Saints impressive free agency class sets up offseason success

By Ross Jackson

This year’s NFL offseason was always going to be an important one for the New Orleans Saints, who are in the midst of reopening their competitive window. Starting with a strong free agency class, one that didn’t break the bank in the process, sets the team up to achieve its largest goals with the NFL Draft on the horizon. 

With the editions of running back Travis Etienne Jr. and offensive lineman David Edwards, the Saints are primed to make advances in two important areas of their offense: pass protection and the run game. 

The addition of tight end Noah Fant helps young quarterback Tyler Shough have another potential explosive option in the passing game. Fant also contributes steadily as a run blocker, though his pass-catching reputation is often most praised. 

Then, additions like punter Ryan Wright and linebacker Kaden Elliss help to shore up a pair of under-the-radar needs for the team. Elliss adds more leadership and presence in the second level of Brandon Staley’s defense while Wright gives the Saints special team’s unit a chance to flip the field on a more reliable basis than New Orleans has seen for years. 

With all of these new additions, the Saints can now focus on addressing their remaining wants as opposed to feeling like they are going into the NFL Draft with needs. 

Edge rusher, defensive tackle, wide receiver and cornerback are positions that each have at least one starting player on the depth chart. However now, the Saints are in position to add impactful talent in each area and more. 

The Saints’ aggressive, though responsible, approach to free agency has set them on the path for necessary improvement is what is the most consequential offseason of the franchise’s new era.