Emmanuel Sanders Turning Down the Cowboys and Packers Proves the Saints Are the NFC's Top Dog
By Jerry Trotta
Friday night proved to be a big one in the NFC, as Emmanuel Sanders agreed to sign a two-year, $16 million contract with the New Orleans Saints.
It's a huge move for New Orleans, with the team bringing in a solid No. 2 receiver to pair alongside superstar Michael Thomas.
What's equally important is that Sanders' move to the Big Easy confirms that the Saints are still the team to beat in the NFC. The two-time Pro Bowler reportedly chose Sean Payton's side over the likes of the Dallas Cowboys and Green Bay Packers.
Emmanuel Sanders had appealing NFC options. Sanders spoke with the Dallas Cowboys and the Green Bay Packers, but preferred to wind up with the New Orleans Saints, where he land d a two-year, $16 million deal worth up to $19 million.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) March 21, 2020
There's certainly an argument to be had for the San Francisco 49ers in this debate, but they need to find a replacement for Sanders in the worst way. The Niners' offense was a machine once they acquired the 33-year-old from Denver at the trade deadline. Without him, no so much.
As for the Cowboys and Packers, well, they still belong in the second tier in terms of the NFC power rankings.
Sanders will be a welcomed addition to an already elite Saints offense. To think that Brees won't be forced to pepper Thomas with targets is huge for New Orleans' outlook in 2020. As great as Thomas' historic campaign was to watch unfold, that recipe for winning was going to peter out at some point.
Breaking: Emmanuel Sanders has agreed to a two-year deal with the Saints, he told @JosinaAnderson.
— SportsCenter (@SportsCenter) March 21, 2020
A source tells @AdamSchefter the deal is for $16 million and could escalate to $19 million. pic.twitter.com/xrdIfO0KrL
The fact that Sanders, who logged 66 receptions for 869 yards and five touchdowns with both the Broncos and 49ers last season, chose New Orleans over two other elite NFC teams is just further evidence that the Saints are the class of the conference.