New Orleans Saints make major change to Marshon Lattimore contract
The New Orleans Saints restructured cornerback Marshon Lattimore’s contract in order to help create cap space heading into the offseason, according to NFL Network’s Ian Rapaport. The deal converts his base salary into a signing bonus and create $18.45 million in space, getting the team close to the threshold it needs.
New Orleans has faced the same issue repeatedly over recent seasons, entering the offseason above the NFL’s salary cap with a need to find creative ways to drop below the number and sign free agents on a budget. Last season, the team released several players in addition to making restructured contracts like the one Marshon Lattimore received.
According to Spotrac.com, the Saints are still an estimated $13.9 million over the salary cap and $6.6 million over with their top 51 contracts. More restructured deals, or releases, will take place as they attempt to drop under the $206 million mark including their $13 million in dead space.
Lattimore is a four-time Pro Bowler and won the 2017 Defensive Rookie of the Year award. He has 298 tackles in five seasons with the Saints and adds 13 career interceptions. In addition Lattimore has forced five fumbles and recovered five fumbles.
Michael Thomas returns with Saints
After missing the 2021 season with an injury, New Orleans Saints wide receiver Michael Thomas is back with the team, according to NFL Network’s Ian Rapaport. During an on-air appearance he discussed how things have changed and why the Saints will not trade their star this offseason.
“It seems the curiosity and saga surrounding Michael Thomas, the Saints standout receiver, is coming to a close in a positive way for all parties,” said Rapaport. “I’m told they are not expected to trade him and they want him back. So expect Michael Thomas back with the New Orleans Saints – of course new coach Dennis Allen – for the 2022 season.”
Among the biggest storylines of the Saints disappointing 2021 season, Michael Thomas and his injury easily became the most controversial. After disputes between the two parties throughout the offseason, he missed the entire season and remains out after delayed surgery.
In his career, Thomas has 510 receptions for 5,950 yards and 32 touchdowns in 70 games. He reportedly expressed interest in a trade last season, but it remains unclear how he views his future with a new quarterback room and new coaching staff arriving since his last game action.