New Orleans Saints Release QB Garrett Grayson

The Saints have released QB Garrett Grayson.

Amid reports of a possible extension in the works for Drew Brees, the Saints have released second year quarterback Garrett Grayson. Grayson looked to be the heir apparent to Drew Brees, whose future with the team, until only recently, was uncertain. Now, with Brees seemingly locked up for the coming years, the team is moving on from the disappointing sophomore.

Disappointing Play

Admittedly, expectations were quite high for Grayson after the team committed a third round draft pick to drafting him. But for the most part, the QB underwhelmed in his limited preseason play. After Grayson’s rough preseason outing against the Steelers, Payton publically expressed his disappointment with the quarterback’s development. At times Grayson has looked mobile and accurate, but errant throws and poor decisions have outweighed the positives.

If Grayson clears waivers, expect him to land on the Saints practice squad. While he hasn’t played as well as expected, he’s still in his second year and might still develop into a potential option at QB. The Saints simply can’t afford a roster spot this year on somebody that isn’t ready to contribute.

Moving Forward

Grayson’s release means that the team will enter the season with only two quarterbacks on the roster. Luke McCown is the backup. McCown played well against Carolina last year, when Brees was recovering from a shoulder injury. He hasn’t played very well in this preseason, but he’s shown that he can handle the position if anything should happen to Brees. Early reports are that Grayson’s open roster spot will mean the return of long-time Saints guard Jahri Evans, who should help solidify a porous offensive line.

Even with Brees locked up for the next few years, expect New Orleans to draft a QB, or to look for a young player in free agency to develop behind Brees. The Saints struck out with Grayson, but may have more luck with their next roll of the dice. Here’s hoping.