New Orleans Saints: 3 Wide receiver additions to pair with Michael Thomas
Trade for Julian Edelman
This move is largely dependent on Tom Brady’s free agency decision, but it shouldn’t be out of the realm of possibility regardless of his landing spot. The New England Patriots are known to move on from their aging, veteran players before they lose value, so Julian Edelman could be on the trade block.
Edelman is going to be 34 years old by the start of the season and probably has only one year of solid production left. Nonetheless, he would provide the Saints a reliable slot presence that has been nonexistent for some time.
Edelman caught 100 passes for 1,117 yards and six touchdowns last year despite playing through injury for most of the season. His route running ability and shiftiness have forced opposing defenses to double-cover him out of the slot; with Michael Thomas playing on the outside, Edelman could easily get open over the middle of the field and provide a solid safety blanket for Drew Brees. He’s a versatile weapon that could excel in Sean Payton’s scheme.
Edelman only has two years and $8.5 million remaining on his contract, making this option a short-term solution for a team bereft of cap space. Yet, there aren’t many slot receivers playing at a higher level than Edelman; he could be an immediate boon to the Saints’ quick passing game and keep defenses on their heels.
Next. Every NFL team's most underrated offensive weapon. dark
Again, this option becomes less likely if Brady stays in Foxborough, but I wouldn’t be surprised if Bill Belichick is willing to move on from his former Super Bowl MVP regardless of Brady’s decision.
Potential trade (if Brady leaves): The Saints trade the 127th overall and 169th overall pick to the Patriots for Julian Edelman
Potential trade (if Brady stays): The Saints trade the 88th overall and 169th overall pick to the Patriots for Julian Edelman