All Things Saints: Your Daily News 2/25
By John Hendrix
Oct 6, 2013; Chicago, IL, USA; New Orleans Saints running back Pierre Thomas (23) is congratulated by tackle Zach Strief (64) for scoring a touchdown against the Chicago Bears during the second quarter at Soldier Field. Mandatory Credit: Rob Grabowski-USA TODAY Sports
We’re back with more news, and speaking of news, Did you check out Episode 2 of Who Dat Dish Radio? We appreciate all of the support Who Dat Nation hs shown in regards to the podcast, and we can only ask that you keep it up!
At any rate, we have some news today to bring to you!
Mike Triplett | ESPN.com | Saints show interest in re-signing Haralson
"METAIRIE, La. — The New Orleans Saints have had some preliminary discussions about re-signing free agent linebacker Parys Haralson, according to a league source. It sounds similar to the initial talks they’ve had recently with fellow veteran free agents such as right tackle Zach Strief and receiver Robert Meachem."
I could had just put this as an article in itself. I honestly think that Haralson is a huge value to the team. I ranked him as the #7 priority for all of the Saints scheduled to become free agents. With Haralson coming off of a season ending injury, and the team looking to sign him as a backup to Victor Butler, I hope this move works out. I believe Haralson is undervalued, and I encourage everyone to look back on film at his impacts in run defense.
Katherine Terrell | NOLA.com | New Orleans Saints offensive lineman Ben Grubbs to hold charity softball game on May 15
"New Orleans Saints guard Ben Grubbs will hold his second annual charity softball game at Zephyr Field on May 15.At least 30 current Saints players are expected to participate in the game. Proceed will go toward the Ben Grubbs #66 foundation, which benefits local area Boys and Girls’ clubs."
I love the fact that players do events in the off-season to help benefit others. It just really speaks to their character. Here’s a direct link for anyone in the New Orleans area wanting to purchase tickets.
Mike Triplett | ESPN.com | Brandt: Graham debate tough to predict
"If Graham is considered a tight end, the Saints can maintain his rights by offering him a one-year franchise-tag salary that is projected to be around $6.8 million this year. However, Graham’s camp is expected to file a grievance through the NFL Players Association, asking a third-party arbitrator to rule that he should be considered a wide receiver instead. That would require a one-year franchise-tag salary of around $11.6 million."
As I’ve previously stated, this is going to hurt the Saints one way or another if a deal cannot be reached in the next two weeks. We don’t hear a lot about what negotiations are like behind the closed doors, but you have to wonder how far apart the teams are. Back in October, I tackled the burning question of How Much Would You Pay Jimmy Graham? I’ll reiterate that he is well deserving of being paid as the league’s ‘Highest Paid Tight End’. That alone makes Graham a rich man. I believe Graham’s long-term deal is going to be a high figure, and Mickey Loomis may be looking to work a deal out where Graham doesn’t kill the Saints salary cap at once. We’ll see as these next two weeks unfold.
Jeff McLane | Philly.com | Lots of options at safety for the Eagles, but many aren’t great
"Considering his combination of upside, age, size, and market value, Malcolm Jenkins may be the safety the Eagles target. A converted cornerback, Jenkins has never quite lived up to expectations, but at only 26 he could benefit from a change of scenery and scheme.The 6-foot, 204-pound Jenkins has missed only seven starts at safety over the last four seasons. He is versatile and would function as an interchangeable safety in Bill Davis’ scheme, but he struggles at times in pass coverage and as a consistent tackler."
I don’t exactly agree with McLane’s assessment of Jenkins not living up to his expectations, but there is merit into what he is saying. I honestly don’t see Jenkins returning to the team, there’s just not enough room.
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