Carl Nicks is expected to leave NO through FA

[jtnc]

Drew Brees is a free agent, but we know he’s not going anywhere this offseason.

So the Saints essentially have two options. They can strike a deal quickly with Brees or they can place the franchise tag on him to retain his rights while continuing to work on a long-term deal, like the Colts did with Peyton Manning last year.

Option No. 2 includes a hidden cost. The Saints won’t have the option to use their franchise tag elsewhere, and they have at least two other great candidates.

Guard Carl Nicks and wide receiver Marques Colston are both headed for free agency. Florio has explained previously Colston won’t take a hometown discount.

Nicks will be especially difficult to keep on a long-term deal because the Saints have already paid huge money for Jahri Evans and Nicks is viewed as one of the very best guards in football. Retaining Nicks on a one-year deal would be ideal, but it won’t be possible unless Brees’ contract is worked out quickly.

Nicks is “expected to leave” town, according to ESPN’s Adam Schefter.

This gives Brees greater leverage in negotiations, but it also puts him in a tricky spot. The Saints can’t handle their other important free agent business and build the best team around Brees until they get his contract done.

http://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2012/01/15/nicks-expected-to-leave-new-orleans-in-free-agency/

Colston and Nicks? Plus Brees' is gonna milk them for at least 100 mill, this season is our season

[cavic7585]

they will have a first round pick to address one of those needs....

[Mr. Scot]

I'd take Nicks before I'd take Colston.

[HominyISharmonious]

Sign Brees quick, let Colston walk, tag Nicks.

[Mr. Scot]

they will have a first round pick to address one of those needs....

You might wanna check on that.

[jtnc]

Sign Brees quick, let Colston walk, tag Nicks.

You have to tag Brees no matter what. Just can't open the possibility of him leaving.

[DaCityKats]

I'd take Nicks before I'd take Colston.

i wouldnt.

[Ja Rhule]

they will have a first round pick to address one of those needs....

Saints don't have 1st round pick.

[chknwing2]

carolina does not have the $$ to sign either

[Kakarot]

I just hope they lose Colston out of all this. Dude is a great WR

[HominyISharmonious]

You have to tag Brees no matter what. Just can't open the possibility of him leaving.

IDK Brees loves New Orleans, so does his wife. Where's he going to go, Washington?? I 'd call his bluff.

[Mr. Scot]

i wouldnt.

Build from the foundations.

Having a great QB / WR combo doesn't mean much if you can't keep the opposing team off your QB.

(and that's not even mentioning the run game)

[HominyISharmonious]

Colston can be replaced.

[cavic7585]

I know the saints dont have a first round pick. I was being Sarcastic.