New Orleans Saints: 5 offseason needs

By John Buhler | Feb 28, 2017

Dec 18, 2016; Glendale, AZ, USA; New Orleans Saints running back Tim Hightower (34) celebrates with wide receiver Brandin Cooks (10) after scoring a touchdown against the Arizona Cardinals at University of Phoenix Stadium. The Saints defeated the Cardinals 48-41. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports /

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Dec 11, 2016; Tampa, FL, USA; New Orleans Saints offensive guard Jahri Evans (73) and quarterback Drew Brees (9) talk against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the first half at Raymond James Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports /

3. Get younger at guard

Jahri Evans is considered one of the 10 best players in Saints franchise history. He has been a staple at guard for New Orleans since the 2006 NFL season. Evans is a six-time Pro Bowler and a four-time All-Pro.

That being said, it is time for the Saints to get younger at guard. Evans may be a borderline Pro Football Hall of Famer, but he will be 34 years old next season. New Orleans has something really good at center in Max Unger. Why would Loomis not look to upgrade at guard this offseason?

New Orleans could theoretically be in the market to sign a top-tier guard like Kevin Zeitler of the Cincinnati Bengals or Ronald Leary of the Dallas Cowboys. However, they may prove to be too expensive at guard for Loomis’ liking. Keep in mind that overspending at position groups like guard is what put the Saints in a bad salary cap situation initially.

Drafting an offensive lineman isn’t a certainty any more, but it is an area that the Saints need to seriously look at this spring. A day two draft pick at guard seems like a sure thing for the Saints this offseason. It’ll be near impossible to replace Evans, but that is now reality.

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