Today marks the official beginning of the free agency period and the Saints are busy rebuilding their defensive line. ESPN is reporting the Saints are expected to sign Jets defensive tackle Nathan Shepherd, who has played in 73 games over the last five seasons. New Orleans has also reportedly reached an agreement with Chiefs defensive tackle Khalen Saunders on a three-year deal. He’s 324-pounds but moves well for his size.

Wide receiver Michael Thomas is returning for at least one more season with the Saints as he’s agreed to a restructured contract. Thomas returns to an offensive scheme he’s thrived in and an opportunity to earn $15 million with incentives. Luke Johnson of The Advocate says the deal protects the Saints and will be more than worth it, even if a fraction of the old Thomas returns…
Cut 17 (19) “…of the cost.”

In a final tune-up before SEC play begins, the top ranked LSU baseball team pounded the UNO Privateers 16 to 0. Right hander Garret Edwards was the winning pitcher as he struck out five in 3.2 innings. Tommy White and Gavin Dugas both homered. Coach Jay Johnson says his team is ready for the 30-game conference schedule…
cut 15 (23) “…for that”
LSU is at Texas A&M on Friday.

John Taylor hit a three-run, inside-the-park home run as the Cajuns blanked Jackson State seven to nothing. Louisiana faces Mississippi State today at 5 PM in Biloxi.

The Pelicans are off tonight after getting blown out by the Lakers last night.