When discussing the blockbuster trade of Jimmy Graham this week, New Orleans Saints general manager Mickey Loomis cited a desire to upgrade the defense.
One of the biggest needs on that defense resides at the corner position.
With the market dwindling, New Orleans landed former Patriots corner Brandon Browner -- whose contract option New England declined.
The team announced it had agreed to a contract with Browner on Thursday. NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport reported the deal is for three years and roughly $18 million.
One reason the Saints looked to splurge on a 30-year-old corner is the presence of lanky receivers Julio Jones, Roddy White, Kelvin Benjamin, Vincent Jackson and Mike Evans residing in the NFC South. Browner might not have the foot speed to stick with the likes of Jones, but at 6-foot-4 he would help immensely in the red zone.
Another reason the Saints added Browner, per Rapoport, is that the veteran would help bring a needed presence to a locker room that has seen a drain on leadership the last few seasons.
We believe the one reason the Patriots declined to bring back Browner even though they are thin at the position is that Bill Belichick simply found the corner's play lacking.
Still, with a shrinking defensive back market and the Saints' glaring need for size at the position, a union in the Big Easy makes sense for both parties.
The latest Around The NFL Podcast breaks down DeMarco Murray's move to the Eagles and breaks down which teams have been wise in free agency. Find more Around The NFL content on NFL NOW.
