Which Saints players could be next for an extension…

Which Saints players could be next for an extension after Erik McCoy?

A lot has changed since we last examined the list of New Orleans Saints players headed for free agency in 2023. The top two players on our list have seen things go in vastly different directions — starting center Erik McCoy reached an agreement on a five-year contract extension, while fan-favorite nickel corner C.J. Gardner-Johnson was traded to the Eagles after talks broke down. So what’s next for everyone else?

Many of these players are going to be unrestricted free agents who can field offers from other teams, unless the Saints sign them to an extension ahead of time (or issue the tag for a franchise or transition player). Some of them will have restricted status, which basically ensures New Orleans will get the right of first refusal on opposing offers, and maybe bring in some compensation should the player leave. And a few are stuck as exclusive-rights free agents who will have to choose between playing for the Saints or not playing at all, unless the team relinquishes the opportunity.

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And a handful of pending Saints free agents will be in position to cash in. Market value estimates from the team at Spotrac suggest defensive end Marcus Davenport could reel in as much as $23.2 million per year on the open market; others like wide receiver Deonte Harty ($9.8 million per year), defensive tackle David Onyemata ($7.8 million per year), and defensive lineman Shy Tuttle ($6.3 million) are also seeing high estimates. But those are just one projection from a single outlet, and a lot can change in the months ahead. So don’t take those numbers as facts. They’re just something to note in looking ahead.

But that’s all a story for another day. Here is the full list of 27 pending Saints free agents for 2023: