NFL FanHouse

Will Smith Gets Extended (Overpaid?)

Tom Mantzouranis — Wed, 11 Jun 2008 15:05:00 EST

Filed under: Saints, NFC South, New Orleans

It was exactly a week ago today that I guessed that the Saints would announce a contract extension for defensive end Will Smith before the week ended. I was a few days late on that prediction, but I won't let that stop me from giving myself dap (do the kids still say that?) in noting that the deal was announced today. And Smith is a very rich man.

The extension calls for Smith to earn up to $70 million over six years, with $26 million in guaranteed money. The deal places him third on the list of highest-paid ends behind Jared Allen and Dwight Freeney, but Smith's deal isn't far behind either of those two. It also trumps the seven-year, $63 million deal with $20 million that linemate Charles Grant got a summer ago. So was it worth it?

Well, who knows. Smith was on his way to being a premiere pass-rusher before fattening up and playing poorly last year. New line coach Ed Orgeron is trying to install a scheme much like the Giants' (who isn't?), which relies on lighter, faster linemen, so Smith will have the opportunity to remind everyone that he's got the ability. Whether he takes advantage remains to be seen.

Either way, from a talent, PR, and chemistry standpoint the Saints couldn't afford to see Smith walk after this year, and they had/have plenty of cap room. But with the money tied in its ends, the team will be hearing some deserved scorn from its fanbase if they're not a terror for quarterbacks.

Will Smith Gets Extended (Overpaid?) originally appeared on NFL FanHouse on Wed, 11 Jun 2008 15:05:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Linking Blogs | Comments

The More Interesting Aspect of the Saints' Front Office Reorganization

Tom Mantzouranis — Thu, 05 Jun 2008 11:40:00 EST

Filed under: Saints, NFC South, NFL Real Talk, New Orleans

While some find yesterday's announcement that the Saints have fired vice president of player personnel Rick Mueller intriguing because of what it means for Sean Payton's role with the team, there's another aspect of the news that interests me.

After all, anyone who's followed the Saints since Payton has arrived knows that he's been the personnel decision-maker all along; removing Mueller just makes it official. More importantly, the team has hired Khai Harley as vice president of football operations to replace Russ Ball, who left for a similar position in Green Bay.

Harley will manage the salary cap and conduct contract negotiations in New Orleans. What fascinates me about this hire is what he's got on his C.V. Namely, five years as manager of labor operations with the NFL management council, where his main responsibility was making sure contracts were compliant with the CBA and the NFL's constitution and bylaws. He's also got extensive knowledge of where the CBA talks are and where they're going.

As things are beginning to get hectic, teams have to consider contracts with regards not only to the current CBA, but to a potential work stoppage and future CBA as well. That being said, it makes sense for a team to hire a supposed "expert" in that department to handle contracts. It's just another sign, if we needed any more, that we're entering the real muck of the labor dispute.

The More Interesting Aspect of the Saints' Front Office Reorganization originally appeared on NFL FanHouse on Thu, 05 Jun 2008 11:40:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Linking Blogs | Comments

Expect a Will Smith Contract Extension Announcement Sometime Soon

Tom Mantzouranis — Wed, 04 Jun 2008 12:54:00 EST

Filed under: Saints, NFC South, New Orleans

I noted that Will Smith's attendance at last weekend's minicamp was a good sign that he and the team are close to finalizing a contract extension, or at least negotiating in good faith.

I now am optimistic that a formal announcement will come sometime this week, perhaps even later today. Smith reported on WWL radio last night that he didn't have any good news to report on the contract front but that he might in the near future. Likewise, Sean Payton, in response to a question about whether Smith's contract had been "sorted out," said, "...when the time comes there will be an announcement," indicating it's more about the when than the if.

The subject of the extension is a divisive one. After getting $63 million last offseason, Charles Grant practically disappeared. Smith will surely command even more, especially with big money deals to Dwight Freeney and Jared Allen since. Smith's a very good player, but it remains to be seen whether he deserves the top-tier pay he will surely get.

On the other hand, he is the team's best defensive player and you can't let a guy like that walk when you're close to rebuilding that unit. The Saints are also around $25 million under the cap, which gives them plenty of room to sign all of their rookies and lock up Smith (and Marques Colston). So the money's there.

