Clint

Ingram

The proposal is probably for the fifth-year minimum, or else Ingram wouldn’t need so much time to accept it. Ingram visited the Saints in late April.

Ingram’s numbers slipped almost by the season during four years with the Jaguars, but when healthy he’s proven a capable run defender, if only on first and second down. The 27-year-old’s transition will be smooth, as he knows DC Gregg Williams’ scheme. He’ll battle JoLonn Dunbar to start at SAM.

Ingram had a scope to remove a cyst and the procedure included some microfracture techniques, which is similar to the way Darren Sharper’s recent surgery was described. Just now getting off crutches, Ingram will watch from the sidelines at next week’s OTAs. He hopes to be ready for full speed by training camp, though that seems unlikely.

Second-round pick Justin Durant or veteran Pat Thomas will get the starting nod on the strong side. Starting defensive end Reggie Heyward (achilles) sat out practice Wednesday while DT John Henderson (shoulder) played, but was limited.

Ingram will be replaced by super athletic rookie Justin Durant.

The 245-pound Oklahoma alum missed the first two games, but is ready to resume starting. Pat Thomas and Justin Durant will go back on the bench.

Justin Durant is now in the middle of what should be the Jags’ strength on defense. Smith is a quality player and a threat for 80 tackles, but Durant is the IDP to target here. Durant should top 100 stops and make more big plays.

Daryl Smith is now on the weak side with Clint Ingram on the strong side. Durant, the No. 48 overall pick in 2007, is Jacksonville’s most physically skilled linebacker. He’ll be a three-down player and an IDP to target this year.

“Durant’s got a good pull,” coach Jack Del Rio said. “He’s week to week and could miss another week.” SLB Daryl Smith will likely kick to the weak side with Clint Ingram starting at SAM linebacker. Durant totaled seven tackles in the first two games. Smith is a fine pickup in IDP leagues.