The New Orleans Saints are starting to unload contracts heading to the 2021 season and are parting ways with wide receiver Emmanuel Sanders after a one-year stint with the team, per ESPN‘s Adam Schefter.
Sanders previously inked a two-year, $16 million contract with the Saints prior to the 2020 NFL season. Due to the extended absence of WR1 Michael Thomas caused by encountering a handful of injuries, Sanders managed to see more action on the field.
He produced 726 receiving yards on 61 receptions and five touchdowns in 14 games last season. However, his production wasn't enough as the Saints still collapsed in the playoffs even after ending the regular season with a 12-4 record.
This move was necessary to be made as the Saints are well over the salary cap, which was officially lowered down to $182.5 million for next season. In response to the situation, the team is releasing players and reconstructing several contracts in order for them to reach cap compliance. Saints linebacker Kwon Alexander is also expected to get the boot in the coming days to free up cap, according to NFL Network's Ian Rapoport.
With his release, the Saints are hoping that Michael Thomas will remain healthy next season along with the emergence of a young wideout in Tre'Quan Smith. They are also poised to acquire cheap deals in free agency and land promising talents in the draft in order to remain in contention upon entering the post-Drew Brees era.
Despite being cut, many teams are still expected to go after Emmanuel Sander's services due to the veteran presence and invaluable experience that he brings to the table.
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