The New Orleans Saints have confirmed that they’ve released TE Jeremy Shockey. Head coach Sean Payton said in a release issued by the team:
Jeremy Shockey: ‘Whoever Gets Me It’s Going To Be A Steal’
"Jeremy played an important role in helping our team bring a Super Bowl championship to New Orleans," said Head Coach Sean Payton. "He contributed to the success of our offense, both as a pass-catcher and run blocker, and we're appreciative of his efforts."
Was this a surprise?
Not really. In fact, SB Nation’s Canal Street Chronicles predicted as much in early January. Shockey was due $4.2 million in 2011 and with the emergency of Jimmy Graham, it didn’t seem like he was a great fit at that price.
A lot of NFL teams have held off on releasing players until a new labor deal is done. On March 3rd, the CBA will expire and from then there won’t be any players changing teams until a new one is signed. Cutting Shockey now gives him an opportunity to sign with another team before March 3rd so the timing could be beneficial for Shockey.
For his part, Shockey says he’s going to be a bargain on the open market.
“It’s a business, I understand,” Shockey said. “I’ll just go play hard for someone else. Whoever gets me it’s going to be a steal.”
Check out Canal Street Chronicles to see what Saints fans are saying about the Shockey news.
See More:
