Jan 30, 2013; New Orleans, LA, USA; EDITORS NOTE: multiple exposure. A general view of the downtown New Orleans and the Mercedes-Benz Superdome. Super Bowl XLVII will be played between the San Francisco 49ers and the Baltimore Ravens on February 3, 2013 at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome. Mandatory Credit: Derick E. Hingle-USA TODAY Sports

It is the NFL offseason, which means players are out doing their own thing before gearing up for minicamps and OTA’s and really ramping up their preparation for the next season. One NFL player’s hobby has really caught our attention, and that is New Orleans Saints star tight end Jimmy Graham who has apparently added “Pilot” to his resume.

Graham posted a photo online that shows him flying a plane about the Mercedes-Benz Superdome and it is an incredible view of the city and a one of a kind photograph.

Here is the incredible photo from the New Orleans Saints Instagram account, that was initially posted on Jimmy Graham’s official Twitter account @TheJimmyGraham:

Photo via New Orleans Saints on Instagram (@neworleanssaints)

The caption read:

How cool is this? Jimmy Graham flying a plane over the Mercedes-Benz Superdome

Pretty cool, indeed.

It’s not every day that you get a photo fro this vantage point and especially not one with a star NFL player flying the plane. There is one thing that sticks out, though, Jimmy Graham looks incredibly uncomfortable being jammed in that cockpit.

You would think he could afford some customization with that NFL salary. After all, he did have enough money to buy his own plane.

Apr 25, 2013; New York, NY, USA; Kenny Vaccaro (Texas) is introduced as the number fifteen overall pick to the New Orleans Saints during the 2013 NFL Draft at Radio City Music Hall. Mandatory Credit: Jerry Lai-USA TODAY Sports

With NFL teams around the league working hard to get their rookie class under contract with rookie minicamps coming up, a number of teams have signed a bulk of their 2013 NFL Draft classes. The latest team to announce a number of signings is the New Orleans Saints, who signed first-round pick Kenny Vaccaro. With the deal, Vaccaro becomes the first first-round draft pick to ink a contract.

Along with Vaccaro, the Saints were able to agree to deals with three other members of the rookie class.

The other signees include: Arkansas Pine-Bluff offensive tackle Terron Armstead (second-round), Oklahoma wide receiver Kenny Stills (fifth-round) and Tarlton State linebacker Rufus Johnson (sixth-round).

That leaves third-round defensive tackle John Jenkins out of Georgia as the lone unsigned draft pick.

Vaccaro will provide an immediate boost to the Saints secondary and it was crucial to get him under contract and in camp. His speed and versatility is going to be very welcomed in the defensive backfield. It would not be a surprise to see Vaccaro beat out veteran Roman Harper as the starting safety across from Malcolm Jenkins.

Oct 6, 2012; Chapel Hill, NC, USA; Virginia Tech Hokies running back J.C. Coleman (4) is tackled by North Carolina Tar Heels linebacker Kevin Reddick (48) in the second quarter at Kenan Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Bob Donnan-USA TODAY Sports

The 2013 NFL Draft is complete, but that does not mean a number of talented players are still available to be had. Every year, the players who were not selected in the draft will still have an opportunity to contribute and make a NFL roster thanks to the undrafted free agency process.

There have been stars all around the league that emerge from the undrafted free agent ranks and this year will be no different.

Who did the New Orleans Saints bring in as an undrafted free agent? Here is the list (alphabetical order by last name):

• Shawne Alston, RB, West Virginia
• Ryan Gaines, QB, Tulane
• Ryan Griffin, QB, Tulane
• Josh Hill, TE, Idaho State
• Ryan Lacy, CB, Utah
• Tim Lelito, G, Grand Valley State
• Eric Martin, DE, Nebraska
• Elliott Mealer, OL, Michigan
• Keavon Milton, TE, Louisiana-Monroe
• Kevin Reddick, MLB, North Carolina
• Ray Shipman, LB, Central Florida
• Rod Sweeting, CB, Georgia Tech
• Chase Thomas, OLB, Stanford

All of the players will have an uphill battle if they hope to make the Saints roster, but you can never count these motivated players out. Remember, current NFL starters like Arian Foster, Tony Romo and Wes Welker have all emerged from the UDFA ranks.

NOTE: Lists of undrafted free agents have been put together by gathering info from multiple media sources around the Internet, including NEPatriotsDraft.com.

US PRESSWIRE

The 2013 NFL Draft has come and gone, and now it’s time for some reflection. While some teams traded around to get who they want, others stood pat to see who would slide to them — and if there’s one thing to remember about this draft it’s players that slid around the rounds. But now that the draft is behind us, the all important grading phase has begun, so lets take a look at how the New Orleans Saints did in this year’s NFL Draft.

