Just when fans thought the offseason was settling down, a major move is unfolding in New Orleans, a rock-solid center of the Saints’ offensive line, is reportedly restructuring his contract—but what does this really mean? Is this a strategic financial shift, or does it hint at something bigger brewing behind the scenes? Could this move signal a deeper roster overhaul, or is he securing his long-term future in the Big Easy? One thing is certain—this development could have major implications for the team’s future, and Saints fans won’t want to miss what happens next. As the New Orleans Saints embark on their yearly mission to get under the NFL salary cap, they’ve taken a familiar step—restructuring veteran contracts. On Wednesday, Nick Underhill of neworleans.football reported that the team has reached an agreement with center Erik McCoy to adjust his current deal. This move is a routine strategy for General Manager Mickey Loomis, allowing the Saints to navigate financial constraints without gutting their roster.
By restructuring McCoy’s contract, the Saints could free up nearly $7 million in cap space, a crucial step as they prepare for free agency. Despite the league-wide salary cap increasing to $279.2 million per team—$23.8 million more than last season—New Orleans remains one of the most over-budget franchises, forcing them to make significant adjustments. McCoy’s restructure is likely just the beginning, with several other players expected to follow suit.
McCoy, a staple of the Saints’ offensive line, signed a five-year, $63.7 million extension early in the 2023 season. Drafted in the second round of the 2018 NFL Draft, the 27-year-old has been a reliable starter throughout his six-year career. Originally a guard in college, McCoy transitioned to center in the NFL and has become one of the league’s better players at the position.
Durability has been a challenge in recent seasons. After starting all 32 games in his first two years, injuries sidelined McCoy for a combined nine contests in 2021 and 2022. In 2023, he suffered a groin injury in Week 3 against the Eagles, causing him to miss six consecutive games and seven of eight overall. Though he returned late in the season, a setback in Week 16 kept him out for the final two matchups.
With free agency looming next week, the Saints have a long road ahead to become cap-compliant. McCoy’s contract adjustment is a key step, but plenty of tough financial decisions remain for New Orleans.
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