A case can be made that Paulson Adebo is the top free agent for the New Orleans Saints. His only competition is Chase Young, and part of Young’s value is the position he plays. However, Adebo missed the majority of this past season with a broken femur, and is still expected to have a lot of suitors.
2024 was expected to be a breakout season for the young cornerback, but it instead turned into a nightmare year, with Adebo playing just eight games. In those games, he had quite a few lows, being penalized nine times, but saw some highs as well, recording three interceptions and 10 pass deflections.
He did more than enough for the cornerback-needy Saints to want him back, but so will some other teams. Here are five teams that could lure Adebo away from New Orleans.
5. The Jaguars could take Paulson Adebo away from the Saints
The Jacksonville Jaguars have quickly unraveled as a team after two straight years of going 9-8. In 2024, they went 4-13, landing the No. 5 pick in the draft. One of the reasons they’ve struggled as a team is because they need help at the cornerback spot. Things are so dire for Jacksonville, it may actually need Travis Hunter to play both sides of the ball if he lands there.
In addition to hoping for that, the Jaguars could also sign Paulson Adebo in free agency. While he is coming off an injury and a roller coaster of a season, he’d be a significant upgrade for Jacksonville.
4. The Lions could use Paulson Adebo
A team that could’ve accomplished more last season with a deeper cornerback room is the Detroit Lions. Detroit was undoubtedly one of the best teams in the league, but their injured defense led to their demise. Now, the Lions have to worry about Carlton Davis possibly leaving in free agency.
If they’re unable to re-sign Davis, Detroit could pivot to Adebo. Adebo would bring experience and solid cornerback play, as the Lions try to get over the hump and actually make it to the Super Bowl.
3. The Packers should have interest in Paulson Adebo
Green Bay’s interest in Adebo could also be determined by what happens early in free agency. The Packers have already made it clear that Jaire Alexander is available for trade, and Eric Stokes is about to be a free agent. Green Bay has a promising young quarterback in Jordan Love, as well as a lot of really good players on both sides of the ball. That should result in aggressiveness this offseason, which could be signing Paulson Adebo.
2. The Bills could be an option for Paulson Adebo
The Buffalo Bills have been knocking on the door of a Super Bowl appearance in recent years, but they haven’t been able to get over the hump. Understanding that their window is still open, they should be prepared to address any holes by any means.
One hole could be at the cornerback spot, with veteran corner Rasul Douglas entering free agency. The Bills are tired of seeing the Kansas City Chiefs dominate the AFC, so they’ll be looking at any player that could help change that, including Adebo.
1. Paulson Adebo could stay in the NFC South with the Falcons
The Saints and Atlanta Falcons have a serious rivalry, so switching sides is pretty frowned upon. However, Atlanta undoubtedly has a need at corner, and players are always looking for the deal that makes the most sense for them. If the Falcons offer that deal, don’t be surprised if Adebo is playing the Saints twice a year.