New Orleans Saints: 10 players that could be gone in 2016

Sep 13, 2015; Glendale, AZ, USA; Arizona Cardinals tight end Darren Fells (85) catches a 17 yard touchdown as New Orleans Saints inside linebacker David Hawthorne (57) defends during the second half at University of Phoenix Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matt Kartozian-USA TODAY Sports

David Hawthorne

If you pan over anyone on the current 2016 Saints roster that seems to be an ‘automatic’ cut, it’s David Hawthorne. Hawthorne has been with the team ever since the 2012 season, and is scheduled to count for $4.51 million against the salary cap. If the team were to cut him as part of their pre-June 1 cuts, they’d save $2.25 million. Considering Hawthorne took a pay cut in March, was beat out by rookie Stephone Anthony during training camp and preseason, and has struggled to remain healthy, he’ll be one of the first cuts the team makes to get under the 2016 cap.

Set to turn 31 in May, Hawthorne is well on pace to finish his fourth straight season with a negative Pro Football Focus grade. His tenure with the Saints has been extremely underwhelming.

Next: Zach Strief