Free Agency: Breaking down the remaining Defensive Ends

Calais Campbell

Calais Campbell is easily my favorite target for the Saints among the remaining free agents. And that’s even in the event that they resign Nick Fairley.

I know that I said Sheard’s role would be limited to DE in the case of Nick Fairley resigning. And the same likely holds true for Campbell. Campbell played a lot of DT for the Cardinals over the years, and in some schemes may be better suited playing inside than along the edge.

But Campbell, more than Sheard, is an incredibly versatile and talented player. If the Saints could land him, I’d be more than happy to see him line up at DE opposite Cam Jordan.

Campbell is the complete package. He’s athletic, he’s fast and strong, he’s quick, he’s got moves, he’s got bend, he’s got excellent hands, he’s a consummate pro. He’s getting up there in age but has shown absolutely no signs of slowing down. If I were the Saints, I’d be prepared to throw the kitchen sink at Campbell to get him to New Orleans.

If they did manage to bring in Campbell, I’d consider letting Fairley walk. Campbell has the versatility to move wherever is needed along the line, and with Rankins, Onyemata, and Davison already locked onto the roster, both Fairley and Campbell might be overdoing it.

But with the prospects left on the board, I’d also be happy with going after both. Like I said, Campbell can play along the edge. Fairley, Rankins, Onyemata, and Davison can rotate on the interior. That’s a big defensive line.

Plus, he can help mentor some of the youth on this group. Onyemata has some of Campbell’s physical gifts; I can’t think of a better tutor for the Canadian transplant.