NFL Rumors: Saints Must Give Drew Brees New Contract After Bounty Suspensions

The New Orleans Saints have taken several hard hits this offseason, but they could easily shed positive light on the franchise by awarding Drew Brees the new contract he deserves. 

After the NFL hammered the coaching staff, upper management and a few players in the wake of bountygate, the Saints are in dire need of good news. 

There's nothing better than locking up the franchise QB to a large contract. Yes, Brees will make a lot of money, but since he's one of the best in the league at such a crucial position, he deserves every penny.

Pat Yasinskas, ESPN's NFC South blogger, speculated yesterday that with Jonathan Vilma being suspended the whole year without pay, the extra cap space could lead to Brees getting a new deal. 

Unfortunately, not long after he wrote that, a report by ESPN stated Brees and the Saints aren't any closer to a new deal. One of Adam Schefter's sources told the NFL insider that "little progress" has been been on a long-term deal for Brees.  

Given all the recent turmoil the Saints' organization has been through, inking Brees to a mega-deal with lift the spirits of the fans, as well as provide a happier atmosphere for offseason workouts. Knowing the franchise QB is set and pleased with a deal contract, folks can at least attempt to forget about bountygate, even if only for a minute or two. 

There's no denying the Saints will be a contender in 2012, even though they'll be without head coach Sean Payton. The defense took a hit with these bountygate suspensions, but the offense is still in good hands.

Of course, everything would be much better if the Saints would wise up and give Brees the money he deserves. After all, the QB has been the sole reason the Saints rose to prominence in the NFL, and since New Orleans is in desperate need of a smile, there isn't a better time than right now to sign Brees to a new deal.