re: Brees interview on WWL AM tonight (reax: :reddman:)

Expect to hear Loomis on WWL within a week...

Summary (paraphrased, of course) for those who missed it-

Brees opens discussing his charity work and ongoing fundraising, then on to business.

Deke: Why no deal done yet?

Brees: I'm frustrated, I don't understand why a deal hasn't been done yet. I see a clear lack of communication at times, but I maintain that I'm committed to working towards a long term deal.



Deke: Is there one road block to a deal or many hurdles?

Brees: It's been a tough offseason with bounties, appeals, etc, but I know that contract renogation is a long process. Still, I feel that my record over past six years has shown that I am proven and I want a long term deal.



Deke: What specifically are you seeking that Saints aren't offering?

Brees: I'm seeking an appropriate, not unreasonable number. The lack of communication has been frustrating and disappointing. We have reached out numerous times with no response.



Deke: Earlier, Tom Benson mentioend that a deal "was close". Was that true?

Brees: The numbers reported by ESPN were not true. We prefer to not negotiate through the media. I don't think we were/are as close as it was reported. We are getting close to the beginning of the season and there should be a greater sense of urgency that I'm not seeing.



Deke: What would Loomis say about this deal not getting done?

Brees: I can't speak for Loomis. It's been a very abnormal offseason and the bounty mess has greatly impacted our normal actions. Still, there should be a greater sense of urgency to get a deal done so I can fulfill the committment I have to my team.



Deke: Do you regret not signing last year or not getting a deal done last offseason?

Brees: No, I took a gamble and we got some great things done on the field. Now, it's time to get a deal done.



Deke: Is it hard not being with the team and not being involved in the offseason program?

Brees: Yes, it's tough not being with the team. However, there are a lot of veteran players to help carry the load. But yes, I want to be with the team.



Deke: Many former GMs and talking heads in the sports media are puzzled that a deal hasn't been done. Can you comment?

Brees: Yes, as you look around the league, most QBs have their contract renewed well in advance (at least a year or two ahead of time) but not here. The opportunity was there prior to 2010 and 2011 but that's gone now. All we can do now is get this done.



Deke: The deal you're seeking- can the Saints do this and keep the team getting talent and winning games through trades, FA signings?

Brees: Absolutely. We can. Our position is very reasonable and fair and while I won't discuss specific numbers, it is fair. I fulfilled my end of the bargain and played out my contract without ever asking for more money. However, this negotation is all part of the process of playing professional football. I just wish the FO would have a greater sense of urgency. I want to fulfill my committment to the city of New Orleans. I want to finish my career here.



Deke: With regards to your wife and family, what's Mrs Brees's take on this?

Brees: [laughs] Well, my wife is 6 months pregnant so she has her hands full with that. She is also involved in our foundation. We have had some conversations about a new deal, but she's tied up with other things.



Deke: Two months from now, will you sign your Franchise Tender?

Brees: I don't even want to think about that right now. I'm committed to a long term deal and hopefully we can accomplish that.



Deke: Is there a time frame that it will hurt you if you don't get a deal done?

Brees: I will be as prepared as I can possibly be for whatever happens. If I miss OTA's, practices, etc, I will do everything I can to be prepared. I have a plan and will execute it.



Deke: Saints predicted to have a very successful team. Is it a contender without #9 under center?

Brees: Saints are a great team and a great organization. My goal is to be a part of it.



Deke: What would you say to fans who are getting antsy and nervous about getting a deal done?

Brees: I love the fans and we know how much this offseason has affected us all but we all have to stick together.



Deke: Any message to the Saints organization?

Brees: I'm sure we'll be in contact soon. I hope.

quote:

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This interview better wake ML the frick up.

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Its been 2 years, I doubt this will change much

I've been behind Loomis to make a smart financial move but you don't really play hardball with the best player the organization has ever had.

I don't think it's Loomis.

I think Evsns is right; it's Benson.

Loomis works for Benson. Benson ultimately makes the final choices.

Your move, Tom. Way too many times in the past, you were ignorant and let good players leave that wanted to stay. Here's your chance to show that you've FINALLY learned from that.

quote:

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Brees: Absolutely. We can. Our position is very reasonable and fair and while I won't discuss specific numbers, it is fair. I fulfilled my end of the bargain and played out my contract without ever asking for more money. However, this negotation is all part of the process of playing professional football. I just wish the FO would have a greater sense of urgency. I want to fulfill my committment to the city of New Orleans. I want to finish my career here.

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I know its paraphrased, but that paragraph is damned depressing.

If it really is Tom Benson not paying him, how the hell did he make so much money in business. If you want top tier talent, you gotta pay top tier talent.