Free Agency, Day 22

Oddly enough, yesterday may have changed the face of the draft, or at least my mock draft.

Saints sign LB David Hawthorne

The Saints signed linebacker David Hawthorne to a five-year deal.

This is arguably one of the best and most perplexing signings of this offseason. One the one hand, Hawthorne was the third best middle linebacker (and overall linebacker) available in free agency, so signing him would be a good deal for any team. However, I just have no idea what they plan to do with him.

Reports are that he’ll be moved to the outside, like Curtis Lofton, and Jonathan Vilma will still be in the middle. However, Hawthorne wasn’t great when the Seahawks tried to move him to the outside in 2010 and they have no idea how good Lofton could be on the outside. As a whole, both are upgrades as linebackers, but how well the group works as a whole depends on how the Saints use them and how well they hold up in coverage. Overall I like the signing, I’m just interested to see how they work them into the lineup.

Chargers sign WR Roscoe Parrish

The Chargers signed wide receiver Roscoe Parrish to a one-year deal.

I like this signing as a move to solidify the special teams unit. Parrish has tried for years, but failed to make an impact as a receiver. However, his impact as a punt returner is amazing. He should help the punt return game immensely. This was a good signing.

Colts sign LS Matthew Overton, TE Kyle Miller

The Colts signed long snapper Matthew Overton and tight end Kyle Miller to undisclosed contracts.

I pride myself on knowing almost everyone who plays in the NFL and what the can bring to a team. That begin said, I’ve got no clue about these guys and I’m not expecting them to help the Colts at all.