Because we’re in the negotiating period of free agency prior to the official signing window opening, it’s likely Mark Ingram’s agent finally had a chance to get a feel for what Ingram’s market really was. That’s thanks to his ability to negotiate with other teams. My guess is the Saints offer was signed once they were able to determine the deal was fair. Adam Schefter broke the news:
Saints and RB Mark Ingram have reached agreement on a four-year deal, per league source.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) March 8, 2015
//platform.twitter.com/widgets.jsAnd shortly after, the terms were released:
Mark Ingram remains in New Orleans on a 4year/$16m deal. $4M/yr best he was going to do. Tough sledding for RBs out there
— Jason La Canfora (@JasonLaCanfora) March 8, 2015
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At first glance a 4 year deal at $4 million per seems like a high commitment. If I’m being honest I’m not psyched about this contract. But before you freak out about the length of the contract, rest assured he won’t see the last year to two of that deal if he has a major drop off in production. The beauty of non guaranteed contracts and cap savings. Still, it’s great to have him back. Sean Payton made it clear that was his and the team’s intention and now the Saints don’t have to worry about who will be their lead runner in 2015.
Ingram showed in 2014 he can carry the load and he can be a 1,000 yard running back. With this contract he now needs to show he can do that consistently.
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