3 free agents Saints were wise to avoid
There were a few big-name veteran free agents that the New Orleans Saints didn’t land but it was ultimately the right decision for the franchise.
The New Orleans Saints haven’t been all that productive this offseason, with their biggest signing being defensive end Chase Young. Aside from Young, New Orleans has largely focused on depth signings. Overall, it’s been quiet for the Saints, but the same can’t be said about the rest of the NFL.
Per usual, there has been a ton of money thrown around in free agency and several veterans moving on to new teams. It’s easy to look at some of the signings and wonder why New Orleans didn’t go after these players. Surely, some of these guys that were free agents would have improved the Saints roster. However, New Orleans was wise to avoid some other veterans.
Let’s take a look at three veterans the Saints were smart to not sign.
3. Saints were wise to avoid tackle Tyron Smith
Left tackle is one of the biggest needs for New Orleans and they could’ve addressed that need with Tyron Smith. The veteran tackle was released by the Dallas Cowboys this offseason after 13 seasons. In those 13 years, Smith went to eight Pro Bowls, establishing himself as one of the best tackles of the last decade.
However, Smith is now 33 years old and has struggled with injury the past few years. Additionally, because of his status, Smith would cost the Saints a nice contract. Meanwhile, the 2024 NFL Draft has one of the deepest tackle classes in recent memory. Ultimately, New Orleans didn’t go after Tyron Smith, watching him sign with the New York Jets, and the Saints will likely take a tackle in the first round.