The New Orleans Saints entered NFL free agency with one of the worst salary-cap situations in the league and many rival clubs were wondering if the franchise would finally push toward a rebuild. Instead, New Orleans splurged and they could’ve had an even bigger class of free-agency signings.
New Orleans first re-signed edge rusher Chase Young to a three-year contract worth $17 million per season. The club also brought back tight end Juwan Johnson on a two-year deal worth $10.25 million annually. On top of that, it landed safety Justin Reid for $10.5 million per season over three years and reunited with Brandin Cooks on a two-year deal.
All of those moves suggest the franchise is still trying to win the NFC South and compete in 2025, even if many around the league believe a rebuild is necessary. Evidently, Saints general manager Mickey Loomis tried to spend even more money this offseason, only to be outbid at the last minute.
During an appearance on The Ride with JMV, All-Pro cornerback Charvarius Ward revealed he thought he would be signing with New Orleans before the Indianapolis Colts swooped in and made him a bigger offer.
“Originally, I thought I was going to New Orleans. The deal was almost done. Then the Colts, I guess they realized how great of a player I am, and they came in and kind of beat out the Saints at the last minute.”
Indianapolis Colts CB Charvarius Ward on nearly signing with the New Orleans Saints (H/T James Boyd)
Ward ultimately signed a three-year, $54 million contract with Indianapolis worth $18 million per season with $27 million guaranteed at signing. While the terms of the deal New Orleans offered obviously weren’t revealed, it stands to reason the Saints also submitted a deal that would’ve made him one of the highest-paid NFL cornerbacks.
Loomis continues to operate the Saints as if rebuilding isn’t an option, constantly borrowing money for the future to try and keep the team relevant in the upcoming season. Yet, New Orleans has missed the playoffs in four consecutive seasons and is coming off just a five-win campaign. At the very least, the pursuit of Ward suggests we could see the Saints select cornerback Will Johnson with the ninth overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft since the team has a glaring need at the position.
