The New Orleans Saints jumped headfirst into the NFL’s negotiating window ahead of the March 13 signing period, working to retain their own free agents and sign others from rival teams. We’ll be tracking every move in this space with instant analysis on each free agent. Keep it bookmarked.
Free agents re-signed
- 3/9. Safety Chris Banjo: three years, $9 million. This was a great move, adding depth to a position that needed it badly. It also locks in Banjo as one of the team’s top performers on special teams, assuring continuity on a unit in flux. New special teams coordinator Darren Rizzi will need veterans like Banjo around to ensure a smooth transition. Banjo has earned the right to compete for playing time on defense, maybe growing into something more than a backup and an afterthought.
- 3/11. Linebacker Chris Robertson: two years, $4 million. Just like Banjo, keeping Robertson around helps the Saints keep the operation moving on special teams. He’s the incumbent special teams captain, after all. Robertson is also a quality backup at linebacker. The Saints will need players like him to provide their experience if a starter like Alex Anzalone or A.J. Klein goes down with an injury.
- 3/12. Quarterback Teddy Bridgewater: contract details TBD. This is a tremendous re-signing for New Orleans, returning a 26-year old quarterback who could succeed to the throne once Drew Brees retires. Until then, the Saints know they have one of the NFL’s best backup quarterbacks.
Free agents lost
- 2/21. Safety Kurt Coleman: released, saving $4.55 million. The Saints cut Coleman earlier in the offseason to free up salary cap space. He was an early signing last year but that move proved to be unwise as his playing time decreased. In the end, the Saints did not even trust Coleman to help in the playoffs, with him appearing in just a few snaps in their two postseason games.
Free agents gained
- 3/12. Running back Latavius Murray: four years, $14.4 million. This likely signals that Mark Ingram is out of the Saints’ plans. Murray is a similar big, physical runner who can compliment Alvin Kamara in the backfield. He’s scored 14 rushing touchdowns over the last two years, and is also an accomplished receiver.