Either way, whether you're in favor of the extension or not, it's happening. And probably soon.

Expect a Will Smith Contract Extension Announcement Sometime Soon originally appeared on NFL FanHouse on Wed, 04 Jun 2008 12:54:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Linking Blogs | Comments

Will Smith, Marques Colston Show Up at Minicamp in Good Faith

Tom Mantzouranis — Fri, 30 May 2008 15:11:00 EST

Filed under: Saints, NFC South, New Orleans

Now this is what I call harmony. Will Smith and Marques Colston both want new contracts. The New Orleans Saints are aware of this. Rather than miss this weekend's first mandatory action to force the issue with the team's front office, both players are with their team.

"I wanted to be team guy and be here for my teammates," said Smith, who faced fines if he was not present for the minicamp. "My main goal is to win a Super Bowl this year. I wanted to be here and help the team out."

Smith made a minor statement, missing the team's voluntary activities, but at least he's there when it matters. Colston has been present all along. Both are represented by Joel Segal.

Obviously both players have enough faith in the organization that a deal will be made soon, and I'd expect both -- Smith definitely -- to be re-upped before the season begins. Which highlights a misconception casual fans typically have about players wanting new deals.

Not every player is selfish. Not every team is cheap. Not every negotiation is acrimonious. There are instances where both sides are on the same page, and it's simply about taking the time to work it out. While that's going on, at least Smith and Colston are getting set for 2009.

Will Smith, Marques Colston Show Up at Minicamp in Good Faith originally appeared on NFL FanHouse on Fri, 30 May 2008 15:11:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Linking Blogs | Comments

Charles Grant Surprisingly Indicted in Georgia Night Club Killing

Tom Mantzouranis — Tue, 20 May 2008 22:13:00 EST

Filed under: Saints, NFC South, New Orleans, NFL Police Blotter

Charles Grant was involved in an altercation that ended with a knife in his neck and a pregnant mother shot to death in February. Though Grant's role in the incident was never defined, investigators practically absolved Grant of any and all blame in the woman's murder. That was three months ago and nothing has been heard of it since. Seemed like that would be that.

But it's not. Early County, GA has charged Grant with involuntary manslaughter and misdemeanor fighting charges. In Georgia, involuntary manslaughter when paired with a misdemeanor automatically becomes a felony, which faces a one- to 10-year prison sentence.

It's still unknown exactly what Grant is being charged for, but the fact that he avoided a felony murder and feticide charge, unlike Laquient Macklin, is significant. It seems like they're charging Grant of simply being in a fight that eventually resulted in a murder. That may seem trivial, but the context of the charge certainly matters. Though I'm no expert and still await the eventual avalanche of details, I'd be surprised if Grant gets any jail time.

Whether the league is as lenient, and how a potential trial would interfere with his season, however, remain to be seen.

Charles Grant Surprisingly Indicted in Georgia Night Club Killing originally appeared on NFL FanHouse on Tue, 20 May 2008 22:13:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Linking Blogs | Comments

Getting Garage Sale Linebackers Hasn't Turn Out Well for New Orleans

Tom Mantzouranis — Tue, 20 May 2008 13:00:00 EST

Filed under: Saints, NFC South, New Orleans

Astute Saints fans weren't counting on Dan Morgan to start at weakside linebacker, or even be on the opening day roster. And now that we know his five-plus concussions haven't inhibited him from making the smart choice about retirement, those of us are vindicated. It's also clear to everyone now that the Saints haven't upgraded that spot in the front seven at all, and that's the fault of a flawed Saints philosophy.

The team hasn't had a good set of linebackers since the early '90s. The best linebacker they've had since, Jonathan Vilma, hasn't even gone through a day of training camp. In the past, bad linebacking could be attributed to bad drafting, but Sean Payton has gone in the opposite direction.

In over two years since Payton has taken over, he's preferred veteran, unspectacular linebackers at the expense sometimes of age, health, and ability. Vilma and, arguably, Scott Fujita are exceptions. But aside from those two, we've seen Scott Shanle, Mark Simoneau, Brian Simmons, Anthony Simmons, Dhani Jones, and now Morgan brought in with decidedly average results, if any at all -- Jones didn't last a preseason, and Anthony Simmons retired in the offseason just as Morgan has. Even Vilma, with his knee, is a gamble.

