By Ross Jackson
Following the first few waves of free agency, things have begun to calm down around the NFL which has been a frenzy the past three days. While things are slowing down, more signings are on the way with big names still available and needs still to be met.
For the New Orleans Saints, there are still a few key needs that the team should be looking to address on the open market. After adding a playmaking safety in the secondary and a big-bodied, versatile defensive lineman in the trenches, addressing the offense and a premiere position in defense are still musts for the Saints.
Here are a few of their biggest remaining needs along with an available fit at each position that has familiarity with the new coaching staff.
Left Guard
The Saints need a starter here, making it a major priority. The team manned this position with journeyman offensive lineman Lucas Patrick last year, but the play and health along the unit were inconsistent. New Orleans reunited with offensive lineman Will Clapp on Thursday morning, and while he will add some experience and valuable depth potential, the team still needs someone to solidify the starting five.
Available fit: Philadelphia Eagles offensive lineman Mekhi Becton
Wide Receiver
While the Saints have two explosive, young wide receivers in Chris Olave and Rashid Shaheed, finding a complement that brings physicality to their speed could be a solid move for New Orleans. Whether a big-bodied outside receiver or a physical slot receiver, the Saints could use another body at the top of their wideout room and there are still some available options on the market.
Available fit: Buffalo Bills wide receiver Amari Cooper
Boundary Cornerback
New Orleans helped themselves a bit here on Thursday morning as well with the signing of cornerback Isaac Yiadom who spent part of the 2022 and the entirety of the 2023 season with the Saints. After a year away with the San Francisco 49ers, he’s back on a three-year, $9 million deal that’s worth up to $10.5 million.
Yiadom could start on the outside in 2025, but the Saints may still be on the hunt to bolster the group, particularly on the perimeter.
Available fit: Los Angeles Chargers cornerback Asante Samuel Jr.
