WhoDat

What do you guys think needs to happen this offseason? What I want is not likely to happen, so I'll deal with reality and try to suggest moves that could be made.

1. Defensive Coordinator. Haslett has protected Venturi, and Venturi will point to the 4 game stretch in December to try to keep his post. Sorry Rick, you're a nice guy, but 23rd, 27th, 18th, and 32nd in the last 4 years. You're out. Who they should bring in I'm not really sure of yet.

2. Talent Scout. What we really need is a football GM, but I sincerely doubt Benson will dump his buddy Loomis. Plus, Loomis puts us in good cap situations. Haslett gets the players he wants, as far as I can tell. Thus, the best solution here is to say goodbye to baby Mueller and find a better talent scout.


While I want more changes in the staff, I really don't expect much more. Haslett, McCarthy, and Loomis all seem safe to me.


Player Personnel

I'll start with current players.

Joe Horn - do nothing or extend his contract. He is entering the last year of a 3 year 13.5 million dollar deal. He's worth every penny. His cap number in '05 will be high and he'll be a free agent after the year. Spread out his cap hit over 3 more years and let the guy retire a Saint.

Howard - If Howard will back off his demands to be paid like a top 5 DE, then I'd like to keep him. He's played well the second half, but his health is always the issue. I like Grant, Smith, Howard, and Whitehead in the rotation and if we can keep the guy I want to. I'm not sure I'd Franchise him again though. He's not worth that type of money.

Deuce - you guys better figure out a way to sign him long-term. This is probably the most important move, but I place it third b/c everyone in the world knows it is the most important move and I expect the Saints to treat it that way.

Sullivan - not an important move at all in terms of production, but one that is important financially, and more importantly to me, to show real strength by the Saints. This man needs to be traded or cut. Take whatever you can get, but get him off the team.

Other players who should be let go - Ambrose, Thomas (both have lost it entirely), Riley...


The needs aren't all that much different. Green played well at DT, but the Saints still need a NT/Big DT. MLB, but I like the idea of the rookies playing outside. CB to fight with Fahkir and add depth in the nickel. S is more and more of a concern. Tebucky, Mitchel, and Bellamy are all questionable in one area or another.

On offense, I'd like to see line improvements, especially at Tackle. Personally, I want to see another QB brought in to actually compete, but I doubt it will happen. We at least need some depth. WR remains a spot where we can get better.

What do you guys think?