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Sean Payton: Saints likely to add CB help

Originally posted on Pro Football Rumors
By Sam Robinson | Last updated 8/15/21

Although Patrick Robinson did not play a big role with the Saints upon returning to the team that drafted him, the since-retired cornerback was receiving extensive work in training camp and on track to play a big role. Robinson’s retirement has left the Saints even thinner at cornerback.

Marshon Lattimore faces a possible suspension for his March arrest. That prospect would leave New Orleans extremely vulnerable at corner. Sean Payton said in April cornerback was a position the team must upgrade. Following Robinson’s retirement nearly four months later, Payton called corner a “must” position and said a notable acquisition at this spot will likely take place ahead of the season.

“Yeah, we’re paying close attention to that,” Payton said of cornerbacks potentially available (via ESPN.com’s Dan Graziano). “And I would say there’s a good chance for us maybe that player may or may not be in the building right now.”

Certainly not shy about taking big swings in trades, the Saints are believed to be one of the teams interested in Jaguars cornerback C.J. Henderson. New Orleans tried to trade up for Jaycee Horn and Patrick Surtain II in the first round but could not find a team willing to accept its offer to move into the top 10. The team did draft Stanford’s Paulson Adebo in Round 3, but after releasing previous starter Janoris Jenkins and seeing Robinson retire, the Saints are light on proven options opposite Lattimore.

The Saints signed slot corner Brian Poole and Prince Amukamara, but the veteran boundary defender did not play last season. Prior to Richard Sherman‘s arrest last month, the Saints were linked to the outside corner in free agency. Sherman remains available, though the 33-year-old defender faces legal issues presently. Josh Norman, Dre Kirkpatrick and now Quinton Dunbar are also available. The Saints met with Kirkpatrick in June.