Troubling news on Ryan Ramczyk

Good morning, and welcome to the Wednesday, March 27 edition of the Saints Insider newsletter.

Tuesday was a busy day on the news front. Head coach Dennis Allen met with the media at the NFL's annual meeting in Orlando, and beat writer Matthew Paras had a front row seat for the news-filled session.

Meanwhile, back in New Orleans, Tulane University held its Pro Day at the Saints indoor training facility, where quarterback Michael Pratt put on a show.

Here's our rundown of stories:

A turn for the worse?

Allen took an abrupt shift in tone when discussing star right tackle Ryan Ramczyk at the NFL’s owners’ meetings — telling reporters that the Ramczyk’s availability for this coming season “remains to be seen.” The 29-year-old missed the final four games of last season with a nagging knee injury that he said was related to the “wear and tear” of the NFL. Matthew Paras has the story on the eyebrow-raising news.

Bullish on Chase Young

Allen and general manager Mickey Loomis said this week they did their due diligence in examining free agent defensive end Chase Young and felt comfortable with both the pass rusher’s surgically repaired knee and his neck, the latter of which required surgery and was operated on days after the Saints signed him to a one-year, $13 million contract in free agency. “He’s going to be a really good asset for our defense,” Allen said.

An overdue upgrade

You might have heard that the Saints are upgrading their cafeteria. You also might have heard that the team received poor grades on their food service and nutritional options from their own players. A team executive said the two things have "zero" in common, and that the cafeteria renovation has been in the works for years.

He's baa-aack -- and bashing

Michael Thomas just can't seem to help himself. The former Saints receiver continues to voice his displeasure with his former team and head coach Dennis Allen. He took to social media Tuesday to question how the organization handles injuries. Patrick Magee has the story.

Passing the test

Pratt headlined a group of 16 former Tulane players who worked out for NFL scouts at the Saints complex on Tuesday. Pratt opened eyes with his accuracy and arm strength during passing drills, solidifying his spot as a mid-to-late-round pick in the upcoming NFL Draft. Guerry Smith has the story.

That's all for today. We'll have more coverage and analysis throughout the week.

Until then, have a great day,

Jeff Duncan