The New Orleans Saints may target any one of these three players in free agency as they search for an affordable wide receiver.
Although they most likely lack the funds to sign a top star, the New Orleans Saints could use some assistance at wide out. In order to stay under the salary cap, the organization is currently reworking every deal in order to avoid having to pay top dollar for a player like Mike Evans. Fortunately, they do not require the five-time Pro Bowler’s kind of game-changing talent. Exclusive rights free agent Rashid Shaheed is a solid deep threat, while Chris Olave is more than capable of leading the passing assault.
The Saints require an additional wide receiver to complement their roster. Last season, Michael Thomas was expected to play that position, but it’s obvious that injuries have had a negative impact on the former All-Pro. Even if he isn’t officially a free agent, it’s difficult to imagine a scenario in which the costly and dissatisfied wideout is still with the team in 2024. Because Dennis Allen needs to lead the Saints to the postseason if he hopes to keep his job, they should invest in a supporting cast member who can help Derek Carr reach his full potential.
Although Evans is above the Saints’ budget and players such as Tee Higgins and Michael Pittman will be eligible for the franchise tag, it may be necessary for New Orleans to go elsewhere for their next wide receiver. Thankfully, there are several dependable, reasonably priced solutions available that ought to enhance the passing attack.
The Saints’ Top 3 Choices for Wide Receivers in the Free Agent Class
Boyd Tyler
Although Tyler Boyd hasn’t played as much as Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins lately, you can’t hold him responsible for the Bengals offense’s lackluster performance. Even while the slot receiver may not be as good as he once was, he can still be a reliable second or third option in a passing attack. He has had many seasons with 1,000 yards or more. Boyd is excellent at getting open fast in the vicinity of the line of scrimmage, and Carr lacked a dependable chain-mover in the previous season. The Saints will have a wide receiver depth chart that can do a little bit of everything with Olave covering the intermediate section of the field, Shaheed stretching defenses vertically, and Boyd taking care of the short targets.
Jennings, Jauan
The Saints may be the team to take a chance on wide receiver Jauan Jennings to continue his impressive performance in a bigger sample size. He has been extremely effective in a limited capacity. Every time he touches the ball, the former seventh-round pick has been nothing short of spectacular, even buried in San Francisco’s star-studded offense. The Tennessee product has steady route running, explosiveness on gadget plays, and after-the-catch ability. Now that Klint Kubiak, a former offensive passing game expert for the 49ers, is in charge, he might persuade the Saints to take a chance on Jennings.
Kenneth Bourne
Midway through the 2023 season, dynamic playmaker Kendrick Bourne tore his ACL, but new reports suggest he is healing well and should be ready for the start of the regular season. Before getting hurt, the seven-year veteran—who was essentially the only bright spot in New England’s offense—was on track to have his greatest season to date. Since he is just starting his 29th season, he should have a few more seasons left in him and probably won’t need a really large contract. Although he won’t be the Saints’ best wide receiver, he will increase the difficulty of stopping this offense.
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