But it was Mr. #9 himself who wanted to become the highest paid player in the league history, so he can't have the cake and eat it too.

And I'm not sold on the notion that Bushrod's replacement should necessarily be an improvement over him, an equally or a slightly less talented guy would be totally acceptable if it means that they can save a couple of million dollars per year in the cap. They already have a lot invested in the interior of that line - meaning of course the guards - and that is where they should continue to invest the money because it is the most important part of that O-line when we're considering Brees' playing style of rather stepping up on the pocket than sidestepping away from pressure.

I hear ya - our interior lineman are set. So that leaves the OT's that need to be upgraded. Bushrod already knows the system, and like I said, Brees is comfortable w him protecting his blind side. Saints probably won't make a change unless Bushrod asks for too much. Right OT really needs to be upgraded though.