Seahawks Are the Biggest Winners After Emmanuel Sanders Signed With Saints

What an offseason it's been for the New Orleans Saints. In addition to signing Drew Brees to an extension and reuniting with Malcolm Jenkins, the team agreed to a two-year deal with Emmanuel Sanders on Friday night.

You know who's smiling from ear to ear after hearing this news? No doubt the Seattle Seahawks, who get to watch Sanders leave the San Francisco 49ers and the NFC West entirely.

While the Arizona Cardinals have added DeAndre Hopkins and the Rams' offense is sexy, the battle for the division still figures to be between the Hawks and 49ers in the coming years. Let's be real, the two are stacked.

However, Sanders was an important part of the offense in key moments last season for the NFC champs, hauling in 53 balls for 502 yards and three touchdowns after they acquired him. The veteran receiver has as steady hands as you can find, and was a leader in the wide receiver room. For a young unit, missing Sanders next season will hurt. All the more reason for Seattle to celebrate.

While the 49ers could replace Sanders' spot in the draft or in free agency -- while keeping in mind there's not a lot of top targets left -- expecting someone to step in right away and match his production will be tough.

Sanders was surely hoping to run it back with San Francisco, but letting him slip away and sign with another NFC powerhouse very well may haunt them come next winter.