All of the big fish have been pulled out of the pond at this stage of free agency
The team has taken economical decisions thus far that will ease the burden on their pay cap in the future. Willie Gay and Chase Young are two examples of signings that seem like guys who might prove to be valuable members of the club in the long run.
The Saints should keep searching for reliable, experienced free agents who are willing to sign for a low cost, given the numerous gaps in this team.
The team still has to acquire some skill and depth between now and the draft at positions like edge rusher, defensive tackle, receiver, offensive line, and safety.
As free agency approaches its slow point, we’ll highlight several decisions the Saints should make to help the team succeed this offseason in the draft and free agency.
Sign OL Andrus Peat
Resigning It would seem like Andrus Peat is the Saints’ most significant offseason acquisition. Peat is the essential component to keeping this offensive line upright in light of the uncertainty surrounding offensive tackle and possibly guard as well.
In the event that Trevor Penning or someone else in the draft is unavailable, the team has a reliable option at offensive tackle thanks to his great play at that position last season.
Get OL Dalton Risner signed.
For the team, this one makes perfect sense. As a previous top overall pick, Risner has a ton of starting guard experience having started 73 of 77 games in his career. He also has a ton of upside. If Risner does not immediately provide excellent depth on the offensive line, he can challenge at left guard. It also makes perfect sense for the organization since Risner was coached by Klint Kubiak while he was in Denver.He seems like a perfect fit for New Orleans.
WR Tyler Boyd should be signed.
I believe that Boyd is the ideal receiver for the Saints. a dependable #3 option that excels at passing the middle of the field and has the strength to block in the run game. Boyd has been the Bengals’ third option on a regular basis, so he wouldn’t be unfamiliar with the role in New Orleans. Even at 29 years old, Boyd did over 600 yards and 67 catches last season, demonstrating that he is not slowing down.
OL Taliese Fuaga, draft
Although this choice may appear to pack the offensive line room, the squad can no longer afford to be in a state of panic. By selecting Fuaga in the first round, you should have a reliable offensive tackle in year one. Even if Trevor Penning doesn’t work out, the team still needs another tackle in the pipeline because Ramczyk may retire shortly. Fuaga would probably guarantee a berth at tackle in the future.
Draft S Tyler Nubin
Nubin didn’t amaze everyone with his combine numbers, but if you watch his tape, he will exactly accomplish that. I keep getting Marcus Williams vibes from Nubin’s ability to read, diagnose, and actually dive into PBUs and interceptions.
The Saints desperately need a young player to replace Jordan Howden at the safety position. Adding Nubin to this defense in the second round of the NFL Draft would bring in that youthful infusion from the outset.