Nov 5, 2023; New Orleans, Louisiana, USA; New Orleans Saints safety Marcus Maye (6) celebrates getting an interception against Chicago Bears quarterback Tyson Bagent (17) during the second half at the Caesars Superdome. Mandatory Credit: Stephen Lew-USA TODAY Sports
Marcus Maye, a former New Orleans Saint, is one of the greatest free agent safeties available today. The seven-year veteran was missed on a crowded market after being released in a cap-saving trade. Maye had to sit back and watch as players such as Xavier McKinney, Antoine Winfield, and Kyle Dugger signed life-changing contracts.
Marcus Maye probably won’t sign as a free agent until Justin Simmons finds a new home. The former Bronco is undoubtedly the best safety available, and any team trying to improve at the position would put him at the top of their list. However, once he signs, the rest of the market may swiftly follow suit. Given their cap situation and overall roster structure.
Chiefs and Ravens are the top free agent suitors. Marcus Maye
Marcus Maye is a free agent who will not break the bank, making him an ideal option for a budget-conscious team. The Kansas City Chiefs have some cap room, but they should save it for more important positions. Depending on the severity of Rashee Rice’s impending ban, the team may need to invest in another wide receiver. It wouldn’t hurt to get a well-known cornerback like Stephon Gilmore or some competition for the left tackle position.
Justin Reid and Bryan Cook are good safeties, but the team could use more depth, especially with L’Jarius Sneed gone. Last year, Kansas City had the best cornerback combo in football, so the safeties didn’t have to assist with coverage very often. That won’t be the case this year, and a free agent like Marcus Maye might relieve the strain on a young starter like Joshua Williams.
Meanwhile, the Ravens are actively hunting for another safety. While Kyle Hamilton and Marcus Williams are both above-average starters, the Ravens deploy more three-safety formations than any other team in the league. With Geno Stone now in Cincinnati, the Ravens just invited Jamal Adams during a free agent visit. However, he departed without a contract.
At this stage in his career, Adams is essentially a glorified linebacker. Marcus Maye may not be a superstar, but the free agent is decent in both coverage and against the run, making him a perfect third safety who can fill either starting job at any time. With just under $6 million in cap space, Maye is an excellent low-cost replacement for Stone.
Possible Saints Reunion?
Of course, New Orleans could re-sign Marcus Maye as a free agent. The team couldn’t afford him at his former pay, but he’d be a valuable addition on a league-minimum contract. Tyrann Mathieu is still a good player, but he can’t play both safety spots.
