5 positions the Saints must address this offseason
With the New Orleans Saints making a quick decision and keeping Sean Payton as their head coach, it means that all attention can now shift to their 2016 offseason plan. The Saints were one of the worst teams in the NFL defensively, so it's obvious much of their focus will be there. With that said, there are also some offensive positions the Saints will badly need to address.
Overall, New Orleans has some great young talent on their roster, but will need to use the offseason as a way to improve across the board. Let's look at the five positions the Saints need to address the most this offseason.
1. Guard
Jahri Evans is getting up there in age, and it wouldn't be surprising to see the team look to upgrade on their line somewhere. Whether they want to keep Evans for another year or two, adding some young depth is going to be a key to their future success. One thing that's certain is that the Saints need to make sure they're well equipped to protect Drew Brees for years to come. There are quite a few young, interesting options at the position, including Alex Boone and J.R. Sweezy.
2. Cornerback
Delvin Breaux was superb in his first year with the Saints, but Brandon Browner was just the opposite. Finding someone to take over his role, as there's a chance he may not even be in New Orleans for much longer, would be a smart move. The Saints have a few interesting prospects, but no one who's ready to jump up and take over Browner's spot. In 2016 free agency, keep your eye on Sean Smith or Prince Amukamara, but both may be out of New Orleans' price range. They may take a shot on a veteran like Adam "Pacman" Jones or Charles Tillman.
3. Tight end
While Benjamin Watson had a breakout season for the Saints, he's 35 years old and is set to be a free agent. Basically, it's just Josh Hill left at this point, as Michael Hoomanawanui is also set to become a free agent. Basically, the Saints badly need to address this position unless they believe Hill is the man for the job. I'd love to see Vernon Davis play with Drew Brees, but other intriguing options include two former Colts in Dwayne Allen and Coby Fleener.
4. Linebacker
Dannell Ellerbe was expected to be the man, and the 30-year-old has been - when he's been able to stay healthy. Unfortunately, Ellerbe can't stay on the field at this point, so it's obvious that the Saints are going to need to find the future to pair up with Stephone Anthony this offseason. There's a whole lot of intriguing options in free agency, but keep an eye on Bruce Irvin.
5. Wide receiver
Brandin Cooks is young and talented, but Marques Colston is getting up there in age. Willie Snead has come along quite nicely, but having another playmaker for Drew Brees (or hopefully Garrett Grayson in the future) would go a long way for this team. Snead seems to be the real deal, which is why this need isn't higher, but the Saints could still use another weapon for Brees in the passing game. Travis Benjamin could excel with Brees, and the same could be said about Rishard Matthews. Or, maybe we could see a return of Lance Moore?
*All salary cap information comes from Spotrac.com
Jeff Smith writes about the NFL for FOX Sports. You can find him on Twitter @JSM8ith.
