New Orleans Saints: 3 Bargain targets available in 2019 NFL free agency

NEW ORLEANS, LA - DECEMBER 21: Head coach Sean Payton of the New Orleans Saints speaks with Drew Brees #9 during the fourth quarter of a game against the Detroit Lions at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome on December 21, 2015 in New Orleans, Louisiana. (Photo by Chris Graythen/Getty Images) /

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PHILADELPHIA, PA – SEPTEMBER 21: A Washington Redskins Nike cleat and helmet is seen on the field before the game against the Philadelphia Eagles at Lincoln Financial Field on September 21, 2014 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Rob Carr/Getty Images) /

3. G/T Austin Howard (Washington Redskins)

One of the better offensive lines in the league lost a vital piece this offseason when center Max Unger opted for retirement. It was a surprising move, but the New Orleans Saints would offset the departure with the signing of Nick Easton, late of the Minnesota Vikings.

But it should also be noted that the 26-year old pro did not play football in 2018 due to a neck injury and the subsequent surgery. In two seasons with the Purple Gang, he played in 23 games and made 17 starts, seeing action at the pivot and at the guard spots.

As far as the rest of the offensive front, the club has not re-signed either 34-year old performer Jermon Bushrod or Josh LeRibeus, a pair of reserves each pressed into starting duty this past year. There may indeed be a need for a little more depth on this unit at both tackle and guard.

Austin Howard has suited up for five different teams since 2010. A year ago, he was a member of the Washington Redskins, played in five games and made one start at right guard vs. the New York Giants in Week 14. The 6-7, 330-pound performer could be a very economical addition for Sean Payton’s squad.

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