Saints Predicted to Retain Veteran LB Despite Free Agency Speculation

New Orleans Saints face key free agency decisions this offseason.

Published on Mar. 5, 2026

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The New Orleans Saints have several key defensive players hitting free agency this offseason, including veteran linebacker Demario Davis. Despite speculation that Davis could draw interest from teams like the Denver Broncos and Chicago Bears, a report predicts the Saints will be able to retain the 8-year veteran and maintain stability in their defense.

Why it matters

Keeping Davis would be crucial for the Saints as they look to build on a strong defensive season. His veteran leadership and production in the middle of the field are seen as important factors for the Saints' defensive unit.

The details

The Saints are facing a pivotal offseason with several key free agents, including Davis and defensive end Cameron Jordan. While the Broncos and Bears have been mentioned as potential suitors for Davis, the Saints are expected to prioritize re-signing him if the price is right. Losing Davis could lead to a significant drop-off for the Saints' defense, which played well last season.

  • Davis has been with the Saints for 8 seasons.

The players

Demario Davis

A veteran linebacker who has played for the Saints for the past 8 seasons and is set to hit free agency this offseason.

Sean Payton

The former head coach of the Saints who is now the head coach of the Denver Broncos.

Dennis Allen

The current defensive coordinator for the Saints.

Cameron Jordan

A veteran defensive end for the Saints who is also set to hit free agency this offseason.

Danny Stutsman

A second-year linebacker for the Saints who would be in line for more playing time if Davis were to leave.

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What they’re saying

“Could the Denver Broncos, fresh off an AFC championship game appearance, be a fit? Former Saints coach Sean Payton, now in Denver, has listed linebacker as a need, but the Broncos typically have skewed younger as they've fleshed out the roster.”

— Matthew Paras, NOLA.com reporter (NOLA.com)

“If Davis leaves, second-year linebacker Danny Stutsman would be in line to see more playing time — but there's a sense the Saints would miss Davis' veteran presence. And, as well as New Orleans' defense played last season, would the unit see a significant drop-off without Davis?”

— Matthew Paras, NOLA.com reporter (NOLA.com)

What’s next

The Saints will need to negotiate a new contract with Demario Davis before the start of free agency in order to retain the veteran linebacker.

The takeaway

Keeping Demario Davis is a priority for the Saints this offseason as they look to maintain stability and leadership on their defense. While there may be interest from other teams, the Saints are expected to make re-signing Davis a top focus in order to build on their strong defensive performance from last season.