Evans had looked like the more likely cut because his dead-money hit was a bit smaller, plus he's older and more banged up. Now the parties are working on a restructure, but the outcome is far from certain. Keeping both guards seems to be a long shot.
Any interest in either? Best case is a plug-and-play solution to a glaring problem. Worst case is another Chris Snee situation. Personally, I'd pass unless one of them can be had with very little long-term commitment. Wouldn't mind seeing the Giants pay up for a year or two, while they coach up a young prospect from day two or three of the draft. Keeping Eli's pocket clean is worth a lot, assuming these guys can still do it.
Saints negotiating to keep Evans... - (
New Window )
They count on Brees' uncanny pocket presence and the misdirection and quick-passing in the offensive design to take care of outside pressure threats. Instead, they sink their resources into preventing interior pressure, and to opening throwing lanes for their vertically challenged passer. Their Tackles operate on 1 rule: Don't get beat inside. (That's how Charles Brown was able to look somewhat competent playing there.)
Saints Cap Hell - ( New Window )
A lot of their 2015 excess is in roster bonuses, which can be converted to signing bonuses to spread the pain over multiple years.
The kiss of death: "Evans has only missed two starts in his career."
Grubbs will be 31 in March
Clint Boling will be 26 at the start of the season - that is the guy to sign