Draft Picks

• (15) Kenny Vaccaro, db, Texas
• (75) Terron Armstead, ot, Arkansas-Pine Bluff
• (82) John Jenkins, nt, Georgia
• (144) Kenny Stills, wr, Oklahoma
• (183) Rufus Johnson, lb, Tarleton State.

Best Pick: Terron Armstead, OT/Arkansas-Pine Bluff

When the Saints lost Carl Nicks last offseason, we started to see cracks in a usually stout offensive line. Armstead is one of the best tackle prospects in the draft and should be able to provide Drew Brees with some serious protection moving forward.

Worst Pick: Rufus Johnson, LB/Tarleton State

Again, this doesn’t mean Johnson is the worst pick ever he just sticks out in this class. He could develop into a solid linebacker, but the Saints needed to look at one earlier and refused to do so.

Analysis: Overall this is a solid draft for the Saints. They did what they could with what little they had and it could all turn out well. Vaccaro is just what Rob Ryan was looking for, we’ve discussed Armstead and even a guy like Kenny Stills can be deadly with Drew Brees throwing to him. New Orleans didn’t have much to work with but they did a solid job.

2013 Draft Grade: B-

November 11, 2012; New Orleans, LA, USA; New Orleans Saints running back Chris Ivory (29) runs for a touchdown against the Atlanta Falcons during the first quarter of a game at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome. Mandatory Credit: Derick E. Hingle-USA TODAY Sports

There were rumors leading in to the 2013 NFL Draft that the New York Jets were attempting to land New Orleans Saints running back Chris Ivory, and they managed to do just that on day two of the draft.

After some questionable draft choices earlier, the team redeemed themselves by completing the trade and bringing in a solid downhill runner.

From Jason La Canfora:

Jets traded their 4th round pick to Saints RB Chris Ivory. Like that move.

— Jason La Canfora (@JasonLaCanfora) April 27, 2013

This could be the smartest move the Jets made with a draft choice all draft long.

Ivory will be a great back to pair with Mike Goodson and he is an immediate upgrade over Shonn Greene, who went to the Tennessee Titans in free agency.

The draft is always a treat for NFL fans, so be sure that you tune in and see who the newest players to rock your favorite teams uniforms will be, and stay tuned to FanSided.com throughout the draft for the latest news, rumors and analysis of every pick.

Apr 25, 2013; New York, NY, USA; Kenny Vaccaro (Texas) is introduced as the number fifteen overall pick to the New Orleans Saints during the 2013 NFL Draft at Radio City Music Hall. Mandatory Credit: Jerry Lai-USA TODAY Sports

The New Orleans Saints drafted Texas Safety Kenny Vaccaro with the fifteenth pick in the 2013 NFL Draft.

The Saints needed help on the defensive side of the ball, especially at safety.

Coming from the University of Texas that is known for producing NFL safeties, Vaccaro is the best safety in this year’s draft.

Vaccaro fits well in the Saints’ new system and covers the deep ball well. He will be a great fit playing next to Malcolm Jenkins.

Draft Grade: B+

Feb 26, 2013; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Texas Longhorns defensive back Kenny Vaccaro runs with the ball after catching a pass during the NFL Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brian Spurlock-USA TODAY Sports

The New Orleans Saints didn’t emerge from the shadow of bounty-gate with a whole lot of things to brag about. The team started the season win-less, showed cracks all over the place and made it apparent that they needed to upgrade on defense in order to get better and return to the glory days of recent years.

But while they needed some help, it was still unknown who exactly they’d end up going with. There was the possibility of going linebacker but drafting a safety was something the Saints could look at as well. The cornerback situation wasn’t the best in recent years either, even before the bounty-gate scandal rocked the bayou and before Sean Payton was suspended by the NFL.

So it was clear that the Saints needed to fill holes but didn’t know who exactly to take.

It was obvious that New Orleans needed to go defense, not only to fill holes but because of the division they play in. The Carolina Panthers may not be the best but they have explosive qualities to their offense, and the same goes for the Doug Martin helmed Buccaneers unit. Atlanta is and will be the offensive force in the NFC South until the Saints usurp them, so taking defense and boosting that unit was a need even if things had been in tip-top shape.

But the pick ended up being Texas safety Kenny Vaccaro who gives the Saints a devastating weapon in their secondary.

Kenny Vaccaro not only comes in and is able to be a great pass defender, but he matches the Buccaneers drafting Mark Barron last season and can be a hard hitting leader moving forward.

