Report: Jonathan Vilma, Will Smith not a lock to make the Saints roster
 

Other than Brees and a handful of other players, I would say the title of the article applies to several players.
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According to SportsNola.com, linebackers Will Smith and Jonathan Vilma both aren’t locks to make the Saints final roster now that they’ve switched to a 3-34 defense under new defensive coordinator Rob Ryan.
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New scheme, new defensive coordinator, perhaps even new roles for veteran defenders Jonathan Vilma and Will Smith. Both players agreed to take pay cuts to remain with the team, a move based on self-preservation perhaps. But it also shows that the coaches believe they still have something to offer. Time will tell. Contrary to what some observers think, neither player is a lock to make the team.

Vilma had a hard time when the Jets switched to a 3-4. That’s one of the reasons they traded him to the Saints. Smith on the other hand just isn’t the pass rusher he once was.

Report: Jonathan Vilma, Will Smith not a lock to make the Saints roster - Pro Football Zone

Re: Report: Jonathan Vilma, Will Smith not a lock to make the Saints roster
 

It will cost us a small fortune to cut them from the 2013 team. We wouldn't save much money (if any) at all so unless they just absolutely suck and we have numerous guys who are better already, the are indeed a lock to make the team.

Re: Report: Jonathan Vilma, Will Smith not a lock to make the Saints roster
 

Best man for the position is good with me, even if does cost. Not that I have any say in that.

Re: Report: Jonathan Vilma, Will Smith not a lock to make the Saints roster
 

You have to earn your job.

Re: Report: Jonathan Vilma, Will Smith not a lock to make the Saints roster
 

I am actually surprised they made it this far. But seriously, until better replacements are found, they will stick around for a while.

Re: Report: Jonathan Vilma, Will Smith not a lock to make the Saints roster
 

So is this news or just opinion? I know there is little difference in this world, but this seems nothing more than someone lurking here on B&G then writing down what a bunch of folk are saying.

Re: Report: Jonathan Vilma, Will Smith not a lock to make the Saints roster
 

Hope they stay but best man for the position!

Re: Report: Jonathan Vilma, Will Smith not a lock to make the Saints roster
 

Vilma was wearing the green dot at OTA's. I think he's in the mix this year because of his leadership skills although it may be a diminished role. Payton loves him........so do I.
Smith is just taking a roster spot from a younger player in my opinion. He might have enough to stick it out another year but I doubt it.

Re: Report: Jonathan Vilma, Will Smith not a lock to make the Saints roster
 

I think Vilma could be an asset even if he does not make the starting line-up his veteran leadership will justify a roster spot. I can't say the same for Smith.

Re: Report: Jonathan Vilma, Will Smith not a lock to make the Saints roster
 

Vilma was the guy playing chess with Peyton Manning in the Super Bowl. As we all know, he won. A healthy Vilma is a great thing. Will Smith...egh.

Re: Report: Jonathan Vilma, Will Smith not a lock to make the Saints roster
 

A 35 year old slow 4-3 DE would not be a good fit for our new 3-4... Too small to play on the line and too slow to make the move to LB...

Re: Report: Jonathan Vilma, Will Smith not a lock to make the Saints roster
 

Abraham's not looking like much of a fit for anyone. The only way he's going to play this year is if a team has a whole bunch of injuries on their DL.

Re: Report: Jonathan Vilma, Will Smith not a lock to make the Saints roster
 

If the Von Miller suspension stands wouldn't be surprised to see him(Abraham) on a one year deal at the Broncos depending on cap hit.

Re: Report: Jonathan Vilma, Will Smith not a lock to make the Saints roster
 

The cowpies just lost a couple of DL guys too.... This is not drama by the way.

Re: Report: Jonathan Vilma, Will Smith not a lock to make the Saints roster
 

Feel sorry for any player going down for the season before camp really starts.

Re: Report: Jonathan Vilma, Will Smith not a lock to make the Saints roster
 

There's a reason he was let go and is still a free agent... :rolleyes:

Re: Report: Jonathan Vilma, Will Smith not a lock to make the Saints roster
 

Taking pay cuts does say something I think.

Hell Ellis retired & isn't playing for Da Bears, so...

Re: Report: Jonathan Vilma, Will Smith not a lock to make the Saints roster
 

With a little bit of help from Darren Sharper.;)