Saints interested in re-signing Nick Easton, but they aren't his only option

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The New Orleans Saints completed an expected roster move earlier in February by releasing veteran guard Nick Easton, a decision that was chalked up to salary cap accounting (saving almost $6 million) as well as his injury history — Easton suffered three concussions during the 2020 season, with the last brain injury ending his year on injured reserve.

However, it’s possible he returns to New Orleans. NFL insider Josina Anderson reported that four teams have contacted Easton to gauge his interest, including the Saints, who would like to keep him in town at a lower price point (and after they’ve reached cap compliance). The other three teams’ identities are unclear, but Anderson added that Easton “is not in a huge hurry to sign” with anyone just yet.

It makes sense. He’ll likely take some time to fully evaluate his health and decide whether continuing to play is worth the damage to his body. Great players like Luke Kuechly have walked away from the game in recent years after sustaining too many concussions.

In the meantime: the Saints have a puzzle to put together along their interior offensive line. The left guard spot is settled, for now, with Andrus Peat but his own injury history is worth considering. Center Erik McCoy might be shifted over to put second-year pro Cesar Ruiz (last year’s right guard) into his natural position. Having a versatile backup like Easton, who has started games at all three positions, is valuable. If the Saints can’t bring him back, maybe they target a draft prospect like Quinn Meinerz to round out the group.