The NFL Draft is just getting started, so be sure to stay tuned to FanSided all weekend long to get the most up to date info on everything that happens at Radio City Music Hall. 

Oct 20, 2012; College Station, TX, USA; LSU Tigers defensive end Barkevious Mingo (49) rushes the passer against the Texas A

This selection was made by Josh Hill of FanSided.com

New Orleans Saints Select Barkevious Mingo, OLB/LSU

The Saints are starting to realize that they’re not getting any younger, but do have a golden opportunity to dip themselves into the fountain of youth otherwise known as the NFL Draft and help shore up an aging defense. Mingo is familiar with the bayou from his days with LSU and he’s a versatile monster of a linebacker. He plays his heart out and is a sideline-to-sideline type of player. New Orleans still has the talent to win now, but the more they look to the future, the quicker the transition will be when guys start to retire and move on.

Here is how the draft currently stands:

1. Kansas City Chiefs — Eric Fisher, offensive tackle, Central Michigan
2. Jacksonville Jaguars — Dion Jordan, defensive end, Oregon
3. Oakland Raiders — Sharrif Floyd, defensive tackle, Florida
4. Philadelphia Eagles — Luke Joeckel, offensive tackle, Texas A&M
5. Detroit Lions — Ezekiel Ansah, defensive end, BYU
6. Cleveland Browns — Dee Milliner, cornerback, Alabama
7. Arizona Cardinals — Lane Johnson, offensive tackle, Oklahoma
8. Buffalo Bills —  Chance Warmack, guard, Alabama
9. New York Jets — Jarvis Jones, linebacker, Georgia
10. Tennessee Titans — Jonathan Cooper, guard, North Carolina
11. San Diego Chargers —  Star Lotulelei, defensive tackle, Utah
12. Miami Dolphins —  Xavier Rhodes, cornerback, Florida State
13. New York Jets (via Tampa Bay) — Tavon Austin, wide receiver, West Virginia
14. Carolina Panthers — Sheldon Richardson, defensive tackle, Missouri
15. New Orleans Saints — Barkevious Mingo, defensive end, LSU

November 11, 2012; New Orleans, LA, USA; A New Orleans Saints helmet on the field prior to kickoff of a game against the Atlanta Falcons at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome. Mandatory Credit: Derick E. Hingle-USA TODAY Sports

The 2013 NFL Draft kicks off tonight with the first-round live from Radio City Music Hall. Every team in the league is preparing to select who they think will be the next breakout stars in the league, but first they will have to use the picks in their arsenal to draft the players they want.

The New Orleans Saints have six picks to work with throughout the draft. Will they be able to use them to position the team to grab some of the draft’s top talent? It all begins tonight.

[RELATED: NFL Draft 2013: Start Times, Live Stream, TV Info, Draft Order and More]

Here is the current list of the Saints selections heading in to the 2013 NFL Draft:

• First-round: Pick 15
• Second-round: None
• Third-round: Pick 13
• Fourth-round: Pick 12
• Fifth-round: Pick 11
• Sixth-round: Pick 15
• Seventh-round: Pick 14

The draft is always a treat for NFL fans, so be sure that you tune in and see who the newest players to rock your favorite teams uniforms will be, and stay tuned to FanSided.com throughout the draft for the latest news, rumors and analysis of every pick.

November 26, 2011; Gainesville FL, USA; Florida State Seminoles defensive end Cornellius Carradine (91) defends Florida Gators quarterback Jacoby Brissett (17) during the second half at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium. Florida State Seminoles defeated the Florida Gators 21-7. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports

Pass rushers are dropping like flies in mock drafts leading up to the 2013 NFL Draft this Thursday, but that’s not stopping some teams from dragging late first-round names up their boards. According to CBS Sports Jason LaCanfora, the New Orleans Saints are “quite intrigued” by Florida State defensive end Tank Carradine and could end up selecting him 15th overall in the draft.

With many pass rushers dropping, Tank Carradine still generating buzz from recent workout. Saints seem quite intrigued among others

— Jason La Canfora (@JasonLaCanfora) April 22, 2013

The Saints have been looking at pass rushers all offseason long, and it’s looking like that’s what they’ll end up drafting when they go on the clock this Thursday. Jarvis Jones, Barkevious Mingo and others remain options for the Saints, as they have the ability to not only play defensive end but slide over to outside linebacker in Rob Ryan’s 3-4 scheme.

Carradine is a great story to follow, as an ACL tear at the end of the Seminoles season put his NFL future into doubt. But after an offseason of rehab, Carradine appears to be a first-round pick once again, which is nothing short of spectacular.

