Players Who the Saints Should Keep or CUT After the Season
By Bob Rose
Oct 2, 2016; San Diego, CA, USA; New Orleans Saints defensive end Darryl Tapp (55) rushes as San Diego Chargers offensive guard D.J. Fluker (76) blocks during the second half of the game at Qualcomm Stadium. New Orleans won 35-34. Mandatory Credit: Orlando Ramirez-USA TODAY Sports
Darryl Tapp, Defensive End / Edge Rusher
Tapp has played pretty well for the Saints this season. The 11-year veteran has brought a lot of energetic play to the defensive line.
But the fact is, he was not meant to play this much, merely add depth.
It was necessary however due to the season ending injury to Hau’oli Kikaha back during Mini-Camp in June; as well as the inconsistent play of Kasim Edebali and the sub-par play of Paul Kruger — who has played much better of late.
At this stage of his career, Tapp should really be only counted on as a situational or role player. Given New Orleans’ lack of talented depth at the position, it certainly would be worth bringing Tapp back at a cheaper contract.
However, the Saints can do better by getting younger and better at the edge rusher position, and bringing back the 34-year old won’t fit those plans for the future of this defense.