With moves, the Saints can open some major cap space to sign some excellent free agents, especially one on the defensive line.
Unlike previous years, the New Orleans Saints have real flexibility in free agency. With around $150 million in cap space projected for next season, the Saints can maneuver money so that cap space next year can be used this season. Combining that with recent developments that have the Saints spending a minimum amount in free agency, they are going to be major buyers this offseason, but they need to be careful.
Obviously, signing the best players will completely upgrade the roster, but the Saints should still be careful with their money. If they identify a player they know will bring winning to this team, do it; but if there is hesitancy, that's where issues arise.
This free agency may not be the best, but for the Saints' positional needs, they can find long-term answers with ease, but they will take major financial investments. One player in particular stands out as a game-changing addition for the Saints.
EDGE Jaelan Phillips
The Saints' signing of Chase Young was an excellent move, and without him, the pass rush would have been a major issue. Young was able to hide many of the Saints' pass rush struggles, but without him, it's ugly. Carl Granderson and Cam Jordan are good EDGEs on the roster, but there was pass rush inconsistencies. Also, when the pass rush depth was relied upon, it was much worse, and the Saints could not get to the QB. So, what's the best way to fix this?
The defensive line still needs another starting EDGE opposite Young to be relied upon, and in the free-agent market, there is a clear option: Jaelan Phillips.
One of the best edge rushers available, Phillips is an excellent run defender, a dynamic pass rusher who excels at generating pressure, and can play OLB. He is 26, and with previous sack production, he is going to be a top free agent, potentially getting around $20-55 million a year.
Even though he had some prior injury concerns, there were no signs of slowing down after the 2025 injury. Phillips is a high-level long-term option, and if Cam Jordan and Carl Granderson are both back, the Saints' defensive line could be excellent in 2026. Of course, some more investment in the draft would be the perfect final touch, but a long-term duo of Young and Phillips could be one of the best in the NFL. It's going to be expensive, but if the Saints want to take the next step, Phillips would be the addition to make it happen.