There were times in 2017 where the New Orleans Saints looked like the best team in the NFC. The Saints eight game winning streak in 2017 signaled that their plans to become a run-oriented team and play better defense was wildly affective. An 11-5 record and winning the NFC South was a final confirmation that asking less from Drew Brees was the best way to move forward.
And then the final play in Minnesota happened.
The Saints were eliminated from the NFL Playoffs in one of the most memorable plays in NFL Playoff history. A season that seemed kissed by destiny suddenly ended on the Vikings 61 yard miracle play.
It's tough to look at the big picture when you suffer such a painful loss. But take a look at where the Saints are moving into 2018 and the future looks pretty bright. The Saints have drafted well enough to get out of salary cap hell while also putting together a defense and running game that can win in the NFL. The team has also opened up another window to win a championship late in quarterback Drew Brees' career.
The next Drew Brees contract will determine just how long this window can last. During his last contract negotiation, Brees made it a point to get as much money as possible but then suffered the consequences it had on the pieces around him. Getting a deal done that works for both Brees and the team in 2018 will be the biggest key to how long this potential championship run can last.
Losing on a miracle play certainly hurts. But the Saints should get a few more cracks at this over the next few seasons.
Offensive Ranking: 2nd
Defensive Ranking: 17th
Key Free Agents:
Drew Brees - QB - Has publicly stated his plans to sign a new deal and return to the team. The question becomes the amount of money allocated under the cap to Brees at this point in his career given his age and experience.
Kenny Vaccaro - S - The former first round pick was putting together his best season before landing on injured reserve with wrist and groin injuries. Vaccaro's three interceptions in 2017 were a career high.
Alex Okafor - DE - A 4.5 sack season in 2017 that was cut short by injury. A torn Achilles suffered late in the season will certainly hurt his value on the open market.
Senio Kelemete - G - Stepped into the starting lineup for a second straight season and provided quality depth for the Saints offensive line. Has stepped in to start 17 games over the past two seasons.
Chase Daniel - QB - Has spent his career as a dependable backup quarterback around the NFL. Should continue to land solid contracts to play backup quarterback to an established veteran starter.
Potential Cuts/Restructures:
Nick Fairley - DT - A heart condition may ultimately cut Fairley's career short after he signed a multi-year contract in 2017. Fairley did not play a snap this past season. Cap savings: Undetermined due to nature of situation.
Coby Fleener - TE - Caught just 22 passes this past season. Finished the season on injured reserve with a concussion. Cap Savings: $3.2M