Welcome to the NFL Scouting Combine: Key Storylines for the New Orleans Saints
As the NFL scouting combine kicks off in Indianapolis, the buzz is palpable. Players are gearing up for drills and interviews that could shape their draft prospects, while team executives are busy behind the scenes, setting the stage for next month’s free agency.
This is where the whispers start, and the New Orleans Saints are right in the thick of it. Let’s dive into the key storylines surrounding the Saints as the league’s biggest convention gets underway.
Alontae Taylor’s Market Value
One of the hot topics is the market for Saints cornerback Alontae Taylor. Last season, the Saints held onto Taylor at the trade deadline despite interest from the Colts and Bears.
Now, as free agency looms, the question is how Taylor will be valued. The highest-paid nickel cornerback, Chicago’s Kyler Gordon, is on a three-year, $40 million deal.
Meanwhile, Taylor’s former teammate, Paulson Adebo, secured an $18 million annual average with the Giants. With such a gap, Taylor’s negotiations could be intriguing to watch, especially since previous talks with the Saints didn’t yield a new deal.
Veteran Decisions: Cam Jordan and Demario Davis
The Saints face another conundrum with veterans Cam Jordan and Demario Davis. Both players had impressive bounce-back seasons, but at 36, are they in line for a raise?
It’s rare for players their age to see salary increases, yet their performance might justify it. The combine could provide some insight into how the Saints and other teams value their experience and leadership.
Drafting Dazzling Defenders?
While many analysts believe the Saints should bolster their offense to support quarterback Tyler Shough, the combine might shift that narrative. The Saints have a need for edge rushers, and this class is strong in that area.
Prospects like Miami’s Rueben Bain, Texas Tech’s David Bailey, and Ohio State’s Arvell Reese could catch the Saints’ eye. Additionally, if Taylor leaves in free agency, Ohio State safety Caleb Downs might become an intriguing option at pick No.
Alvin Kamara’s Future
There’s been speculation about running back Alvin Kamara being a potential cut candidate, which could save the Saints $8.5 million with a post-June 1 release. However, the decision isn’t straightforward.
Kamara’s $18 million cap hit remains until June, meaning any financial benefit wouldn’t be immediate. The real question is whether Kamara would consider a pay cut to stay with the team, although it’s unclear if those discussions have taken place.
Derek Carr’s Potential Return
Finally, there’s buzz about Derek Carr potentially coming out of retirement. If he’s serious, the combine could be the perfect venue to gauge interest.
Carr has stated he’d only return for a Super Bowl contender, which narrows his options. The Saints might find a trade partner if a contending team is willing to take a chance on the soon-to-be 34-year-old, despite his recent shoulder injury.
As the combine unfolds, these storylines will be pivotal in shaping the Saints’ offseason strategy. Stay tuned as the drama in Indianapolis continues to unfold.