Now that his status as a top pick has been restored, the question is where he will fall and his outstanding workout recently only helps his chances of being a real possibility for the Saints at 15th overall.

November 5, 2012; New Orleans, LA, USA; New Orleans Saints running back Chris Ivory (29) runs against the Philadelphia Eagles during the second half of a game at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome. The Saints defeated the Easgles 28-13. Mandatory Credit: Derick E. Hingle-USA TODAY Sports

The New York Jets traded away cornerback Darrelle Revis to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers yesterday, but it looks like they could try to swing another deal before the start of the 2013 NFL Draft. Of course, this deal won’t have the kind of buzz that the Revis trade came with, but it could have a big impact on the team.

Reports are indicating that the Jets are looking to acquire New Orleans Saints running back Chris Ivory.

Per Rich Cimini of ESPN New York:

And now we begin the next #Jets trade watch: Saints RB Chris Ivory. Less dramatic that Revis. I suspect they’ll get him for a 5th rnd pick.

— Rich Cimini (@RichCimini) April 22, 2013

It would be an excellent move for the Jets and an upgrade over Shonn Greene. If the Jets could get Ivory for just a fifth-round pick, then it would be a no-brainer. 

Ivory could set the pace for the Jets as the early down back, while Mike Goodson, who was signed during free agency, could come in as the change of pace back. An Ivory – Goodson running back duo doesn’t stand out on paper, but it will certainly improve the team’s backfield.

Dec 9, 2012; Tampa FL, USA; An NFL logo is seen on the field after a game between the Philadelphia Eagles and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Raymond James Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Steve Mitchell-USA TODAY Sports

The NFL regular season is nearly five months from kickoff, but the 2013 schedule has been released and it’s always fun to talk about what team has the “most favorable” schedule, and what team doesn’t have a chance to win more than five games.

As with every sports schedule, there are games that people look forward to more than others, and this season will be no different.

Divisional ones aside, there are games that don’t come around often that have a lot of people talking, and rightfully so. There are also some games that don’t have a lot of hype, but should.

Here are ten games that every football fan needs to circle on their calendar, and, as the saying goes, get their popcorn ready for.

November 11, 2012; New Orleans, LA, USA; A New Orleans Saints helmet on the field prior to kickoff of a game against the Atlanta Falcons at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome. Mandatory Credit: Derick E. Hingle-USA TODAY Sports

The NFL released the 2013-14 regular season schedule on Thursday exclusively on NFL.com and the NFL Network. For NFL fans, seeing the schedule for the upcoming season is like an early Christmas that drums up excitement and allows you to plan out trips to nearby stadiums to watch your favorite teams in action. Before the schedule release, we already knew the home and away opponents for each team, but now we have an exact idea of when everyone will face off.

Without further introduction, here is the regular season schedule release that you have all been waiting for.

What does the New Orleans Saints schedule look like for this season? Here it is:

Home games in bold

What are the match ups that you are looking forward to the most? Will you be making the trip to any home or away games? Sound off in the comments section and share your thoughts.

Jan 24, 2013; New Orleans, LA, USA; New Orleans Hornets owner Tom Benson during a press conference to announce the rebranding of the team to the New Orleans Pelicans effective in the 2013-2014 NBA season at the New Orleans Arena. Mandatory Credit: Derick E. Hingle-USA TODAY Sports

New Orleans Saints owner Tom Benson has been part of the NFL committees for over twenty years, but he is now ready to give up his roles and some of the influence he has on the league.

In a report from Nakia Hogan of the New Orleans Times-Picayune, Benson is stepping down from roles with three of the league’s committees — the Finance Committee, Audit Committee and Compensation Committees. Benson was a big part of the league’s Finance Committee and ever served as chairman in three stints, but he’s ready to turn his focus elsewhere.

“After serving on many of these committees, specifically chairing the Finance Committee, I felt that now was the right time for a change,” Benson said, via the New Orleans Times-Picayune.

“We have many new projects here in New Orleans, not only with Benson Tower and Champion’s Square but also the New Orleans Pelicans, plus our Saints and so I want to dedicate my focus to these. I cherished my time working on the many league committees that I served and valued my time with the other owners I have worked with.”

Benson is committed to focusing on the re-branding of the New Orleans Hornets as they transition to the Pelicans, as well as focus on his local business efforts.

The 85-year-old was a big part of the league’s landscape for the past two decades, so he will be missed. However, sometimes it’s best to put your full attention into running your businesses and the Saints and Pelicans will only benefit from the extra attention.

