The turnover in New Orleans seems to have caught some Saints players by surprise.
The pending release of running backDarren Sproles might have been the most flabbergasting news.
"Everything has been shocking," running back Mark Ingram told The Times-Picayune on Sunday. "If something did happen to Pierre (Thomas), it would be a shocker, too. It would be completely different. I would be the oldest guy in the (running backs meeting) room.
"It's crazy to think about, and it's shocking with everything going on. But it's just the business side of everything. Those guys in the front office are doing what they think is best to have success this year."
Regardless of what happens to Thomas -- who was reported to be on the trading block -- Ingram and second-year pro Khiry Robinson are poised to see an increased workload.
Ingram understands the changes are a "double-edged sword." He hates seeing friends leave the locker room, but he now will get more opportunities to play.
"It's an exciting time in my career," Ingram said. "I just want to take advantage of my situation and the opportunity that's presenting itself. Just want to prove to the organization that I can be the back they wanted -- an every-down back, (the) type of playmaker that they need.
"I'm excited about my situation. It's unfortunate to see a lot of guys go, but I'm excited about my opportunity that I have coming up."
That opportunity might be as the primary running back in the Saints' backfield.
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