David Edwards

Current Contract

Contract Value Index (CVI)

The Saints secured solid value by locking up David Edwards at $15.3M AAV, a deal that earns a strong B+ CVI despite questions about his ceiling. While Edwards falls into the "unproven" performance tier, this contract represents shrewd roster building — paying above-average starter money for a player who could develop into something more substantial along New Orleans' offensive line. The four-year structure with $45M guaranteed gives the Saints reasonable protection while betting on Edwards' upside in his prime years. At 27, Edwards is entering his peak developmental window, making this the right time to commit significant resources if the Saints believe in his trajectory. The guaranteed money reflects confidence in Edwards as a foundational piece, though the relatively modest AAV suggests realistic expectations rather than betting on elite production. This represents exactly the type of calculated investment successful franchises make — paying fair market value for proven competence while maintaining upside if the player exceeds expectations.

Performance Analysis

David Edwards earns an F for the Saints at guard, one of the lowest-graded offensive linemen in the NFL. Edwards was once a competent starter in Los Angeles, but his play has fallen off a cliff since leaving the Rams. He has been beaten in pass protection at an alarming rate and has not provided any push in the run game. New Orleans's offensive line has been a significant weakness, and Edwards has been at the center of that dysfunction. The Saints need to find better interior options, because this level of play is simply not viable.

Fan Sentiment

The Saints landed arguably the top available guard on the market, a clear quality starter addition. Five headlines confirm strong media buzz, with outlets calling Edwards the NFL's top available guard at signing. Buffalo's attempt to re-sign him is the strongest signal — teams fight to keep good players. Saints fans are excited, seeing this as a genuine offensive line upgrade after years of interior struggles. Edwards projects as an immediate Week 1 starter who stabilizes a Saints offensive line that desperately needed credible help.