saintz08

New Orleans

You may have seen Saints DT Norman Hand on HBO’s "REAL Sports with Bryant Gumbel," in which Hand voiced his concerns over the effects the 330 pounds he carries on his 6-3 frame will have on his future health. Insiders say Hand also is concerned because the extra weight he carried late in the season affected his play as well. Considering that the Saints likely will release him to avoid the $4.3 million salary-cap hit they will take if they keep him around for next season, Hand needs to shed some pounds to find a new job. But Hand isn’t the only Saint who has struggled with his weight. DT Grady Jackson may be listed at 6-3, 330, but insiders say Jackson was pushing 400 pounds by the time the season wrapped up in late December. New Orleans would like Jackson to return next season, but they are looking for him to come back with his weight more under control