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First quarterback Drew Brees. Now coach Sean Payton.

The New Orleans Saints have lost the two most iconic figures in franchise history over the past 12 months. But they have made it clear they don’t intend to rebuild under coach Dennis Allen, despite some significant salary-cap hurdles. The Saints believe their roster is loaded with enough talent, especially on defense, to contend in a wide-open NFC South division that no longer includes future Hall of Fame quarterback Tom Brady.

The Saints finished 9-8, missing the playoffs for the first time in five years. But that was an admirable effort considering they had so many injuries and COVID-19 issues that they set an NFL record with 58 different starters used in a season -- including four quarterbacks after Jameis Winston tore the ACL in his left knee in Week 8. And that total didn’t even include receiver Michael Thomas or kicker Wil Lutz, both of whom missed the entire season with injuries.



If the Saints can make the right choice at quarterback and make it through the season just a little healthier, they should contend for the South title.

Projected salary-cap space: $74 million over the projected cap

Top free agents: QB Jameis Winston, LT Terron Armstead, S Marcus Williams, LB Kwon Alexander, DB P.J. Williams, WR Tre’Quan Smith, QB Trevor Siemian

Potential cut candidates: Believe it or not, the Saints don’t have to cut anybody to get under the cap. They can move more than $100 million in cap charges into future years through their typical method of bonus restructures. However, cornerback Bradley Roby is a candidate for release or pay cut since he is due $10 million and was only a part-time player in 2021. Also, Armstead and Alexander could be too expensive to keep in free agency.

The big question: Who will play quarterback? Winston is probably the front-runner since he proved to be a good fit in 2021 with 14 touchdown passes and three interceptions before he tore an ACL. However, there is no guarantee he’ll be back since he is an unsigned free agent and still rehabbing. The Saints could also consider a reunion with free agent Teddy Bridgewater, among other options.

However, don’t be shocked if the Saints aim for the top of the QB market with a potential trade for someone like Russell Wilson or Aaron Rodgers. They might not be able to make the best offer, since they don’t pick until 18th in the draft, but they will consider all options.

No matter who plays quarterback, though, the Saints’ second priority will be shoring up the receiving corps and offensive line.

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RailBoss

What will life after Sean Payton look like?
It will look like life with Dennis Allen and Company.
Same Adventure Park just a new ride which hopefully won't go off the rails.

Rugby Saint II

Hopefully, DA gives the Adventure Park a face lift for public appeal and then brings in a couple of new exciting thrilling rides. Just please no more roller coasters!

Edit: He's already brought in a couple of new operators to run the equipment and maintain it.

AsylumGuido

bobdog86

The seven emotional stages of grief are usually understood to be shock or disbelief, denial, bargaining, guilt, anger, depression, and acceptance/hope.

And there you go.

darksoul35

I still just want to curl up in a corner and puke.