He could get a long-term contract or whatever next year, couldn't he? By tagging Brees, they free up some cap space for F/A negotiations and to maybe get some help on the defense.

How livid could he be if the Saints are making a run at the SuperBowl next season?

He could, but if he's a man of his word, he won't sign the tag tender and, therefore, he'll sit out the next season if they can't work out a long term deal this off-season.

I doubt that in that scenario the Saints and Brees would be trying to work out a long term contract after the fact, and I don't know what sitting out an entire season would do to Brees' market value.

yeah, but by sitting out, he just hurts himself as well ... what's he got? Until June/July to sign that thing ... everyone will come around by then.

Whoa whoa whoa hold up a second. This is the same Kaare Johnson who also had an "impeccable source" who said the Hornets sale was a "done deal" to an out of town buyer, and it's been weeks since he "broke" that story and absolutely nothing has come of it. So...

I am also livid. Maybe Drew and I are soul-mates.

No, I guess not, because my fav Saint is still Archie, and when I say I will always love the Saints and want what's best for the team, I mean it.

You get no argument from me there, but he has stated that he won't play under the tag, so if the sides can't come to a long term decision by June 15th (I think) - he is forced to either stand by that proclamation or give into the Saints' decision. But, by giving into playing under the tag, he would in affect display that he can be strong-armed into agreeing to unfavorable terms. This could be something that would hurt him further down the line during his next contract negotiations - whomever they would be with.

I still hope and believe that Brees and the Saints will be able to come to terms on a long term contract before the tender deadline - one which will be lower than the $23-24M for the initial years that has been suggested to be what Brees' side is asking for.

... I see what you mean, I didn't realize he had said he wouldn't play under the franchise tag ...

I think he said that, at least I think I read about it somewhere... :confused:

Who knows anymore what is what... so many threads in so few hours... http://smileys.on-my-web.com/reposit...sed/stupid.gif

Brees and the Saints have until July 15 to hammer out a long-term deal. Ok then July 15 you'll have a deal.

Drew your words ring HOLO. What about the team and keeping it together. Your not going to sit out.

I too want to hear & see Drew saying he is livid.