The New Orleans Saints have been making strides to improve their salary cap in recent years, so they have much more money to spend this offseason. It couldn't be timed better as they attempt to surround what could be a franchise quarterback in Tyler Shough. Now, they have to be.
The Saints are one of several teams that is required to spend $50 million in contracts this year to meet the Collective Bargaining Agreement's minimum spending requirement through the years 2024-2026. EssentiallySports' Tony Pauline reported the news , and it could turn the Saints into aggressive players this offseason.
It being good timing for where the team is currently is just an added benefit. It could also be a strong motivator that works out for them. As we mentioned earlier, Shough was impressive as a rookie. Surrounding him with pieces should be priority number one, and this requirement could mean free agency will be a big part of how the Saints do that.
The Saints could make two splash signings in free agency
There was an expectation the Saints would try to land one big move this offseason, but this mandate could push them into two bigger moves. It could also result in many smaller moves, but we'll look at the first approach for today.
The obvious splash move for the Saints is at left guard. It's the biggest need on the team, and it's probably the only position that feels guaranteed to be addressed this offseason. It could happen in the draft or free agency, but it has to happen.
If New Orleans goes the big name free agent route, David Edwards is a name at the top of the list. He's had a solid career with the Rams and Bills. He's preparing to hit the market once again. One edge he has over some of the other proven commodities is Edwards is only 28 years old. Some of the other top guards in the class, like Joel Bitonio and Isaac Seumalo, are already in their 30's. Zion Johnson is young but also has some one hit wonder risk to him after excelling in a contract year.
It's hard to point to where the Saints could make another splash signing, if they did. At that point, it's more about the player than the position. The other biggest needs are wide receiver and edge rusher. Those feel a little too high for the Saints to invest.
Quay Walker is a name that should be on the Saints radar, especially if they lose Demario Davis. It would give the Saints another stud linebacker to lead their defense. Isaiah Likely is also a player who could benefit the Saints offense. The team struggled with run blocking and need a tight end more equipped for that. It isn't Juwan Johnson's area of expertise, but Likely does it well in addition to being a quality pass catcher.