Which means you'll see Shanle and Simoneau fight for the weakside job, with maybe another listless vet thrown in for "competition." But for once at this position the Saints should target upside -- perhaps a deal with Dallas for Bobby Carpenter, the former first-rounder who seems lost outside of his native 4-3. The team has gambled on plenty of linebackers lately, this is just a different sort of gamble.

Getting Garage Sale Linebackers Hasn't Turn Out Well for New Orleans originally appeared on NFL FanHouse on Tue, 20 May 2008 13:00:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Linking Blogs | Comments

Dan Morgan Retires

Sportz Assassin — Tue, 20 May 2008 03:36:00 EST

Filed under: Panthers, Saints, NFC South, NFL Injuries, Charlotte, New Orleans

New Orleans Saints linebacker Dan Morgan retired on Monday, ending a productive, albeit oft-injured career. Morgan played his entire seven-year career with the Carolina Panthers before signing with the Saints this offseason.

"When we signed Dan, he was committed to making a fresh start, and he was making every effort to rehabilitate the leg injury that he suffered last year," said Coach Sean Payton in a statement. "But it wasn't responding as well as he had hoped it would. We wish him well in his continued recovery, and he will be remembered for the excellent player he was during his career."

Indeed. Morgan was one of those guys who was a great leader on the field ... but he just couldn't stay there. He was the Panthers #11 overall choice in the 2001 NFL Draft and quickly became a huge part of the team's eventual run to Super Bowl XXXVIII. He would become a Pro Bowler in 2004.

But injuries kept him from continuing to perform at a high level. He had an estimated five concussions that sidelined him at various times and nearly ended his career. An partian tear in his Achilles tendon forced him to miss Carolina's final 13 games last year. He never played a full season ... and played in just four games over the past two seasons.

Morgan won the Butkus, Nagurski and Bednarik Awards in college at Miami, becoming the first player to win all three awards during his career (and he did so in just one season).

Dan Morgan Retires originally appeared on NFL FanHouse on Tue, 20 May 2008 03:36:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Linking Blogs | Comments

Saints, New Orleans, Hope to Host Super Bowl

Michael David Smith — Sat, 17 May 2008 21:12:00 EST

Filed under: Saints, Super Bowl, New Orleans

New Orleans city officials would love to host the Super Bowl. Saints officials would love to see the Super Bowl played in their home stadium. The NFL would love to award a Super Bowl to New Orleans as a gesture toward a downtrodden city. Past Super Bowls in New Orleans have gone over well. Everyone agrees that New Orleans should get a Super Bowl.

So that would seem to indicate that the Super Bowl should go to New Orleans soon. But it won't until 2013 at the earliest, and even then it's looking like a long shot, as the Saints' lease with the Superdome would first need to get worked out. Jimmy Smith of the Times Picayune has the Saints' explanation:

"New Orleans intends to bid on the 2013 Super Bowl," Vice President of Communications Greg Bensel wrote in the e-mail. "Per NFL Super Bowl bid policy, there must exist a lease for the host team. We did explore extending our lease with the intent to bid for the 2012 Super Bowl."

Right now the Saints' lease with the State of Louisiana, which operates the Superdome, expires in 2010. If a new agreement can't be reached to extend that lease soon, New Orleans won't get the Super Bowl, even if everyone thinks it should.

Saints, New Orleans, Hope to Host Super Bowl originally appeared on NFL FanHouse on Sat, 17 May 2008 21:12:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Linking Blogs | Comments

The Saints Aren't Leaving New Orleans

Tom Mantzouranis — Thu, 08 May 2008 14:10:00 EST

Filed under: Saints, NFC South, NFL Media Watch, NFL Real Talk, New Orleans

Since Hurricane Katrina, the Saints have been rumored to be on the outs from New Orleans. Los Angeles, San Antonio, Berlin in the NFL Europa 2.0 league -- most people have been placing the future of the team in cities that aren't New Orleans (maybe that last one was made up).

