8 bargain free agents the Saints can target in 2022 offseason

7. O.J. Howard

The Saints have had a difficult time finding a tight end in recent years and maybe that will lead them to dip into the free-agent pool. If they do, O.J. Howard is an option for them to consider.

Howard hasn’t put together big seasons in the past few seasons but he has chemistry with Jameis Winston, so if he’s re-signed, it could make sense to pair the two together and rekindle some of that magic they had in Tampa Bay.

PFF projects Howard to sign a one-year “prove it” deal for $4.1 million with $3.25 million guaranteed. That might be too rich for the Saints’ blood considering they still have Juwan Johnson, Adam Trautman, and Nick Vannett, but it feels like it could be worth a shot.

6. Jayron Kearse

If Marcus Williams leaves in free agency, the Saints will need to find a safety to slot into their secondary. Jayron Kearse could be one of the most affordable options to do just that.

PFF projects Kearse to earn a three-year deal worth $15 million with an annual salary of $5 million and $8.25 million in guaranteed money. Compared to what Williams is set to earn on the market, that’s a freaking bargain.

Kearse is strong against tight ends and could be a perfect fit in the Saints secondary.