The New Orleans Saints are keeping their options open when it comes to the defensive side of free agency. They have remained relatively quit during the offseason but they have major needs to address on defense. They gave up an NFL-record 440.1 yards per game last season and are in need of a defensive rebuild. After hiring Rob Ryan to run the unit, the Saints have been making headlines trying to recruit Nnamdi Asomugha to Nola. While the cornerback explores his options, the Saints are setting themselves up with a backup plan, bringing in former-Saint, Tracy Porter, for a visit.
Porter is considered the hero of Super Bowl XLIV. He intercepted a pass from Peyton Manning, returning it for a touchdown and sealing the Saints fate of being champions. The 26-year old spent last season with the Denver Broncos, signed to a $4 million, one-year contract. He suffered a series of injuries that caused him to only make four starts for the team. The Broncos decided not to re-sign him
Porter started his career in with the Saints after they drafted him in the second round back in 2008. In 2011, his last season in New Orleans, he recorded 52 combined tackles along with two forced fumbles and one interception. The Saints are really only looking at Porter as a second choice.
The Saints are currently tied for first in the race to sign Asomugha. The cornerback is reportedly torn with whether to sign with the Saints or the San Francisco 49ers. Asomugha started his career out in California, playing for Cal and then later with the Oakland Raiders. A chance to head back out west could be what he needs to restart his career. However, the Saints have Ryan who is Asomugha's former coach when he played for Oakland. The two were very successful working with each other which could prove fruitful for the Saints if he chooses them.
Porter is also getting attention from the Oakland Raiders and surely will not sign anywhere until Asomugha does. The Saints like the potential at the reunion, but their first choice is Asomugha and will wait to make a move once they hear from him.