Tyree Wilson’s situation reveals the Saints edge plan

Wilson’s size and athletic profile keep teams interested, but the production hasn’t matched the hype. Twelve sacks in 50 games is hard to ignore, no matter how much potential you see.

The Saints didn’t have to give up much to get him, which is why the move makes sense. They can see if a new environment helps without pretending his past three seasons didn’t happen.

Tyree Wilson’s move to New Orleans already looked like a short-term trial, and the team’s decision not to pick up his fifth-year option only reinforces that. The Saints are willing to take a chance on his physical traits but aren’t ready to make any long-term financial commitment just yet.

This isn’t an anchor move. It’s a test run, and with so little draft capital involved, it fits where the Saints are right now. They can see if new surroundings and coaching help unlock something more in Wilson without pretending he hasn’t struggled over his first three seasons.

2026 will show if the Saints took a smart risk or just acted out of need

If New Orleans were confident about their edge group, Wilson would have been nothing more than a low-risk flyer. But that’s not how this reads. This move points more towards an ongoing search for stability, especially as they prepare for life after Cameron Jordan.

The decision not to exercise his option tells you exactly where the team stands. They’re curious about what he might bring in certain packages but aren’t about to invest heavily before seeing real progress within their own system.

It is not hard to see how this could work out. Wilson could settle into a more defined role, improve his consistency on passing downs, and turn into the type of younger edge rusher New Orleans would want to keep around at a reasonable price.

The flip side is also on the table. If he remains up and down, declining the option will look like the obvious call, and by next offseason, New Orleans could be back in the market for another answer on the edge. But whatever happens, it is already clear why this move was made. It was not because they saw Wilson as a fix; it was because they needed another option to try.

That’s why declining the option matters. It wasn’t about managing money — it was about admitting they are still figuring out what their long-term plan looks like.

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