The craziest New Orleans Saints offseason stories: No. 4, Keenan Lewis outburst
By John Hendrix
The New Orleans Saints offseason was quite interesting. There were so many things that happened, which ranged from released veterans to shocking trades to downright ugly off the field incidents. As much as we hate to say it, the events of this year’s offseason weren’t exactly favorable for the black and gold.
We continue our mini-series that focuses on the five biggest and most shocking storylines from the past several months. Yesterday, we talked about the Pierre Thomas release. Today, we focus on another crazy storyline involving Keenan Lewis.
Keenan Lewis speaks his mind
Dec 28, 2014; Tampa, FL, USA; New Orleans Saints cornerback Keenan Lewis (28) intercepted the ball during the second half against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Raymond James Stadium. New Orleans Saints defeated the Tampa Bay Buccaneers 23-20. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports
Now, let me just preface this entry that this is no shot at Keenan Lewis whatsoever. There’s no doubting Lewis’ passion for his city and team, and it was evident with the events that transpired during the offseason.
However, the New Orleans Saints found themselves in a very awkward position after the releases of veterans Curtis Lofton and Pierre Thomas, and it escalated after the Jimmy Graham to the Seattle Seahawks trade.
Lewis took to Instagram on March 10, posting a photo that said, “I think it’s time for me to take my talent somewhere else. New Orleans it has been good.” In the comment section below the picture, Lewis stated “I only want fairness. I would love to stay and play for my hometown but I only want to be treated fairly.” Lewis was looking for the final three years of his contract to be guaranteed.
On the very next day, Lewis clarified his stance after some backlash. “I want to be here, probably more than any Saints player ever,” Lewis said. In the comment section beneath, he wrote “Listen before I get judged because if you was me, you would be mad how I’m getting treated…..” Following that post came another — “I just want to know.”
Lewis continued voicing his opinion over social media, saying on Instagram, “This is my home, I been here for 28 years. From playing a high school championship in here, to helping (Hurricane) Katrina victims with a little bit of my college funds, to trying my best to help this beautiful home and people get a Super Bowl. I love this place and every person who lives close or in it. Trust me leaving was never an option……I love it too much…..Who Dat…”.
In the aftermath of his social media outbursts, CBS Sports NFL insider Jason LaCanfora reported that the Saints were actively shopping Keenan Lewis on March 13, asking teams not to divulge their inquiries. NFL Network insider Ian Rapoport had a different take, reporting that the Saints were reworking Lewis’ contract to make him happier.
On March 19, we finally learned that Keenan Lewis got his wish. The New Orleans Saints reworked Lewis’ deal, giving him more upfront money in the way of $10.45 million guaranteed.
Since then, Lewis changed his number from 28 to 21, giving his number to C.J. Spiller. Lewis made the swap to honor his idol, Deion Sanders. Furthermore, Lewis promised that anyone who had bought a jersey with the No. 28 could get a new one on Lewis via a receipt.
Keenan Lewis been impressive throughout camp, and looks to be an integral part of the secondary’s anticipated success.