August 11, 2011; Philadelphia, PA, USA; Philadelphia Eagles cornerback Nnamdi Asomugha (24) on the sidelines during a preseason game against the Baltimore Ravens at Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia. Mandatory Credit: Eric Hartline-USA TODAY Sports

Last week it looked like Nnamdi Asomugha was going to settle on either the San Francisco 49ers or New Orleans Saints relatively soon. A week later, not much has changed and the cornerback everyone wanted a few years ago is still on the depressed market. But despite teams like the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Minnesota Vikings needing cornerbacks and secondary help, Asomugha has definitively whittled his destinations for the 2013 season down to the Bay Area and the Bayou.

From Pro Football Talk:

But Asomugha continues to consider the 49ers and the Saints as a potential next destination, per a source with knowledge of the situation.  Other teams had expressed interest in Asomugha, but no other visits have been taken.

Both teams make sense, but the conventional favorite remains that Saints. New defensive coordinator Rob Ryan worked with Asomugha during their days in Oakland and Ryan has been pushing for a reunion in New Orleans since Asomugha hit the market. It shouldn’t come as a surprise since Ryan not only has a connection with Asomugha but he also has a fetish for cornerbacks.

However, the logical choice is San Francisco, as the Niners need a cornerback and are a lot closer to a Super Bowl than the Saints are at the moment. Asomugha has never played in a Super Bowl and his time is quickly running out. The Niners have boasted an impressive defense the last few years and it’s not hard to believe that Asomugha wants to be a part of that.

But it’s the depressed market for cornerbacks (and defensive players in general) that is holding up Asomugha’s signing. It’s not that the corner is holding out for more than the $4 million he’s expected to get, rather it gives him time to fully analyze his future and decide where he wants to go. In fact,this is probably the best for all parties involved, as unlike the last time he hit the market, Asomugha won’t rush the decision and sign with the highest bidder; this time he’s signing with the proper fit.

August 11, 2011; Philadelphia, PA, USA; Philadelphia Eagles cornerback Nnamdi Asomugha (24) comes off the field during a preseason game against the Baltimore Ravens at Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia. Mandatory Credit: Eric Hartline-USA TODAY Sports

Nnamdi Asomugha is still without a job just a few years after scoring a big money free agent contract with the Philadelphia Eagles. Asomugha was underwhelming during his time in Philadelphia and the team ultimately decided to give him his walking papers when they decided it was time to take the organization in a different direction.

Now, on the open market, Asomugha is looking for a new home and he has begun to line up visits with his potential suitors.

Per Matt Maiocco of CSNBayArea.com:

Free agent CB Nnamdi Asomugha is scheduled to visit the Saints tomorrow, according to a source.

— Matt Maiocco (@MaioccoCSN) March 17, 2013

Asomugha met with the San Francisco 49ers last week and he appears content to make the rounds before deciding on his new home. Asomugha still has a lot of talent and can give whoever signs him a boost in the secondary, as long as use him in a scheme that fits him unlike the Eagles.

Be sure to stay tuned to FanSided.com throughout the entire free agency period for up to date news, rumors and signings. Our Free Agency tracker will be your one stop shot for all free agency news.

Dec. 4, 2011; Glendale, AZ, USA; Dallas Cowboys linebacker (57) Victor Butler against the Arizona Cardinals at University of Phoenix Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports

The Pittsburgh Steelers hosted free agent outside linebacker Victor Butler on Friday, but the team was unable to lock him up and the Dallas Cowboys back up left the Steel City without a deal. Now that Butler is still looking for a new gig, he could be on the New Orleans Saints radar — a team that he has expressed interest in joining.

Butler’s connection to the Saints is an obvious one. His former defensive coordinator from Dallas is now running the show in New Orleans. If there is anyone who is familiar with Butler’s talents, it is Rob Ryan.

With the Cowboys, Butler was buried behind DeMarcus Ware and Anthony Spencer, but he has flashed a lot of talent when he was able to see the field.

That talent should be enough to interest teams in need of a 3-4 pass rusher.

Butler is still unemployed, but I wouldn’t expect that to be the case for much longer. At his age, with his skill and potential, someone is going to bring him in and there would be no better fit than the Saints.

Be sure to stay tuned to FanSided.com throughout the entire free agency period for up to date news, rumors and signings. Our Free Agency tracker will be your one stop shot for all free agency news.

The 2013 NFL Free Agency period began at 4:00 p.m. ET on Tuesday and the news was coming in at a rapid rate. With the high volume of news that came in when the new league year began, it is very possible that you could have missed one or more of your team’s signings and where the big free agents signed around the league.

Luckily for you, we have got you covered. What was the big news that surfaced on Wednesday morning through the night?

