Saints May Pay Big Money for Guard, Lose Key Player

The New Orleans Saints have a busy offseason ahead. They might need to spend a lot to get a good guard named David Edwards. They could also lose a very important player, Demario Davis. The team needs to find ways to fix their money problems and make the team better.
By Newsroom | NFL, New Orleans |

The New Orleans Saints face a challenging offseason, with predictions suggesting they may be outbid for a key offensive lineman, David Edwards, while also navigating the potential departure of veteran leader Demario Davis. The team is grappling with a projected salary cap deficit, necessitating strategic maneuvers to address roster weaknesses, particularly on the offensive line.

Fox Sports predicts Saints will be outbid for free agency's best guard - 1

Current Roster and Financial Landscape

The Saints are preparing for the 2026 NFL free agency period with a significant number of players on expiring contracts. Reports indicate that 19 players are set to become free agents, including prominent figures like Cameron Jordan and Demario Davis. The team is also operating under a projected salary cap deficit, which requires creative solutions such as restructuring existing contracts to generate available funds.

Fox Sports predicts Saints will be outbid for free agency's best guard - 2

  • Contract Expirations: Nineteen Saints players have contracts expiring.

  • Salary Cap Concerns: The team is projected to be over the salary cap.

  • Restructuring Potential: Restructuring contracts for players like Chase Young, Alvin Kamara, Carl Granderson, Erik McCoy, and Cesar Ruiz could free up an estimated $41 million.

Offensive Line Reinforcement Target

A primary focus for the Saints this offseason appears to be the offensive line, a recognized area of weakness. ESPN has predicted that the Saints will pursue David Edwards, a guard currently with the Buffalo Bills, in free agency.

Read More: Cardinals Not Favored for Super Bowl, Quarterback Future Unclear

Fox Sports predicts Saints will be outbid for free agency's best guard - 3

  • Player Profile: David Edwards, turning 29, has a reputation for solid pass protection and run blocking. He has spent significant career snaps at left guard.

  • Projected Contract: ESPN's projection includes a multi-year deal with a substantial signing bonus, potentially impacting the cap in later years. The estimated structure involves a $1.215 million base salary and a $21 million signing bonus spread across several years.

  • Potential Cost: Fox Sports has speculated that the Saints might be outbid for Edwards, indicating a competitive market for his services. This suggests the team may need to commit significant resources to secure him.

Veteran Leadership and Potential Departures

The Saints are also facing uncertainty regarding key veteran players. Demario Davis, a five-time All-Pro linebacker, is among the notable free agents.

Fox Sports predicts Saints will be outbid for free agency's best guard - 4

  • Age and Performance: Despite his age, Davis has shown active play. He has indicated an intention to play again and explore free agency.

  • External Prediction: Fox Sports reporter Greg Auman has predicted that Davis will leave the Saints to join the Chicago Bears, where he would reunite with former coach Dennis Allen. The reasoning behind the Bears' contention is not explicitly detailed, but the connection to Allen is noted.

  • Other Veterans: Defensive end Cameron Jordan, who has spent his entire career with the Saints, is also a prominent free agent.

Team Strategy and Market Position

The Saints' approach to free agency has sometimes involved less aggressive spending on lower-tier players.

Read More: Commanders Hire New Coaches to Change Offense and Defense

  • Undrafted Free Agents: Reports from June 2025 indicated that the Saints offered less guaranteed money to undrafted free agents compared to other teams, potentially suggesting a less competitive pursuit in that segment of the market.

Expert Insights

  • "If that pattern follows, here are some deals that could be touched…" - NOLA.com on potential contract restructures.

  • "Solak's big prediction for the Saints offseason would turn one of their biggest weaknesses into an area of strength: The Saints will sign ex-Bills guard David Edwards to a big deal, as he's the lone exciting player who could be available in the guard market." - ESPN's Ben Solak via SaintsWire.

  • "In a recent predictive article from Fox Sports NFC South reporter Greg Auman, he ranked Davis as the No. 60 free agent in this class, and he also had the veteran leaving the Saints to join his former coach, Dennis Allen, with the Chicago Bears." - SaintsWire referencing Fox Sports.

Analysis and Outlook

The New Orleans Saints are entering a critical offseason. The need to bolster the offensive line, specifically at guard with a player like David Edwards, is clear. However, the team's financial standing and the potential for other teams to offer more lucrative deals present a significant hurdle. Concurrently, the potential loss of experienced leaders like Demario Davis and Cameron Jordan could impact team dynamics. The team's ability to navigate these challenges through contract restructures and strategic free agent acquisitions will be crucial for their upcoming season.

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Read More: Commanders Name New Coordinators David Blough and Daronte Jones

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Will the Saints get David Edwards?
Experts think the Saints want David Edwards, a guard. But other teams might offer him more money, so it's not sure.
Q: Will Demario Davis leave the Saints?
Some reports say Demario Davis, a good player, might leave the Saints. He could join the Chicago Bears.
Q: Why do the Saints have money problems?
The team has many players whose contracts are ending. They also need to spend money to fix the team, especially the offensive line.