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New Orleans Saints set to hit free agency in 2019

24 players could be back in black and gold next season, but the reality is the vast majority won’t be.

By John J. Hendrix
NFL: NFC Championship Game-Los Angeles Rams at New Orleans Saints John David Mercer-USA TODAY Sports

As the New Orleans Saints and their fans try to move on (but certainly never forget) the way the 2018 season ended, some are ready to look towards the new year. The team will look to stay a contender in 2019, and is currently estimated to have around $19.3 million in space to work with according to Over the Cap. Here’s a look at the impending free agents for the black and gold.

Exclusive Rights Free Agents (5)

Exclusive Rights Free Agents (ERFA) – Player is not under contract, and has not reached three years of experience. If the team makes said player an offer at the three-year veteran minimum, the player has a ‘take it or leave it’ option. There is no negotiation with other teams.

  • Zach Wood, LS (26)
  • Vince Biegel, LB (26)
  • Cameron Tom, OL (24)
  • Justin Hardee, DB (25)
  • Rickey Jefferson, S (25)

Restricted Free Agents (4)

Restricted Free Agent (RFA) – Player has only three years of experience, and would not have a contract with his current team. Any team would have the option to make a contract offer, but the team (Saints) would be able to match/retain that player with said offer.

  • Daniel Lasco, RB (27)
  • Ken Crawley, CB (26)
  • Tommylee Lewis, WR (27)
  • Wil Lutz, K (25)

Unrestricted Free Agents (15)

Unrestricted Free Agent (UFA) – Player is free to sign with any team. He would not have a contract with his current team. You would need to play four years, or get cut, to be in this category.

  • Mark Ingram, RB (30)
  • Manti Te’o, LB (28)
  • Benjamin Watson, TE (39) *Will be retiring
  • Michael Hoomanawanui, TE (31)
  • Craig Robertson, LB (31)
  • Chris Banjo, S (29)
  • Dez Bryant, WR (31)
  • Jermon Bushrod, OL (35)
  • Jay Bromley, DL (27)
  • Michael Ola, OL (31)
  • Josh LeRibeus, OL (30)
  • P.J. Williams, CB (26)
  • Tyeler Davison, DT (27)
  • Teddy Bridgewater, QB (27)
  • Alex Okafor, DE (28) *Has the option to become a free agent based on contract clause.

Other players added late in the season, like Derek Newton, Josh Robinson, and Tyrunn Walker, should also be unrestricted free agents.

Which players do you see the Saints re-signing?

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