The New Orleans Saints are looking to undergo another major change for the second year in a row. Last year, long-time quarterback Drew Brees retired from the NFL. This year, according to multiple reports, long-time head coach Sean Payton will be moving on from the team.
One of the reasons that Payton may be leaving New Orleans is their significant salary cap issues along with no starting level quarterback on the roster. The salary cap has been an issue that the Saints have pushed off for years with some creative cap maneuvering but could be a problem moving forward.
At this point, Over the Cap has New Orleans estimated as $74 million over the 2022 NFL salary cap. The next closest is the Green Bay Packers at $40 million over, with the Dallas Cowboys third at $21 million over.
Due to void years in his previous contract, Brees will still cost the Saints over $11 million in salary cap in 2022. He cost the same in 2021 despite not playing. Brees’ dead cap hits finally expire in the 2023 season.
In order to get under the salary cap, and to reset the team after Brees’ and Payton’s departures, New Orleans could be open for trade business. The Cleveland Browns could have interest in several players but cap gymnastics might have to be played:
- WR Michael Thomas – The former Ohio State Buckeye, Thomas is coming off surgery that cost him all of 2021 but was a top ten receiver in previous years. The Saints would have to eat $22 million in a dead cap hit if they trade him before June 1st but less than $9 million if it is after.
- DE Cameron Jordan – At 32 years old, Jordan’s best play may be behind him but he still has talent. Like Thomas, New Orleans would likely have to trade him after June 1st.
- DE Marcus Davenport – The less proven edge rusher finally had a breakout season in 2021 but is set for free agency after 2022. Perhaps the Saints won’t want to pay up and, instead, get something in return a year early.
- OT Ryan Ramczyk – Another player that would have to be traded after June 1st, Cleveland could have interest if Jack Conklin struggles to return from his injury. Ramczyk is signed through 2026 and is only 27.
- K Wil Lutz – At this point, kicker is a high priority this offseason. Lutz’s salary may just be too high for Andrew Berry and company.
- DB Chauncy Gardner Johnson – CGJ can play both slot corner and safety. He’s on the final year of his rookie deal and could help replace Ronnie Harrison.
- WR Marquez Callaway – A young receiver who had six touchdowns in 2021. With Cleveland looking to revamp their receiver room, a young player that has produced could be a fit.
A few older players like Malcolm Jenkins and Demario Davis could also be available but may not fit what the Browns are looking for in a trade.
