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Saints Team Report
Jeff Duncan /

In recent years, the Saints have been one of the most active organizations in free agency. That will change this spring. Look for the club to reduce the turnover on the roster and target only several veterans at areas of need: cornerback, defensive tackle and backup running back. At corner, the team most likely will concentrate on a second-tier player and save money for a top cover man in the draft.

TE Boo Williams has earned the right to start after this season. He is difficult for linebackers to cover in space and has become comfortable in the offense. Some think he can produce Pro Bowl numbers if he is a full-time starter. That means veteran Ernie Conwell might have to assume a reduced role, and he should have no problem with that. Conwell no longer is the receiving threat he was during his prime, but he remains a reliable leader.

Fred McAfee is expected to retire, ending a stellar 12-year career as a special teams ace. McAfee still is an effective player and an asset in the locker room, but his roster spot is too valuable to allocate strictly to a special teamer. He could be asked back as a special teams assistant coach.

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C Jerry Fontenot would like to return if the club wants him back. The 15-year veteran enjoyed a solid season and remains an offensive leader. However, the Saints have invested draft picks on Gs LeCharles Bentley and Montrae Holland and recently signed G Kendyl Jacox to a three-year extension. Bentley is the most likely candidate to take over at center. Fontenot could fill a reserve role, but he may be unwilling to do so after starting for most of his career.