New Orleans Saints: 6 free agents that could turn into extra draft picks

NASHVILLE, TN - DECEMBER 22: Eli Apple #25 of the New Orleans Saints is lead off the field by trainers during the first quarter against the Tennessee Titans at Nissan Stadium on December 22, 2019 in Nashville, Tennessee. New Orleans defeats Tennessee 38-28. (Photo by Brett Carlsen/Getty Images) /

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A.J. Klein

Current contract: $6 million

Projected free agency contract: $6.75 million

Compensatory Draft pick: 5th round pick

Current Replacement: Kiko Alonso/Stephone Anthony

A.J. Klein is coming off his best year in the NFL last year. He had career highs in sacks, touchdowns, solo tackles, and hits on the quarterback. Because of this, Klein will be looking to upgrade his current $6.0 million contract.

The New Orleans Saints traded last year for Klein’s replacement — Kiko Alonso. In 2019, Alonso saw only four starts and 13 appearances. If Klein ends up leaving, the Saints already have a decent replacement in the lineup.

Klein could easily be a starting linebacker on any team and I think that is what is going to draw a bigger contract out of Klein this year. With the Saints already having a quality backup for him, it is likely the Saints let him sign elsewhere this year.