JACKSON: Top Saints fits still available in free agency

By Ross Jackson

NFL Free Agency is finally about to officially begin. While the New Orleans Saints are expecting a group of five promising signings, the team still has a 90-man roster to fill out and only 68 players under contract. The Saints could very well still be looking to make additions. 

Here are some players that remain on the market that could be good options for New Orleans as they look to fill out their roster ahead of the NFL Draft and undrafted free agency.

Indianapolis Colts EDGE Samson Ebukam

The Saints didn’t land one of the top pass rushers in this year’s class, but could still get a driven and high-motor player in Ebukam. He missed the 2024 season with a torn Achilles, but returned for 2025 to play 14 games for the Colts. While he wasn’t entirely back to form, teams could look for the edge rusher to rebound to his previous production before the injury. Ebukam overlapped with now-Saints defensive coordinator, Brandon Staley, as a member of the Los Angeles Rams in 2020.

Atlanta Falcons EDGE Arnold Ebiketie

Another pass rusher the Saints could target from within the division, Ebiketie was lapped in the edge defender department last year with the recent additions to the room in Atlanta. After agreeing to terms with his teammate Kaden Elliss for a New Orleans reunion, the Saints could look to lure him to the Crescent City as well. The 6-foot-2, 250-pound defender is athletic off the edge and put together back-to-back six-sack seasons in 2023 and 2024. Saints’ EDGEs coach, Jay Rodgers was with the Falcons in 2024, coaching the defensive line.

Indianapolis Colts CB Mike Hilton

Another player looking to prove he’s got a lot left in the tank after injury, HIlton has long been one of the NFL’s best slot defenders. The 5-foot-9, 188-pound corner isn’t the most physically imposing player at the position, but has always been a reliable run defender and tackler. With the expected departure of Alontae Taylor closing in, the team’s slot cornerback role is open. Whether adding Hilton to take that role, compete for the role or mentor that role, he might be worth a one-year deal.

San Francisco 49ers WR Jauan Jennings

One position the Saints have not added to yet this offseason is wide receiver. Jennings is a do-it-all player that can also be effective after the catch. Last year, he reeled in 55 receptions for 643 receiving yards and nine touchdown catches in 15 games. It was a career-high year in touchdown receptions. He’s projected by Pro Football Focus to receive a $16.67 million per year deal, however, which may price him out in New Orleans. 

Pittsburgh Steelers WR Calvin Austin III

Part of quarterback Aaron Rodgers’ “cast-offs” group with the Steelers last year, the soon-to-be 27 year old wideout is looking for a new home and will likely settle in on a cost-effective deal. Austin caught 31 passes last year for 372 receiving yards and a trio of touchdown catches. He won’t challenge the top of the wide receiver room, but the Saints don’t really need that. What they need are clear answers behind the top of the depth chart. Austin could help provide that with his speedy, deep-threat and slot abilities. He also provides a good punt returner option, something the Saints could stand to invest in this offseason following the departure of return specialist and wideout Rashid Shaheed at the trade deadline last year.