Just hours before the start of free agency, the New Orleans Saints have announced a new 5 year, 40 million dollar deal (about half guaranteed) for wide receiver Marques Colston. Colston has been a phenomenal player for the Saints. Colston was a 7th round pick out of Hofstra who emerged as a dynamic playmaker for the Saints. Colston wanted to stay in New Orleans and he got his wish. This just serves as more of an indication that Robert Meachem is going to hit the market in a few hours. Carl Nicks has been offered a contract from the Saints, but it is very possible that he will hit the market.
The biggest impact Colston signing with New Orleans has on the Chargers is that it drives the market even higher for Vincent Jackson. Jackson has said that he is willing to give San Diego a sweetheart deal, but I have a hard time believing it, especially coming from a guy who was willing to shaft his teammates to get more money. If Jackson is going after the money, the removal of another quality receiver just limits the supply available. Teams will now be willing to pay even more if it means acquiring Jackson. I don't expect Jackson to be back. Rumors have been flying as to which team Jackson is linked to, with Tampa Bay, Chicago, and Washington all being rumored to sign Jackson. With Washington being slapped with the huge salary cap penalties over the next two years, I expect Chicago to be the team that actually ends up with Jackson. Jay Cutler is in need of a legitimate number one receiver (he has done a good job with what he has though). Jackson would give Cutler a big target who can go up and get the jump ball. The Chargers will miss his production, but I think that they can find a good replacement in the draft this year.
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