Free agent TE Jared Cook schedules visit with Saints

The New Orleans Saints scheduled a free agent visit with former Oakland Raiders tight end Jared Cook, per a report from Ian Rapoport of NFL Network. The Saints have just one tight end on the roster with much experience in Josh Hill, and badly need an upgrade at the position after Ben Watson retired following the 2018 season.

#Raiders FA TE Jared Cook, the top available player at his position, is scheduled to visit the #Saints tomorrow, source said. There is a void there right now.

— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) March 13, 2019

Cook is the consensus top option among tight ends on the free agent market, having posted two very solid years for the Raiders in 2017 and 2018. He recorded more yards after the catch last season (361) than the tight ends under contract for the Saints managed in total (335). He would be a tremendous upgrade, if they manage to reach an agreement.

Vic Tafur of the Athletic confirmed Cook’s scheduled meeting with the Saints, and noted that the Raiders and New England Patriots are each interested in his services. So this is far from a done deal.