Saints: Top 10 NFL free agents for less than $5 million

Keelan Cole, WR, Jacksonville Jaguars

The Saints’ receivers were some of the weakest parts of the roster last year, and that is saying something since they employ Michael Thomas and Emmanuel Sanders. Since they aren’t really likely to get rid of Michael Thomas, there is a good chance Sanders could be on the move.

Sanders is going into the second year of his 2-year, $24 million contract. That leaves $12 million remaining. If they decided to release him, they could sign this Jacksonville standout as his replacement at less than half the cost.

Keelan Cole almost led the Jaguars receiving corps. He finished with 55 receptions for 642 yards and five touchdowns. He was roughly 60 yards from D.J. Chark, and he was tied for the lead in touchdowns for the Jaguars.

Cole would have been just shy of Emmanuel Sanders numbers with the Saints last year. He is just going to do it for half the price. Cole could come in and complement Thomas and Smith and fill the role that Sanders played with the team. What better time to do it than when they get a new QB.

Offer: 3-years, $10 million

Saints’ Savings: $8.7 million per year