The Uneasy Big Easy

Why New Orleans Must Ink Bresus to a Long-Term Deal

It is a matter of numbers.  The New Orleans Saints, as much as any team, simply have to find a solution to lock up their quarterback to a long term contract.  The response quickly comes that it is no big deal.  The Saints, it is said, can simply franchise Brees.  If only it were that simple.  The Saints can't afford to use the franchise tag on Brees because they need it to be available to take care of at least one of their other free agents.,

Pro Football Weekly recently released their list of the top-100 free agents.  While the list has its flaws, it is important both for its comprehensive nature, and for the general contours it outlines of the market.  The Saints, according to the list, have to navigate an ocean that includes 4 of the top-50 free agents, and 3 of the top-25.

Pro Football Weekly Top-100

There is tremendous consternation on the bayou with the inaction the Saints seem to have shown thus far. Questioned outside of a Jimmy John's this past week, Drew did his best to put a brave face on the situation.  The news media is less convinced.

Drew Claims Confidence

Going into the free agency process, the Saints would seem to be in a decent spot. 2012 Salary Cap  When the volume of players who need to be paid is considered, it looks less promising.  The Saints already have one of the highest paid interior linemen in the NFL (Evans @ Right Guard).  Paying Nicks as well would be quite an investment in non-Tackle offensive linemen.  The proposed justification is that Drew gets the ball out of his hands so quickly there is no need for great Tackles.  It is hard to argue with the most prolific passing offense ever.

But that gets to the question of Colston.  Even if the Saints pay Drew, and franchise Nicks, a strong possibility exists that Marques finds himself in a different locale next season.  For a player of his consistency, ( 5 1,000 yd seasons in 6 years) that might be a tough pill for the offense to swallow.  Parlay that with the likely departure of Robert Meachem, and the importance of the draft increases.  Unfortunately for 'Nawlins, they don't have a 1st round pick this year.  We all should wish their front office luck.