Those rumors, in Katrina's wake, were justified -- and if insiders are to be believed, Tom Benson's plan to upheave the Saints to San Antonio was far more reality than rumor. Just google "New Orleans' crumbling economy can't meet the financial demands of a pro football team," and you'll get plenty of results arguing for relocation.

But those rumors haven't died even though the NFL, from the waaaay back days of Paul Tagliabue, has committed over and over to keeping the Saints in New Orleans for the long haul. When the specs were unveiled last month for the beautiful new stadium potentially coming to Los Angeles, some media reports had the Saints as potential tenants despite two consecutive season ticket sell-outs.

But the team isn't going anywhere.

Local cynicism has remained even though everybody in charge was saying the right things -- the city has taken on that "we'll believe it when we see it" attitude. But a significant event occurred last week when Benson agreed to purchase WVUE, Louisiana's Fox affiliate. Let's be honest here -- no matter how any press release glamorizes the purchase, there's a whole lot that Benson will benefit from with the acquisition, and not just financially. It will be nice for Benson to be able to not only air his team's games but control much of the local exposure they get as well. But this is a significant commitment from Benson and the Saints to the city, for obvious reasons.

But there's still that pesky contract that only keeps the Saints in New Orleans through 2010. That looming end, despite productive talks between the team and the state, is still staring everyone in the face, especially since Benson wants a new stadium which the state may or may not be willing/able to provide. But in a recent interview with the Wall Street Journal, Mayor Nagin notes that he's confident that, regarding an extension, the two sides are "going to get that done really soon. He says that once the extension comes the team will be "locked in for many, many years" and expresses hope for a Super Bowl soon after the extension is finalized.

Now of course, he's a politician (and a bad one, at that), so take all of this with whatever size grain of salt you prefer. And bemoan the fact that these men aren't the great, kind souls they'd like us to believe -- this is all happening because it's in their best interests, not New Orleans'; if moving would have been better for the team and city government they'd allow it to happen and then kick you in the face for complaining. But, still, the Saints are in New Orleans to stay. Isn't that what matters?

The Saints Aren't Leaving New Orleans originally appeared on NFL FanHouse on Thu, 08 May 2008 14:10:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Linking Blogs | Comments

Deuce McAllister Shouldn't Care About Shaun Alexander's Plodding Footsteps Behind Him

Tom Mantzouranis — Tue, 06 May 2008 11:32:00 EST

Filed under: Saints, NFC South, New Orleans

The news that Shaun Alexander (pictured right) is visiting the Saints has been met with concern and the overwhelming sound of an entire city groaning at the same time.

The concern stems from the fact that people seem to believe that the news that the Saints are "interested" means that the good vibrations from Deuce McAllister's restructuring are over, that this is the beginning of Deuce's demise. The groaning because, well, Shaun Alexander?

But let's not overreact. This is just a (flat) tire kicking. Alexander is making visits, the Saints might need a back at some point. The two sides are familiarizing. That doesn't mean either will like what they find.

For Alexander, it doesn't make sense to sign with any team right now; his value is at its lowest. He'll wait until camp to capitalize on injuries, when he'll command more money. And if the Saints really had an interest in replacing Deuce, they would have surely been better off addressing the need in the draft or with a rookie free agent. They didn't bring a single back into the fold. Though I highly, highly doubt that this pairing will happen, it certainly could. But that would be the aftermath of McAllister's release (because of the health of his knee), not the cause of it.

Deuce McAllister Shouldn't Care About Shaun Alexander's Plodding Footsteps Behind Him originally appeared on NFL FanHouse on Tue, 06 May 2008 11:32:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Linking Blogs | Comments

Jammal Brown Was Never Discussed in Draft Day Trade Talks (Wink Wink)

Tom Mantzouranis — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 15:48:00 EST

Filed under: Saints, NFC South, NFL Draft, New Orleans

Some of the last-minute rumor-mongering leading up to the first day of the draft had the Saints dangling All Pro left tackle Jammal Brown in trade talks with the Rams and Chiefs for their first-round picks, and the Eagles for Lito Sheppard. None happened, and Brown is still a Saint. Sean Payton insists it was never going to happen any other way.

