The New Orleans Saints will have some struggles when it comes to filling out their roster this offseason. Given how far they are over the salary cap, at about $74 million, they will likely have to release some key veterans to become compliant with the league’s salary cap.
New Orleans has spent years kicking their salary issues down the line and it has finally caught up to them. With Sean Payton stepping down as head coach, things could get tough for the team in 2022.
One position that they could use some help at is the running back spot. If they clear enough funds, one player that they could target in free agency is Melvin Gordon.
Gordon had a strong 2021 season with the Denver Broncos, his second in the Mile High City. He split time with dynamic rookie Javonte Williams, receiving 203 carries and turning them into 918 yards and eight touchdowns on the ground. He also added 28 receptions for 213 yards and another two scores.
His decision to hold out at the end of his tenure with the Los Angeles Chargers didn’t end up helping him as much as he had hoped it would, but he put that behind him with the Broncos. He now has two more strong seasons of tape and would be a solid addition to any backfield looking to create a one-two punch.
What makes Gordon so appealing is that he is capable of handling an every-down role should the need arise. In New Orleans, that could ultimately be what is needed. The team is hoping that Alvin Kamara is available for the season, but he is in some legal trouble after getting into an altercation in Las Vegas during the Pro Bowl.
If Kamara is unable to go, the Saints do not currently have a player to turn to as their starting running back. Mark Ingram II is a free agent again after the team acquired him midseason in a trade from the Houston Texans.
Gordon would be a great insurance policy for the Saints if they can afford him. He would provide another option on early downs so that Kamara isn’t run into the ground in a full-time role, filling the spot Ingram had thrived in previously.
