The New Orleans Saints made strategic moves in free agency, managing to retain more top-100 talent than they lost. Justin Reid, a standout safety, was secured with a three-year deal worth $31.5 million, enhancing the Saints' secondary, which was a pivotal need. However, cornerback Paulson Adebo departed for the New York Giants, leaving a gap in their defensive backfield. The Saints also extended contracts for key players Chase Young and Juwan Johnson, showing commitment to their core while addressing positional needs ahead of the draft. Despite perceptions that they might not compete this season, these decisions reflect a dual strategy of maintaining competitiveness while potentially planning for the future.