"There is (so much) written leading up to the draft, and I bet it's about 50-percent accurate and 50-percent false," Payton said. "When it comes to a player like Jammal, I think it's a credit to him. ... but we're not interested in trading (him).

"I read a little bit of that, but you'll go crazy trying to pay attention to all of it. There was no interest on our part in trading him."

He may be telling the truth. I've got no knowledge of the situation (and very little knowledge in general). But I'm also not about to deem this an open and shut case. Simply, the team would never come out and say that it attempted to trade a player after failing, especially one as vital as Brown. That might create some acrimony, what scientists have dubbed the "Ocho Cinco Effect" (look it up in the next DSM).

But here's the truth -- Brown's knees have long-term uncertainty, he'll be looking for a big deal soon, and the team has stockpiled offensive tackles for what I believe are reasons that extend beyond the fact that it's good practice to build depth there. It might not be this year, but I don't think Brown is long for New Orleans.

Jammal Brown Was Never Discussed in Draft Day Trade Talks (Wink Wink) originally appeared on NFL FanHouse on Tue, 29 Apr 2008 15:48:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Linking Blogs | Comments

NFL Draft Grades: New Orleans Saints

Tom Mantzouranis — Mon, 28 Apr 2008 12:49:00 EST

Filed under: Saints, NFC South, NFL Draft, New Orleans

New Orleans Saints 2008 Draft Picks:

Round 1 (7): Sedrick Ellis, DT, USC
Round 2 (40): Tracy Porter, CB, Indiana
Round 5 (144): DeMario Pressley, DT, North Carolina St.
Round 5 (164): Carl Nicks, OT, Nebraska
Round 6 (178): Taylor Mehlhaff, K, Wisconsin
Round 7 (237): Adrian Arrington, WR, Michigan

The Good: The Saints needed to come out of the draft with either Glenn Dorsey or Ellis, and got Ellis at a great price. He's going to make an immediate impact for a defense which has long lacked a playmaker. Porter is an underrated corner who didn't get much exposure, but he's great at man coverage which plays right into the Saints' defensive scheme. Defensive tackle and cornerback were the team's biggest needs, and they addressed them well right away.

Arrington is already being saddled with Marques Colston comparisons -- he's got the size Colston has and a reputation for making tough catches and being reliable in the redzone, though overshadowed by Mario Manningham. The Saints targeted him as a free agent, but sensing he'd be selected before that traded a '09 sixth-rounder to get back into the seventh for him.

The Bad: While the Saints seemed to get great value in the fifth with Pressley (a projected second-rounder) and Nicks (third), they uncharacteristically went against their personnel philosophy. Both Nicks and Arrington had trouble with the law in college, and Pressley is known as talented but inconsistent with a questionable work ethic. The team has never drafted talent at the expense of character, but they took that risk here. They also could have afforded to add a linebacker with one of those late picks, but many teams shied away from that position, possibly indicating a simple lack of talent.

The Grade: B. Ellis and Porter will contribute a lot right away, and I'm pretty confident that Mehlhaff's big leg will be valuable on field goals and kickoffs alike, but the other three picks are question marks. If the team is right in that the issues Pressley, Nicks, and Arrington have had are more indications of long-gone misguided youth than deeper-seeded issues, the Saints will have had one hell of a draft. If not, Ellis and Porter alone is a very good bounty.

Click here to read other Draft Grades.

NFL Draft Grades: New Orleans Saints originally appeared on NFL FanHouse on Mon, 28 Apr 2008 12:49:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Linking Blogs | Comments

7. New Orleans Saints: Sedrick Ellis, DT, USC

Michael David Smith — Sat, 26 Apr 2008 15:47:00 EST

Filed under: Saints, NFL Draft, New Orleans

USC defensive tackle Sedrick Ellis is known as a great athlete and a guy with the character that makes him too good a person to be a Bengal, so it's a good thing that the New Orleans Saints traded up and took Ellis before the Bengals could get their filthy paws on him.

NFL teams have said Ellis will play defensive tackle, and that's where he should play for the Saints, but I could easily see him moving to end if that's what they need down the road. He's versatile enough to play anywhere on the line.

The Saints made clear that they were willing to pay a big price to get better on the defensive line. They traded up to get Ellis, and they got better on the defensive line.