[RELATED: 2013 NFL Free Agency Tracker]

Here is a recap of the day three action on the market:

• The cornerback market was off to a slow start over the first 48 hours, but it finally picked up on day three of free agency. Sean Smith was signed by the Chiefs, with former Steelers corner Keenan Lewis deciding to sign with New Orleans. Philadelphia got in the mix with the signings of S Kenny Phillips and CB Cary Williams.
• Top free agent tackle Jake Long remains on a visit to St. Louis with no deal in place. It is hard to believe the two sides would spend three days together without finally coming to a deal. Long and his agent were once again out to dinner on Thursday night.
• Free agent running back Steven Jackson made the move that everyone had been expecting and signed with the Falcons.
• Longtime Packers wide receiver Greg Jennings is beings seriously pursued by the Vikings. We should have an answer on whether Jennings will sign with Minnesota soon.
• The Lions lost starting left tackle Jeff Backus, who decided to retire, which could mean the team will look to draft a tackle with their first round draft pick.
• Kansas City finally decided to release Matt Cassel, who wasn’t out of work for long. In a matter of hours, Cassel signed with the Vikings where he will compete for a starting job.
• Baltimore could be losing another key starter with the Houston Texans making a serious run at Ed Reed, who is expected to sign with the team tomorrow.
• A day after signing top pass rusher Cliff Avril, the Seahawks got DE Michael Bennett on a low-risk, high-reward deal.

Be sure to stay tuned to FanSided.com throughout the entire free agency period for up to date news, rumors and signings. Our Free Agency tracker will be your one stop shop for all free agency news.

Aug. 25, 2012; Orchard Park, NY, USA; Pittsburgh Steelers defensive back Keenan Lewis (23) before a game against the Buffalo Bills at Ralph Wilson Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Timothy T. Ludwig-USA TODAY Sports

With the free agent cornerback market starting to pick up, the New Orleans Saints were prepared to get in the mix. Former Pittsburgh Steelers cornerback Keenan Lewis was visiting the team earlier in the day and contract talks got more serious as time progressed. Eventually, Lewis took to his Facebook page to announce he signed with New Orleans and now the news has been confirmed.

According to Sean Jensen of the Chicago Sun-Times:

CB Keenan Lewis will sign a five-year, $26 million, including $11 million guaranteed, with the Saints, a source says.

— Sean Jensen (@seankjensen) March 14, 2013

Lewis was one of the more under-the-radar cornerbacks on the market and he should find success in Rob Ryan’s scheme. Lewis is a well-rounded corner that can play both zone and man coverage. The Saints defense will benefit from this latest addition.

Be sure to stay tuned to FanSided.com throughout the entire free agency period for up to date news, rumors and signings. Our Free Agency tracker will be your one stop shot for all free agency news.

November 18, 2012; Pittsburgh , PA, USA; Pittsburgh Steelers cornerback Keenan Lewis (23) celebrates a tackle against the Baltimore Ravens during the first half of the game at Heinz Field. Mandatory Credit: Jason Bridge-USA TODAY Sports

After a slow first 48 hours, the free agent market for cornerbacks is beginning to heat up. With the development, the New Orleans Saints have ramped up their efforts in hopes of securing former Pittsburgh Steelers defensive back Keenan Lewis.

By all indications, Lewis to the Saints is the next cornerback deal that will go down.

Per ESPN’s Adam Schefter:

Next CB deal likely done is in New Orleans. Saints are close to deal with Steelers free-agent CB Keenan Lewis that could be done today.

— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) March 14, 2013

With Sean Smith, Derek Cox and many of the free agent cornerbacks beginning to fly off the market, the Saints need to move fast in order to lock up their target. Lewis is a young, very capable cornerback that could flourish in Rex Ryan’s scheme. Lewis is effective as both a zone and man corner, though zone coverage is his clear strength.

Be sure to stay tuned to FanSided.com throughout the entire free agency period for up to date news, rumors and signings. Our Free Agency tracker will be your one stop shot for all free agency news.

Mandatory Credit: Derick E. Hingle-USA TODAY Sports

The Chicago Bears have found their left tackle of the future and it’s not Jake Long. According to Sean Jensen of the Chicago Sun-Times, the Bears have agreed to a five-year deal with Bushrod that will make him a fixture on their weak offensive line.

