Saints Rumors: Willie Snead attending workouts
By Nick Wright
New Orleans Saints receiver Willie Snead is attending the team’s offseason program despite being without a long-term deal.
Willie Snead attending workouts with the Saints is a great sign for the organization. New Orleans offered him a small contract earlier in the offseason in which he declined. As Snead is still looking for a new contract, the fact that he’s willing to come work provides some insight. It’s possible there have been recent talks in giving him a new contract with a higher offer. If Snead puts in the work early and with the rest of the team, he could receive a long-term contract in return.
The Saints have several needs they must address through the draft and in free agency. Wide receiver is certainly one of them, as Brandin Cooks is now a member of the Patriots. In the past two seasons with the Saints, Snead has hauled in 141 passes for nearly 1,900 yards. He’s proven to be a reliable and durable player.
Drew Brees is aging and surely doesn’t want to lose any more of his familiar weapons. He could have an impact on Snead showing up and possibly helping him land a new contract. It’s hard to blame Snead for turning down the initial offer — despite being a restricted free agent with limited leverage — to come in and prove his overall worth.
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Snead must be well-aware of the Saints’ need at the position, so he knows they will want to bring him back. New Orleans is trying to contend for its first NFC South title in some time, but has an uphill battle ahead with the Falcons, Buccaneers and Panthers all looking strong.