiefs on Thursday night in the season opener. You have just two more days until you see your Saints start their season when they host the Tennessee Titans. 

We have plenty of news and stories for you as we get a little bit closer to Sunday's noon kickoff. 

Jimmy Graham talks

Tight end Jimmy Graham spoke to the media Thursday, his first public comments since he was taken into police custody in August after what the Saints say was a medical episode. Here’s what Graham had to say about that incident in California and more.

The tipping point

“The tipping point” has been our theme in our series of previews leading up to the season, and that’s the focus of the latest from columnist Jeff Duncan. See why this is a make-or-break year for the franchise.

Filling Kamara’s shoes

The Saints, as you know, won’t have Alvin Kamara for the first three games of the season due to his suspension. The team will count on Jamaal Williams to pick up the slack. Here’s my story on how Williams is embracing the role.

Some good news

The Saints look like they will have arguably their best player available for Sunday. See whose status was upgraded Thursday and also see what other players were on the injury report.

One-on-one with Derek Carr

Here’s something new that you will see throughout the season. Each week, Saints quarterback Derek Carr will give an exclusive interview with The Times-Picayune. He’ll give his thoughts on things you can’t get anywhere else. Click here to see what Carr had to say leading up to his first game as the Saints’ starter.

That's all for today. Check nola.com throughout the day for more content, including our predictions for Sunday’s game.

Enjoy your weekend and as always, thanks for reading.

Rod Walker