Examining the Saints’ connection forming with the Panthers
By Dean Jones
The connection of former New Orleans Saints on the Carolina Panthers has grown considerably this offseason.
The Carolina Panthers have quietly acquired plenty of former foes from their NFC South rival New Orleans Saints. The latest of these is cornerback Eli Apple, who signed a one-year, $3 million deal this week and has a solid chance of starting from day one.
This is the latest in a series of moves by the Carolina Panthers involving former players or staff associated with the Saints. If they are looking to replicate the prolonged success of the franchise. Then what better way to start than with those that have spent time in New Orleans.
While the Panthers hold out little hope of pushing for the postseason in 2020. If they can make steady progress during head coach Matt Rhule’s first year at the helm. Then it could be the catalyst for brighter things in the future.
The Saints are harboring bigger ambitions during Drew Brees’ final season under center before retirement. They have a loaded roster on both sides of the ball. And it would be a huge disappointment if the franchise did not win a Super Bowl in 2020.
Having so many former Saints’ on the roster might be a good thing for the Panthers. All of them will know what it is like to be part of a winning organization. And they can lend their expertise accordingly.
It is a big season in many ways for the Panthers. They are devoid of any prominent veteran leadership after gutting their roster. But whether members of their current group can fill the void remains to be seen.
Here is a closer look at the former Saints who will be looking to drive the Panthers forward next season.