The Saints already signed Curtis Lofton this offseason, but could have used another linebacker because Martez Wilson is an unproven 2011 3rd round pick, Chris Chamberlain is a mediocre starter, and Jonathan Vilma is an aging, declining player who could be suspended for a large portion of next season and/or cut. Hawthorne was a great value at 19 million over 5 years with just 4.5 million guaranteed (3.8 signing bonus and 700K first year salary).I'm just wondering how the Saints are managing to fit all these deals under the cap. They were backed up against the cap, but they've still managed to resign Marques Colston, sign Ben Grubbs to replace Carl Nicks, and add 3 starters (Brodrick Bunkley, Curtis Lofton, and David Hawthorne) to their front 7, where they really needed help. I know they won't have Sean Payton, but as long as they have Drew Brees, they should once again be the favorites in the NFC South against after 13 wins last season.Grade: A
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April 12, 2012