Previously on FanHouse:
It's a Good Idea to Trade Jammal Brown, but Dont Count on Him Going to the Rams
If the Saints are Dormant on Draft Day, Many Pundits will Be Embarrassed
Jeremy Shockey Searches for New Orleans Real Estate, Saints Might Have Moved On
FanHouse Mock Draft: N.O. Saints Select CB Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie No. 10

7. New Orleans Saints: Sedrick Ellis, DT, USC originally appeared on NFL FanHouse on Sat, 26 Apr 2008 15:47:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Linking Blogs | Comments

Giants Trade Jeremy Shockey to the Saints?

Dan — Fri, 25 Apr 2008 18:46:00 EST

Filed under: NY Giants, Saints, NFL Draft, New Orleans, New York

There has been a significant amount of speculation over the last few days about New York Giants tight end Jeremy Shockey and his status with the team. Several reports have indicated that the often out-spoken, tattoo bearing Oklahoma native had grown tired of his role in New York and wanted a trade, while others have continued to insist it's nothing more than mass speculation.

Somewhere amidst all the hoo-ha is the truth and it appears that someone may have finally found it. According to Pro Football Weekly, Shockey will soon call New Orleans home.

Maybe. Possibly. Could be.

PFW believes that Giants TE Jeremy Shockey has been traded to the Saints for multiple draft picks, including the team's second-rounder (No. 40). We'll try to confirm this as soon as we can.

For what it's worth, my cousin's third uncle twice removed heard from his step-daughter that some guy in a bar in Miami had a gardener who heard from his sister's boyfriend that Shockey's dentist said he was going to play for the Nigerian national football team next year.

There are also rumors floating around that Shockey will soon land on the moon.

Previously on FanHouse:
The Seahawks Have Unofficially Entered the Jeremy Shockey Sweepstakes
Jeremy Shockey Would Like a Role That Doesn't Involve Backing Up Kevin Boss
Jeremy Shockey OK With Trade Talk; Giants General Manager Won't Rule It Out
Jeremy Shockey Searches for New Real Estate, Saints Might Have Moved On
New York Post Refutes WWE Announcer's Claim That Jeremy Shockey Will Be Traded

Giants Trade Jeremy Shockey to the Saints? originally appeared on NFL FanHouse on Fri, 25 Apr 2008 18:46:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Linking Blogs | Comments

Saints Offer Jammal Brown to Rams as Part of Package to Get Glenn Dorsey

Michael David Smith — Fri, 25 Apr 2008 07:32:00 EST

Filed under: Rams, Saints, NFL Draft, New Orleans, St. Louis

The Saints want to trade up with the Rams and select LSU defensive tackle Glenn Dorsey with the second pick in tomorrow's draft, and they're offering one of their own veteran starters as part of a package: Offensive tackle Jammal Brown.

Pete Prisco of CBS Sports reports that the Saints are willing to deal Brown, who started 15 game in 2007 and made the Pro Bowl in 2006, if it means they can get Dorsey, a local hero whom the Saints believe would immediately upgrade their defense. The Saints would likely also trade their own first-round pick, No. 10 overall.

For the Rams, it's a tempting offer because their offensive line was a mess last season. Brown would step into the starting lineup immediately. But does it really make sense for the Saints to give up a solid starter and move into a spot where they'll have to pay Dorsey about $30 million guaranteed? If the Saints do it, Dorsey had better be as good in the NFL as he was at LSU.

Saints Offer Jammal Brown to Rams as Part of Package to Get Glenn Dorsey originally appeared on NFL FanHouse on Fri, 25 Apr 2008 07:32:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Linking Blogs | Comments

If the Saints Are Dormant on Draft Day, Many Pundits Will Be Embarrassed

Tom Mantzouranis — Mon, 21 Apr 2008 15:07:00 EST

Filed under: Saints, NFC South, NFL Draft, New Orleans

With the Giants for Jeremy Shockey. With the Eagles for Lito Sheppard. With the Rams, Chiefs, Patriots, and Ravens for the rights to draft Glenn Dorsey, Sedrick Ellis, Vernon Gholston, or some mystery guy. All trades the Saints have been heavily linked to this Saturday. If none of them happen, a lot of pundits, experts, and "insiders" will look silly.

