If Drew Brees does not have a long-term contract in place by Monday’s 4 p.m. ET deadline, the New Orleans Saints quarterback has no plans to sign his franchise tender and report to training camp, according to league and team sources.
The Saints have offered Brees a contract that would average $19.25 million per year, or slightly more than the $19.2 million the Denver Broncos gavePeyton Manning, sources said. Brees is seeking $20.5 million per year and is using his six years with the Saints to justify his position.
Since signing with New Orleans prior to the 2006 season, Brees has emerged statistically as the league’s most prolific passer, accumulated more victories than any starting quarterback and won both a Super Bowl title and MVP during the 2009 season.
Neither side offered any immediate comment. A Saints official acknowledged Brees’ position but was hopeful the gap could be bridged between now and July 16.
Any player designated as a franchise player has until Monday’s deadline to reach a long-term agreement. After that deadline, the player can only play by signing his franchise tag.
WRITTEN BY Chris Mortensen | ESPN & FULL STORY HERE