#Bears agree to terms on a 5-year deal with Jermon Bushrod, according to league sources. More to come… bit.ly/X4rKQo

— Sean Jensen (@seankjensen) March 12, 2013

Source: #Bears and reps for #Saints LT Jermon Bushrod are finishing up a long-term deal. #JayCutlersmiles

— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) March 12, 2013

The Bears offensive line last year was absolutely atrocious and everyone from the local Chicago media to Jay Cutler were vocal about pointing it out as a weakness. Bushrod is far from being an elite left tackle, but he’s better than most int he NFL and he came a a significantly cheaper price than Jake Long would have, who is still trying to be the highest paid tackle in the NFL.

One of the factors for Bushrod leaving for Chicago is the fact that Aaron Kromer is the new offensive coordinator. The Saints wanted to re-sign Bushrod but were ultimately unable to do so and they have now lost two key pieces of their offensive line in two consecutive offseasons (they lost Carl Nicks to the Buccaneers last season).

Bushrod is a solid signing for the Bears though, and the next thing for Bears fans to watch is what his signing means for the future of J’Marcus Webb on that Chicago front line.

Mandatory Credit: Brace Hemmelgarn-USA TODAY Sports

15. Justin Smith – DE
Old Team: Cincinnati Bengals
New Team: San Francisco 49ers

Smith was a monster with the Cincinnati Bengals so it came as no surprise that he was successful in San Francisco. But while he was successful with the Bengals, he broke out with the Niners, being named to four All-Pro teams and becoming a key force in the 49ers dominant defense. The Niners are stout all over the place on defense, but Smith is the lifeblood ant the team isn’t the same without him on the field. Smith is a classic case of a guy who was good before, but didn’t become amazing until he found his footing with a new team.

14. Kevin Mawae  - C
Old Team: Seattle Seahawks
New Team: New York Jets

Mawae spent some good years with the Seattle Seahawks before signing a free agent deal with the NEw York Jets in 1998. From here, Mawae became on of the best centers to have ever played the game and solidified his argument as a future Hall of Famer. During his time with the Jets, Mawae paved the way for Hall of Fame running back Curtis Martin on his way to 8 Pro Bowls and 8 All-Pro teams. Had it not been for a triceps injury in 2005, Mawae’s streak of 177 consecutive starts at center likely could have reached the 200 level but regardless, his signing remains one of the best to have ever occurred in the modern free agency period.

US PRESSWIRE

13. Priest Holmes - RB
Old Team: Baltimore Ravens
New Team: Kansas City Chiefs

In 1998, Priest Holmes rushed for over 1,000 yards and even rushed for 200-yards in a single game. This looked to be the peak of Holmes career as he was ousted by rookie running back Jamal Lewis in 2000 and let go by the Ravens following their win in Super Bowl XXXV. But little did we know at the time that Holmes was about to embody everything teams hope for when signing a player in free agency. His contract with the Kansas City Chiefs was inexpensive but Holmes quickly became invaluable, becoming the first undrafted running back to rush for over 1,000 yards and leading the NFL in rushing in 2001. From there, Holmes rushed for over 1,600 yards in 2002, broke the single season touchdown record in 2003 and helped elevate the lowly Chiefs to a playoff caliber contender.

12. Jake Delhomme – QB
Old Team: New Orleans Saints
New Team: Carolina Panthers

Our first quarterback to crack the list made his career thanks to free agency. After spending some interesting years in New Orleans, Jake Delhomme floated over to the Carolina Panthers in 2003 and his life changed forever. With the Saints, Delhomme was at best a third string quarterback behind Aaron Brooks and Jeff Blake. But once he came to Carolina and John Fox got a hold of him, Delhomme turned into a Super Bowl quarterback, leading the Panthers to a showdown with the Patriots in Super Bowl XXXVIII in his very first season as a starter. After the Super Bowl, his career fizzled but Delhomme helped turn the Panthers around, leading them to the NFC Championship GAme in 2005 and becoming the first quarterback in franchise history be named the starting quarterback for three consecutive seasons.

11. Simeon Rice – DE
Old Team: Arizona Cardinals
New Team: Tampa Bay Buccaneers 

Simeon Rice made a name for himself with the Arizona Cardinals but he took not only himself but his new team to the next level when he signed as a free agent with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in 2001. After winning Rookie of the Year with the Cardinals in 1996 and helping them get to the playoffs in 1998, Rice signed with the Buccaneers and instantly became an anchor on one of the best defenses in NFL history. Rice’s best season came in 2002 when he helped lead the Buccaneers though the playoffs and to the franchise’s first ever Super Bowl, narrowly missing out on being named Super Bowl MVP. In his six season with the Bucs he recorded 69.5 sacks and remains a fan favorite amongst Bucs fans. 

Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-USPRESSWIRE

He James Harrison Wants to Play For Your Team tour continues, as Harrison’s pimp agent Bill Parise isn’t being shy about throwing his clients name against every wall in the NFL to drum up interest. Over the weekend, Parise came out and said that Harrison “would love” to play for the Browns and Patriots and it appears that the Ravens and Saints have been added to the list.

Basically, if you’re teams plays a sport where bashing skulls is part of the rules, Bill Parise is going to tell you that James Harrison is a great fit for your club.

You can’t blame Parise for using this tactic, since he is Harrison’s agent. But this can all be interpreted in two different ways and both are drastically different from one another. The first is that Parise is trying to drum up as much interest as possible in an effort to drive the price up on Harrison. Logically, if you convince four teams that your client wants to play there, a bidding war may ensue.

But another, more depressing way to interpret this is that Harrison hit the open market this weekend and has had zero calls come his way. Things are so bad that Parise is doing proverbial push ups int he driveway to get teams to offer Harrison a contract.

The fact of the matter is, Harrison’s on the wrong side of 30 by roughly five years and teams aren’t interested in jumping at an aging linebacker even if he’s got Harrison’s talent. Someone will offer him a deal down the line, but it’s apparent that he’s not the hot commodity some would like him to be. Ad for how he’d fit in with New Orleans or Baltimore, that’s a different story.

Rob Ryan is moving the Saints into a 3-4 set next season, and while Harrison thrived under that system in Pittsburgh, Junior Galette is apparently the guy the Saints want to move to outside linebacker and he’s got something Harrison doesn’t: a three-year deal with the Saints.

The Ravens are already aging on defense and they want to turn things over, not keep them the same. Harrison fits the bone crunching style of defense the Ravens run, but he’s old and the Ravens are aiming to get much, much younger as a unit.

In two days we’ve heard that Harrison would love to play for four different teams, so in the next 72 hours, expect everyone from the Oakland Raiders to Australian Rule Football teams to be mentioned by Bill Parise when it comes to where James Harrison is dying to play in 2013.

January 1, 2012; New Orleans, LA, USA; New Orleans Saints offensive tackle Jermon Bushrod (74) against the Carolina Panthers during the second half of a game at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome. The Saints defeated the Panthers 45-17. Mandatory Credit: Derick E. Hingle-USA TODAY Sports

The New Orleans Saints will be entering the free agency period with a tight cap situation that will likely lead to the team losing Sedrick Ellis and a few of their own free agents on the market, but there are still some options for them despite their current situation.

New Orleans could be looking to address the offensive and defensive lines in free agency and add another key player in the secondary.

Here are the team’s 2013 free agents:

• Jermon Bushrod — Offensive Tackle — UFA
• Sedrick Ellis — Defensive Tackle — UFA
• Scott Shanle — Linebacker — UFA
• Devery Henderson — Wide Receiver — UFA
• Brian De La Puente — Center — RFA
• Chris Ivory — Running Back — RFA
• Jonathan Casillas — Linebacker — UFA
• Chase Daniel — Quarterback — UFA
• Courtney Roby — Wide Receiver — UFA
• William Robinson — Offensive Tackle — UFA
• Turk McBride — Defensive Tackle — UFA
• Elbert Mack — Cornerback — UFA
• Ramon Humber — Linebacker — RFA
• Junior Galette — Linebacker — RFA

Which players do the Saints need to focus on re-signing and which players will attract the most attention on the free agent market? Let us know your thoughts by sounding off in the comments section.

Be sure to stay tuned to FanSided.com as we build up to free agency and fill you in on your favorite team’s questions and needs.

January 1, 2012; New Orleans, LA, USA; New Orleans Saints offensive tackle Jermon Bushrod (74) against the Carolina Panthers during the second half of a game at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome. The Saints defeated the Panthers 45-17. Mandatory Credit: Derick E. Hingle-USA TODAY Sports

The New Orleans Saints have been relatively quiet in the NFL Free Agency rumor mill, but there is finally a bit of news surfacing about their plans once the new league year kicks off on March 12.

According to the Baton Rouge Advocate, left tackle Jermon Bushrod is the team’s top priority among their free agents.

The Saints are currently around $2.5 million over the salary cap, so a round of cuts and restructures will have to be made in the coming days so that the team can focus on the open market and work on bringing their left tackle back to town.

Unfortunately for the Saints, Bushrod is one of the top left tackles in free agency and that could result in him cashing in on a big deal.

If Bushrod gets a big money offer, New Orleans will be unable to match and they will have to watch their starting left tackle walk in free agency. That would be a less than ideal situation for a team that needs to protect Drew Brees.

So if New Orleans is serious about re-signing Bushrod, they will need to get aggressive and start clearing up the cap space immediately.