New Orleans Saints: five defensive free agents to watch
 

Defensive lineman Ricky Jean-Francois, San Francisco

Francois has proven capable of playing the nose tackle or defensive end position in a 3-4 scheme. Francois, a former LSU player, has just 49 career tackles and three sacks, but last season he had 22 tackles and two sacks. The 6-3, 295-pound Francois is versatile and graded out positively against the run. He really showed his worth when filling in for injured defensive end Justin Smith in the regular season.

Why the Saints should sign him: With the uncertain future of defensive end Will Smith, the Saints could have a major need for a defensive lineman. Francois could be a starting end and a backup nose tackle.

What could keep the Saints from signing him: If Smith is re-signed and the Saints decide to stand pat at their defensive line positions there won't be a need for Francois.

Linebacker Victor Butler, Dallas

Butler flashed glimpses that he may be ready to step out of the shadows of Cowboys outside linebackers DeMarcus Ware and Anthony Spencer. In four seasons playing behind the two, Butler compiled 11 sacks despite making just two starts. He had three sacks last season. The 25-year-old Butler will be courted by teams seeking an edge rusher to play in a 3-4 scheme.

Why the Saints should sign him: Butler is familiar with the defensive scheme of new Saints defensive coordinator Rob Ryan and could flourish if given an opportunity to play more.

What could keep the Saints from signing him: If the Saints can land a more proven and dynamic play-making pass rusher they could decide to pass on Butler.

Read more: New Orleans Saints: five defensive free agents to watch | NOLA.com

These two are the two logical and realistic ones.

Re: New Orleans Saints: five defensive free agents to watch
 

James Harrison was released by the Pittsburg Steelers. I think that would be grade A if we were to pursue any talent in free agency. He fits the 3-4 scheme. Lets go get em'!

No thanks

Re: New Orleans Saints: five defensive free agents to watch
 

Yeah, his fines alone would knock us back over the salary cap.

Re: New Orleans Saints: five defensive free agents to watch
 

He is approaching 34, had recent knee surgery (missed a few games in 2012). The Saints need to continue to move on with younger guys.

Pass

Re: New Orleans Saints: five defensive free agents to watch
 

I'd take J-F and Butler at the right price.

Re: New Orleans Saints: five defensive free agents to watch
 

Victor Butler bingo young proven and still has upside hype left to go. i safe low risk high reward and should be cap friendly

Re: New Orleans Saints: five defensive free agents to watch
 

What about Wilson?

Re: New Orleans Saints: five defensive free agents to watch
 

Adrian Wilson of the cards? if that him sure but get a medical done first. if that works out cool sign him. opps 4 mill went to a backup DE converting to LB so sorry charlie no cap left.

Re: New Orleans Saints: five defensive free agents to watch
 

I like Butler and RJF.........sign those guys and the defense is immediately better.