The New Orleans Saints are going through a bit of a rough patch and it is possible the Saints will re-examine key areas of their offense this offseason.
The running game was solid for the most part thanks the Mark Ingram, who had a special season. But behind Ingram there was not much talent and it showed. The Saints signed C.J. Spiller last offseason and it appeared they had found a thunder and lightning combination that could help them win their division. This did not come to pass and Spiller barely saw the field. Spiller only started 2 games and had 36 rushing attempts.
He averaged 3.1 yards per carry and dealt with injuries all season long. Spiller is pretty much a first round draft bust after only getting to 1,000 rushing yards once in his career; he also only has 12 touchdowns in his 6 season NFL career.
Spiller has a cap hit of $4.5 million which is not pocket change especially when you consider the cap strapped Saints situation. The Saints could use some playmakers on offense and a ton of help on defense but will likely be forced to sit on their hands as they sort through their cap conundrum.
Travaris Cadet and Tim Hightower will be free agents, leaving Marcus Murphy, Mark Ingram, and Spiller. Murphy is a 22 year old speed back who has yet to show the NFL what he can do. The Saints would do themselves a favor by releasing the disappointing Spiller and signing Chris Ivory in free agency. The Saints will need to build a reliable run game if they are to contend for a playoff spot.