The latest is Peter King, who claims that the Saints are "serious" about trading into the top four -- not just for Dorsey, but a Mr. Duplicitous whom the Saints supposedly love, but whose identity is unknown to King. I don't think that's Gholston, since Adam Schefter outed that connection already, or Ellis, which is obvious. I'm guessing it's Chris Long -- he's got the personality and style Sean Payton loves.

I've pondered the possibilities and their likelihoods given what I know about the current regime and roster (at the expense of work productivity), and here's what I think -- the team is trying the hardest to get Dorsey, but eventually will realize that it will cost too much without giving up Will Smith and will "settle" on moving up to the Patriots' or Ravens' spot for Ellis. I see a trade for Ellis being most likely and, in fact, very very likely.
If an Ellis deal doesn't work, however, the next plan would be to attempt to trade down with the Eagles for Sheppard. As for Shockey, that trade would be impossible if the Saints acquire Dorsey, as they'd be out of trade pick ammo. Otherwise, it's entirely possible, but I think more probable if they can recoup picks in a Sheppard deal.

I've got a headache. I'll be happy when this is all over.

If the Saints Are Dormant on Draft Day, Many Pundits Will Be Embarrassed originally appeared on NFL FanHouse on Mon, 21 Apr 2008 15:07:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Linking Blogs | Comments

Jeremy Shockey OK With Trade Talk; Giants General Manager Won't Rule It Out

Michael David Smith — Fri, 18 Apr 2008 11:40:00 EST

Filed under: NY Giants, Saints, New Orleans, New York

So will Giants tight end Jeremy Shockey be Saints tight end Jeremy Shockey by the time the NFL draft is over? That speculation still seems premature, but Giants general manager Jerry Reese isn't ready to say it won't happen, and the New York Daily News reports that Shockey "has made it very clear he wouldn't be upset if it happened."

Meanwhile, the Star-Ledger has pieces headlined "Reese confirms Shockey trade talk" and "Report: Shockey wants out," although in both cases the headlines overstate the substance of the articles.

There seem to be a few issues here. For starters, the Giants played their best football in the playoffs after Shockey was placed on injured reserve. That led to a lot of observers questioning whether Shockey was really all that important to the Giants' offense. If the offense struggles in 2008 with Shockey on the field, I can guarantee that fans and the media will say it's Shockey's fault.

Shockey has also indicated that he's not thrilled with his contract, and that he'd rather play somewhere closer to his home in Miami. And Giants coach Tom Coughlin has said in the past that he wishes Shockey would spend more time with the team during off-season conditioning.

Throw in the reported interest that the Saints have expressed, and it all adds up to sound a lot like he will be gone. The biggest deal in draft weekend may involve a player who's long out of college.

Jeremy Shockey OK With Trade Talk; Giants General Manager Won't Rule It Out originally appeared on NFL FanHouse on Fri, 18 Apr 2008 11:40:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Linking Blogs | Comments

Deuce McAllister Re-Structures His Deal to Remain a Saint

Tom Mantzouranis — Mon, 14 Apr 2008 20:38:00 EST

Filed under: Saints, NFC South, New Orleans

With the extended deadline for Deuce McAllister's $1 million roster bonus only a couple of days away, Deuce and the Saints agreed to a restructured deal to keep the rehabbing back in New Orleans at least for this year, according to Adam Schefter on NFL Network.

McAllister is recovering from his second ACL tear in three years, and with two damaged knees it was unclear whether 1) he'd be ready for training camp, and 2) he'd be effective. But, while exact terms aren't clear, it's believed that most of McAllister's salary has been converted to performance bonuses, meaning he can still make the $3.6 million he was supposed to make if he meets certain platforms.

This is a great deal for both sides. McAllister, a Gulf Coast native, remains with the only team he's ever played for (and a city in which he's deeply beloved). The Saints keep a high-character leader who's respected in the locker room, a guy they obviously wanted to find a way to keep, but they're protected in case McAllister gets hurt again.

He won't have to be the team's workhorse anymore -- with Pierre Thomas emerging McAllister will only have to carry 10 or so times a game. In this role, McAllister still has a chance to make an impact, but no matter what Saints fans are just thrilled to still have him around.

