NFL Rumors: New Orleans Saints shopping Darren Sproles, Pierre Thomas and Lance Moore
The NFL doesn’t see too many trades compared to the other big three professional sports, but according to ESPN’s Adam Schefter we could see as many as three offensive players leaving the New Orleans Saints this offseason.
Thomas started nine games in 2013 and rushed for more than 500 yards while totaling more than 500 receiving yards in the Saints prolific offense. The emergence of former first round pick Mark Ingram could lead the Saints to moving Thomas for a draft pick to add some youth to the roster.
Moore had 1,041 receiving yards and six touchdowns in 2012, but saw his totals drop to 457 and two in 2013. He has been a steady third or fourth option for Drew Brees in the passing game since his breakout season in 2008, but at 30 could see the arrow on his career pointing downward now.
Sproles has seen his yards from scrimmage drop in two consecutive seasons since he had 1,313 and nine touchdowns in 2011, his first season in New Orleans after beginning his career with the San Diego Chargers. At 30, his best football may be behind him as the Saints explore the market for the versatile offensive weapon.
Sproles likely would fetch the most in return, but that may only be a fourth round pick at best. If the team is unable to trade any of these three they could elect to release them and free up money to sign Jimmy Graham to a long-term deal.