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2016 NFL offseason: New Orleans Saints’ needs

By Charles Rahrig V

Sep 13, 2015; Glendale, AZ, USA; New Orleans Saints quarterback Drew Brees (9) against the Arizona Cardinals at University of Phoenix Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 13, 2015; Glendale, AZ, USA; New Orleans Saints quarterback Drew Brees (9) against the Arizona Cardinals at University of Phoenix Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports /
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Dec 21, 2015; New Orleans, LA, USA; New Orleans Saints tight end Benjamin Watson (82) scores a touchdown on a one-yard catch while defended by Detroit Lions strong safety Isa Abdul-Quddus (42) in the fourth quarter of the game at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome. Mandatory Credit: Chuck Cook-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 21, 2015; New Orleans, LA, USA; New Orleans Saints tight end Benjamin Watson (82) scores a touchdown on a one-yard catch while defended by Detroit Lions strong safety Isa Abdul-Quddus (42) in the fourth quarter of the game at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome. Mandatory Credit: Chuck Cook-USA TODAY Sports /

Free Agents Leaving

The Saints wasted no times with February cuts, including six-time Pro Bowl guard Jahri Evans. While the Saints have plenty of free agents, the big ones that stand out are tight end Ben Watson and backup quarterback Luke McCown.

When the Saints traded Jimmy Graham, many wondered if it would affect the team’s passing game and Drew Brees. Instead, Watson fully assumed the role and was a reliable target for Brees all season and really re-established his value as a tight end in the league.

The problem with Watson is that he is 35 years old. He’s getting up there in age and the Saints have to factor in just how much longer he is going to be playing in this league. They have Josh Hill, but he is a restricted free agent and will be in need of a new contract as well.

While they have guys that can fill the void of Graham, they need to get younger at the spot and add more depth to the position going forward. As for Luke McCown, he was a reliable backup for Brees last season. Brees is getting older and having a guy that can step in if he misses time is very important for the Saints.

There’s going to be teams that want a reliable backup quarterback like McCown on their roster. The Saints are going to have to decide whether they want to pay McCown or let a young quarterback take the next step and assume the backup quarterback role.

Next: Free Agents to Target

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