White Sulphur Springs, W. Va. - The New Orleans Saints hit the practice field for the first time at training camp presented by Verizon at The Greenbrier. It was the first of two practices this week before donning full pads this weekend. Here are some Day One observations from camp:

1. The news of a tougher camp this year is more than just talk. The pads are not even on yet, and you can already sense a more intense environment. It started to show right after the team formally stretched out.  Defensive coordinator Dennis Allen put the entire defense through 40 up-downs. That's not normal. The day also featured a crisp tempo. And while there was a high amount of teaching on Day One, as expected, there too was plenty of time allotted for highly competitive periods.

2. It was great to see the Saints defense get their hands on the football several times. Rookie safety Von Bell picked off Drew Brees. Linebacker Craig Robertson also carded an interception. There were a handful of other passes tipped away. There was one offensive highlight worth sharing during full team periods. Receiver Drew Brees hauled in a long pass over his shoulder, down the right sideline from Luke McCown.

3. Worth noting. ... second year offensive lineman Andrus Peat worked at left tackle Thursday with Terron Armstead sidelined. ... Veteran safety Rafael Bush was not a full go in team periods meaning more reps for newcomer Erik Harris. ... Understandably the Brees contract situation has the attention of the media and the fans. It was clear Thursday, though, that Brees and his teammates are not phased by the process. It was good to discover that pros are being pros.