Saints Continue to Damage Image by Shortchanging Drew Brees on Long-Term Deal

What in the world are the New Orleans Saints doing? 

They've had one of the worst offseasons from a public relations and image standpoint in NFL history, and now, they're struggling through a messy contract standout with their franchise quarterback. 

Not only is Drew Brees the organization's most recognizable figure and franchise signal-caller, he's fresh off a record-shattering 2011 in which he made opposing defenses look like unaware junior varsity players.

Easily one of the best three quarterbacks in the game today. 

ESPN's John Clayton discussed the latest updates in the contract situation on Mike and Mike Tuesday morning and stated that the two sides are now only two million apart in annual compensation as a part of a long-term deal. 

Clayton went on to say: 

"

You get the feeling they'll get something done. It's just going to be weeks, a couple of days, could take them a month. But overall, they've moved closer, not in the last couple of weeks, but at least a couple of weeks ago.

"

That's great news for a club that can't afford another offseason hit. 

Every day that passes without Brees inked to a new deal is furthering the team's image, but if the deal does get done, and it sounds like it will, it'll be a huge morale boost for the Saints and their devoted fanbase. 

I know working out a monster deal that could make Brees the highest-paid player in the league takes time, but he should have been priority No. 1 the moment the moment the 2011 season ended. 

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