Next to Drew Brees, Demario Davis is the second greatest free agent signing in New Orleans Saints history. A recent conversation with Kay Adams, Davis teased the idea of testing the market again, by saying he's coming back to the NFL when asked about a return to New Orleans. Davis has signed multiple extensions since joining the Saints, so this would be the first time Davis would hit free agency since 2018.
This isn't something Davis just threw out there either. He's given it enough thought to discuss how he fits on playoff teams. Davis feels some of these teams are missing a veteran to help their younger players take that next step and proceeded to say that's where he's most valuable.
One thing Davis did do was shut down a reunion with Sean Payton in Denver. Davis left a lot of things on the table, but when asked about the chances of landing in Denver, Davis made it clear that team doesn't need him.
It's far from to panic on Demario Davis leaving the Saints
Adams reacted as many other Saints fans would, in disbelief. The idea of Davis leaving feels like unlikely. He's still playing at a high level and is the general of the defense on and off the field. The off field contributions are where Davis feels his greatest value lies. The combination of it all is partially why it feels so unlikely that he'll leave.
Cam Jordan does this too. As he gets older, Jordan seems to emphasize "as long as the Saints want him." It's always been a part of his desire to be a lifelong Saints, but it does seem a bit more prominent in his speech. Jordan recently said he's 94 percent sure he's returning to the Saints next season.
Davis' comments give off a similar feel of "you never know what could happen." Davis does take it a little further by speaking on playoff teams needing a veteran, but Davis also mentioned the development of young Saints defenders Alontae Taylor, Kool-Aid McKinstry and Chase Young. The same benefit Davis feels he could give to young players around the league, he knows he can provide that at home as well.
It's far from time to panic, but it's enough to monitor the situation. Davis staying in New Orleans seemed to be pretty cut and dry until now. The Saints should still be viewed as the betting favorite for his services, but the certainty has dipped a bit.