The New Orleans Saints have one of the worst salary-cap situations in the NFL, both in 2024 and in future years. Even after restructuring multiple contracts, the Saints are reportedly trying to part ways with some of their top defenders to be compliant with the NFL salary cap.
New Orleans has already shaved tens of millions of dollars off its cap obligations for the 2024 season. However, ahead of the new league year on March 13, the Saints front office is still working desperately to officially get under the NFL salary cap.
- New Orleans Saints cap space 2024: -$10.912 million
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Addressing their financial issues in 2024 is also just a short-term fix. For every contract New Orleans restructures this year, it leaves them with more on the hook for future seasons. As of March 11, the team is projected to be $60 million over the cap in 2025. So, the club is exploring ways to address both issues.
According to Jason La Canfora of The Washington Post, the Saints are “pushing to find a trade partner” for linebacker Demario Davis and cornerback Marshon Lattimore.
- Demario Davis stats 2023: 121 total tackles, 12 tackles for loss, 11 QB hits, 6.5 sacks
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Davis, entering his age-36 season, was phenomenal last year. He earned All-Pro honors for the fifth consecutive year and received his second Pro Bowl selection. Even at his age, Davis is still widely regarded as one of the best off-ball linebackers in the NFL.
- Marshon Lattimore stats 2023: 8 pass deflections, 1 interception in 10 games
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Lattimore, heading into his age-30 season, hasn’t made the Pro Bowl since he earned three consecutive appearances from 2019-’21. Over the last two seasons, the 6-foot cornerback has played in 17 combined games, allowing 527 receiving yards on 48 receptions.
A post-June trade of Davis would generate $12 million in cap savings, per OverTheCap.com, while the same designation with Lattimore would create $3.968 million in cap room. Considering the lack of high-end linebackers in the 2024 NFL Draft, Davis could generate significant interest on the trade market.
