Saints should keep Winston, improve offensive weapons

Remember the New Orleans Saints game this past season at Tampa Bay, that 9-0 defensive masterpiece won by the Saints?

The greatest quarterback ever, Tom Brady, was blanked. The reason Tampa Bay could score at all was clear; Brady lost his two top receivers and top running back Leonard Fournette to injury during the game.

I know the Saints defense had plenty to do with Brady’s struggles but my point is, no matter which quarterback New Orleasn chooses to be their starter next season, it won’t matter if the team does not improve it’s skill position options.

It is my belief that the Black and Gold need to re-sign quarterback Jameis Winston, keep their draft picks and select a wide receiver with their first choice.

The Saints desperately need more weapons on offense. Star wide receiver Michael Thomas should be back but at least two more receiving standouts are needed. I also believe they need upgrades at tight end, running back (with the Alvin Kamara’s legal issue) and another offensive tackle.

With so many needs, New Orleans cannot afford to give up multiple draft picks and spend the additional money for a so-called franchise quarterback.

Look at the price tags in picks alone, much less the salary, that’s comes with acquiring a proven star signal caller.

Deshaun Watson, the troubled Texans quarterback anyone would want based on pure talent but few will chase due to his off-the-field drama, is still extremely expensive. Houston is asking for at least two first round picks and a starting player.

Russell Wilson of the Seahawks is an obvious take but not realistic. Seattle wants two # 1’s and a third rounder at minimum.

Aaron Rodgers? You’ll pay through the nose if you hope to acquire the reigning MVP from Green Bay.

Jimmy Garoppolo and Kirk Cousins marginally improve the position at best but I think both may be lateral moves that still cost you big time in picks, players and salary.

Keep Winston and give him more help.

There are the first round rated receivers:

Garrett Wilson, 5-11, 186, 4.45, Ohio St.
Chris Olave, 6-0, 182, 4.45, Ohio St.
Treylon Burks, 6-3, 230, 4.48, Arkansas
Drake London, 6-5, 212, 4.52, USC
Jahan Dotson, 5-11, 176, 4.45, Penn St.
Jameson Williams, 6-2, 190, 4.45, Alabama***

*** Wiliams may be the best of the bunch but he suffered a torn ACL in the Sugar Bowl.

An offensive tackle would help in the second round if they lose left tackle Terron Armstead, the oft-injured star who will receive a big pay day this offseason, in free agency. Keep an eye on Northern Iowa’s Trevor Penning (6-7, 330), a huge and very imposing prospect with great length and good technique.