With Kenny Vaccaro basically out the door, the New Orleans Saints have a few options to fill the hole left by the safety while still saving money.
In 2017, the New Orleans Saints had one of the most improved defensive units. They utilized seasoned veterans while also taking a risk on young players and free agents. One of their biggest standouts was Kenny Vaccaro.
Vaccaro has spent the two seasons with the Saints. In those two years, he made a tremendous impact but was bogged down in 2016. In 2017, he had a slight dip in production, but was still one of their best defensive players. It looked like Vaccaro could be a key piece for the defense if he chose to stay with the team entering free agency.
Unfortunately for the Saints, Vaccaro is looking to take his talents elsewhere, as he has no plans to re-sign in New Orleans. It’s a huge loss for the Saints and finding a replacement will be hard. Looking ahead to the 2018 season, here are a few options the Saints have when it comes to Vaccaro.
It’s unlikely, but the Saints could look at cutting a deal with him. The Saints have a reasonable amount of cap space and Vaccaro deserves a paycheck. He’s been one of their best defensive players in those two seasons including multiple interceptions and sacks.
Of all the options, signing him is unlikely. Vaccaro either feels he’s not being appreciated or that he can find more success elsewhere. Filling the void could happen in free agency as the Saints could try to sign someone for cheap.
Looking at the free agency market, there aren’t a lot of options. The Saints could pursue Marcus Gilchrist and, at age 29, Gilchrist is a little older than Vaccaro. He had an incredibly productive season last year including an interception, a sack and 56 combined tackles. He’s lacking in stats compared to Vaccaro, but would be a cheaper option.
Drafting is unlikely as well. The Saints have bigger needs and positions they need to develop rather than safety. The last and most realistic option would be sticking with the current safeties they have. With Vaccaro now gone, they will have to rely on Marcus Williams and Vonn Bell.
While the two don’t have the age Vaccaro does, they had good seasons despite the mistake in Minnesota by Williams. In year two, Williams will have a chance to step up and sharpen his skills. As for Bell, going into his third year, he has proven himself as reliable and will likely take the place of Vaccaro.
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Yes, losing Vaccaro will be a blow but the Saints can pick up the slack. Free agency might happen but is unlikely. As long as Williams and Bell continue to improve, there’s no reason to freak out just yet.