5 New Orleans Saints with the most to prove in 2016

Nov 8, 2015; New Orleans, LA, USA; New Orleans Saints free safety Jairus Byrd (31) and cornerback Keenan Lewis (21) collide the ball would be caught by Tennessee Titans tight end Delanie Walker (82) and run in for a touchdown during the first quarter of a game at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome. Mandatory Credit: Derick E. Hingle-USA TODAY Sports /

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Dec 6, 2015; Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Indianapolis Colts tight end Coby Fleener (80) runs after a pass reception against the Pittsburgh Steelers during the fourth quarter at Heinz Field. The Steelers won 45-10. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports /

Coby Fleener

The Saints entered the 2016 offseason with little cap space (as usual), and everyone expected them to invest in a defensive player to help one of the worst defensive units in the league. They did sign a trio of linebackers, but the “big money” signing was former Indianapolis Colts tight end Coby Fleener. He signed a 5-year, $36 million contract, which may be considered a very lucrative contract for a player who never really proved he could be a premier pass catcher.

Therefore, Fleener has to produce in 2016 to show the organization and the fans that he was worthy of the big contract. If he can catch the ball cleanly, then he should be in good shape. He has a future Hall of Famer in Drew Brees throwing him the ball and the bright offensive mind of Sean Payton calling the plays.

Hopefully 2016 will be the year where Fleener breaks out and shows that he can be one of the top tight ends in pro football. If he does, then the Saints will have a massive weapon in their arsenal for years to come.

Next: Keenan Lewis