Saints Who Need to Play Well in 2016 to Be Back in 2017

Nov 29, 2015; Houston, TX, USA; New Orleans quarterback Drew Brees (9) calls an audible against the Houston Texans during the game at NRG Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports

It’s a long way to go until the 2017 season, much less the start of the upcoming 2016 season; but some members of the New Orleans Saints are trying to not only secure a roster spot for the rest of this year; but also a future with the team beyond that, as well.

Two names that immediately jump out who both will be a priority is quarterback Drew Brees and center Max Unger, who are in the last year of their contracts.

The team wisely picked up safety Kenny Vaccaro’s fifth-year option for next year and extended left tackle Terron Armstead just this past week, to keep them off the market.

While fans may be sweating the Brees situation, the team would be better to tackle his new contract with the cap space they’ll have available next year — although the $30 million dollar hit for this season does sting a bit.

But Brees and Unger most likely won’t have to worry about getting paid if the Saints want them around; and their roster spots aren’t in any true jeopardy, which is more than you could say for others on the roster.

It’s with that in mind, that this evening we’re taking a quick look at just a few of the Saints besides Brees and Unger, who will be playing in 2016 for a chance to earn a new contract with the team (or another NFL team) in 2017.

Starting with this really “BIG” guy on the D-Line…..

Next: Ramp Up