Feb. 26, 2008

The Saints figure to be major players in negotiations with defensive free agents at just about every position but defensive end. New Orleans will have around $30 million in cap space and will likely target marquee players at cornerback and defensive tackle, where the team is in great need of improvement. The franchise has shown a willingness to pay top dollar for free agents since coach Sean Payton took over in 2006, and the top available players at their position, like CB Asante Samuel, could be on New Orleans’ radar. The Saints’ high-powered offense would be bolstered by the addition of a pass-catching tight end and a No. 2 wide receiver to be paired with the squad’s No. 1, Marques Colston. DE Will Smith and Colston are both candidates for long-term extensions.