Saints to Reportedly Pursue Former Patriots and Browns LB Jamie Collins in Free Agency

The New Orleans Saints shockingly fell to the Minnesota Vikings in the Wild Card Round last season, and it would appear that the team's front office is wasting no time zeroing in on potential signings to bolster the roster this offseason in preparation for another run at a championship.

According to Larry Holder of The Athletic, the Saints are expected to pursue former New England Patriots and Cleveland Browns linebacker Jamie Collins.

It was always presumed that New Orleans would pursue a linebacker this offseason as starting LB AJ Klein is set to hit the open market in March. Further, the franchise could save close to $8 million if it were to let Kiko Alonso walk after the 29-year-old started just four games this past season.

Following two disappointing years in Cleveland, Collins is fresh off one of the most productive campaigns of his eight-year career in the NFL. The former Pro Bowler played 81% of New England's defensive snaps and recorded a career-high seven sacks, 10 quarterback hits, three forced fumbles, and three interceptions.

Collins revived his career in Foxborough in 2019, and it's looking like that will see the 30-year-old presented with the opportunity to cash in one last lucrative contract.