The Facts: It’s been more than eight weeks since the season ended, and the exclusive negotiating period for what would be the latest contract between Brees and the Saints has officially expired. As of 12:00 p.m. ET, any other team can call agent Tom Condon in order to negotiate a contract with Brees. Teams and agents are permitted to reach a verbal agreement, with the final deal being executed on or after Wednesday at 4:00 p.m. ET.
Diehards Line:
While other teams can now make offers and negotiate, so can the Saints. And if the Saints are still the favorite, any additional suitors would essentially be doing nothing more than providing the veteran signal caller with additional leverage on his new deal with New Orleans. Again, the fact a new deal with the Saints isn't done, opens the door to considerable speculation -- and more. Stay tuned.