Saints report: Strategy and personnel
 

Feb. 23, 2004

Notes, quotes, anecdotes

While they said early in the offseason that they don't want to make as many changes to their roster as they have in the past two years, the Saints will likely have a lot of salary-cap room when veteran free agency begins next week.
Depending on what happens with defensive end Darren Howard, their top priority among the unrestricted free agents on their roster at the end of the 2003 season, the Saints may have more than $20 million to spend on free agents and draft picks.

That could go a long way to strengthening a defense that improved dramatically last season as it cut down on the number of points and big plays allowed after a dreadful 2002 campaign. The shopping list may also include a cornerback or two, a linebacker that can roam the field and make plays and possibly a defensive tackle.

PLAYERS TO WATCH
In addition to defensive end Darren Howard, another priority for the Saints among the 13 unrestricted free agents on their roster is cornerback Fred Thomas. The eight-year veteran is regarded as a top cover corner by the coaches and is a valuable asset in the locker room.

FEELING A DRAFT
The Saints will have the 18th pick in the first round as well as two second-rounders in the April 24-25 draft.

With their top priorities expected to be cornerback and linebacker, depending on what they do in free agency, it might not be shocking to see them use their first three selections for defensive help. Defensive tackle may be another consideration as well as wide receiver...



http://www.sportsline.com/nfl/teams/report/NO/7111511

[Edited on 2/23/2004 by iceshack149]