Deuce McAllister Re-Structures His Deal to Remain a Saint originally appeared on NFL FanHouse on Mon, 14 Apr 2008 20:38:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Linking Blogs | Comments

FanHouse Mock Draft: N.O. Saints Select CB Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie No. 10

Tom Mantzouranis — Fri, 04 Apr 2008 14:00:00 EST

Filed under: Saints, NFC South, New Orleans

With each pick of the FanHouse mock draft, we get into the head of an NFL general manager and let you know who he'll pick and why.

The Saints are in a tough spot at this point. They covet Glenn Dorsey and Sedrick Ellis most of all, but both are gone. Weakside linebacker Keith Rivers would be the final piece in a suddenly very good group of linebackers, but he's gone as well. The only other place where need and value come close at this spot is cornerback, and the Saints have their pick of all.

Though this is an odd draft in which four or so corners are considered the best of the bunch depending on who you ask, most believe it's either Leodis McKelvin or Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie. In fact, both are similar players. Both are big and fast (although Rodgers-Cromartie is slightly bigger and faster). Both are excellent athletes, very solid natural man corners, and playmakers. Both are also great return men and neither had to really play top competition in college.

The Saints take Rodgers-Cromartie for his upside. Even though he's got to develop his technique and bulk up a little more, his ceiling is far higher than McKelvin's. It's a slight worry that Antonio's cousin has sky-rocketed up draft boards this offseason (setting off the bust alarms), but he proved in an excellent Senior Bowl that he can game against top prospects and in the Combine that he's got the measurables as well. All of that, plus his bloodline and group of backers (which include Deion Sanders), put him over the top.

Rodgers-Cromartie will step in instantly as the team's top return man and will, while challenging for the starting job opposite Mike McKenzie, get immediate playing time at nickel while he continues to develop.

The Skinny:
Team Needs: DT, LB, CB, S
Player Selected: Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie, CB, Tennessee St.
Also Considered: Leodis McKelvin, CB, Troy; Derrick Harvey, DE, Florida

Previous Pick: No. 9 Sedrick Ellis, Bengals

Next Pick: No.11, Buffalo Bills

FanHouse Mock Draft: N.O. Saints Select CB Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie No. 10 originally appeared on NFL FanHouse on Fri, 04 Apr 2008 14:00:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Linking Blogs | Comments

Wildly Speculative Draft Rumor-Mongering: Saints Trading Down for Lito

Tom Mantzouranis — Fri, 04 Apr 2008 11:37:00 EST

Filed under: Eagles, Saints, NFC East, NFC South, New Orleans, Philadelphia

When the Saints are on the clock in the FanHouse mock draft, you'll see what could possibly happen should the team decide to keep their 10th pick. But that hasn't stopped me from speculating what might happen if the team, who could be in an awkward position depending on how the first nine picks fall, should decide to trade up.

But here's an idea with no substance because I have zero NFL sources and slightly less credibility (and if you astutely read the headline, you know where I'm going with this): trading down with the Eagles in exchange for Lito Sheppard.

After failing to swap Lito for a high-end receiver, word is that they're looking to move up in the first with an eye on one of three rising offensive linemen -- Chris Williams, Jeff Otah, or Branden Albert. Moving to 10 would guarantee the Eagles of getting one of them, with maybe all three available.

The Saints could still use help at corner and will get a surer (albeit more injury-prone) thing than any of the top corners in the draft, who all draw mixed opinions. Moving to 19 allows them to pick someone like linebacker Jerod Mayo, tackle Gosder Cherilus, tight end Dustin Keller or defensive end Philip Merling, all of whom would immediately contribute at a cheaper price.

The stupid, worthless, pea-brained draft value chart puts the rise from 19 to 10 on par with a mid-second round pick. Though that's short of the first-rounder the Eagles want, I don't see any other team offering more. Baseless? Yes. Far-fetched? Absolutely not.

Wildly Speculative Draft Rumor-Mongering: Saints Trading Down for Lito originally appeared on NFL FanHouse on Fri, 04 Apr 2008 11:37:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Linking Blogs | Comments