Saints’ Rookie Kenny Vaccaro Involved In Practice Altercation With Jimmy Graham

METAIRIE, La. (AP) — Saints first-round draft pick Kenny Vaccaro describes himself as someone who loves football and plays recklessly.

That might explain why Saints ball carriers and receivers sometimes end up on the turf when crossing the rookie safety's path during drills that aren't supposed to involve full tackling.

Vaccaro says he'll dial back his aggression if coaches order him to, but adds that his defensive teammates tell him they love the way he practices, even if Saints offensive players seem a little agitated at times.

During Tuesday's practice, Vaccaro wrestled the ball from tight end Jimmy Graham while the pair rolled on the ground after a simultaneous catch. Later, Vaccaro flattened veteran running back Pierre Thomas.

Vaccaro was drafted 15th overall by New Orleans, whose defense ranked last in 2012.