New Orleans Saints: Smartest 2019 offseason move?
The New Orleans Saints have had a quiet but productive 2019 offseason but which move to this point has been their smartest decision?
With OTAs officially underway, many teams seem to have a decent idea of what their 2019 season might be lacking. Other teams are already poised for huge years, such as the New Orleans Saints, who seemingly get a little closer to the Super Bowl each year. Coupled with having one of the most likable quarterbacks in the league, the Saints look like they’re set elsewhere on the roster
Looking at their 2019 offseason thus far, the Saints have made a few moves — but not a ton. For now, let’s focus on the positives. Of all the moves the Saints have made, which has been their smartest move this offseason?
If there’s one thing Mickey Loomis, Sean Payton and the organization has a handle on, it’s drafting. Two years ago, the contingent put together one of the team’s most successful draft classes in years. The same can be said about this year, too. The team didn’t have a first-round pick, but they were able to choose quality over quantity. They did orchestrate a trade with the Miami Dolphins for a late second-round pick, which was a smart move but not their smartest of the offseason.
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The team didn’t forget about their quarterback, though. This offseason, the team restructured Drew Brees’ contract to help save them money. For both parties, it seems like it’s going to be worth it as it freed up cap space for the team. For Brees, it ensures that he’ll still get paid and be able to hang it up in 2020 if he wants.
In free agency, the Saints let a few guys go while Max Unger retired. Their smartest move this offseason has been signing impact players at relatively cheap prices. The biggest example of this is signing tight end Jared Cook to replace Benjamin Watson. Cook can immediately make an impact, yet doesn’t come with a huge contract or plan to become a superstar.
Another big free agent signing was Latavius Murray. Signed to replace the departed Mark Ingram, Murray won’t be the No. 1 ball carrier but is a good backup. While Murray isn’t as dominant as he once was, he’ll still have opportunities. The Saints topped it off by signing Malcolm Brown to bolster their defense and help alongside Sheldon Rankins.
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The Saints’ smartest moves this offseason have been in free agency. Once again, the team kept with their theme of quality over quantity. They’re a relatively young team so they need those veterans who can put in work and make plays. As long as those investments pay off, the New Orleans Saints could be headed to Miami in February.