Saints' roster called 'impressive' by NFL executive after free agency spending

New Orleans has made key additions and subtractions to field a competitive team in the NFC South.

Apr. 5, 2026 at 4:40pm

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The New Orleans Saints have been praised by an anonymous NFL executive for their roster construction following their free agent decisions, both in terms of additions and subtractions. While the losses of veteran leaders like Demario Davis and Alontae Taylor were noted as tough, the executive acknowledged the Saints are not trying to build around 30-year-olds and are instead focused on younger talent like running back Travis Etienne Jr. and offensive lineman David Edwards.

Why it matters

The Saints have struggled with salary cap issues in recent years, but this offseason's moves suggest they are now in a healthier financial position and are building a roster that can compete in the NFC South. The praise from an NFL executive indicates the Saints' rebuild is on the right track.

The details

The Saints have made several key additions and subtractions this offseason as they look to field a competitive roster. They lost veteran leaders like linebacker Demario Davis and cornerback Alontae Taylor, but the NFL executive acknowledged these moves make sense as the team is not trying to build around 30-year-olds. Instead, the Saints have added young talent like running back Travis Etienne Jr. and offensive lineman David Edwards, who the executive said has 'juice' and should be a valuable weapon for the offense.

  • The Saints' free agency decisions were made in the 2026 offseason.

The players

Demario Davis

A veteran linebacker who was a key leader on the Saints' defense.

Alontae Taylor

A young cornerback who was a promising player on the Saints' defense.

Travis Etienne Jr.

A running back the Saints added this offseason who the NFL executive praised as a 'fast guy who has juice on that turf'.

David Edwards

An offensive lineman the Saints added this offseason who the NFL executive said should help solidify their offensive line.

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What’s next

The Saints will look to continue building their roster through the 2026 NFL Draft as they aim to field a competitive team in the NFC South.

The takeaway

The Saints' offseason moves have earned praise from an NFL executive, suggesting their rebuild is on the right track. While they've had to make some tough decisions in subtracting veteran leaders, the Saints appear focused on building a younger, more sustainable roster that can compete in the NFC South.