MLB Curtis Lofton To Saints. Is This An Insurance Deal?
Written by Adrian Gregory Glover // March 25, 2012 // News, NFL // No comments
METAIRIE, La. – The talk of MLB Curtis Lofton going to the Eagles came to a screeching halt when the team traded for MLB Demeco Ryans.
That sent the talk of Lofton going to the Buccaneers back into over drive; especially in light of the Saints scandal. Then there were whispers that because he had priced himself out of the market that maybe the Atlanta Falcons would be able to keep him after all.
When it all shook out, it was the Saints that landed the standout from Oklahoma. The deal is a five year contract that will keep him within the NFC South.
I am sure Lofon will circle the Atlanta Falcons games on his schedule with a bright red Sharpee marker.
Despite his upcoming suspension Saints GM Mickey Loomis issued a statement on behalf of the team.
“Curtis is a versatile, hard-working player that has displayed a knack for being around the football, and more importantly, making plays on the ball. “
“He has the ability to play all three linebacker positions and we feel that he’s just entering the prime of his career. We think he can come to New Orleans and fit in well and provide us with a significant contribution to our defense.”
Loomis did not mention anything about the potential upcoming suspicion of MLB Jonathan Vilma, but I can’t see how this did not play into their thinking when they gave Lofton the deal.
According to NOLA, Vilma has been the only Saints player mentioned by “name” in the NFL’s ongoing investigation into this “bounty” scandal.
Vilma is alleged to have offered $10,000 to any player that could “knock out” then Vikings QB Brett Favre during the 2009 NFC Championship game.
Bringing Lofton in at all costs greatly off-sets whatever punishment the NFL is about to throw down.
With NFLPA conducting their own investigation, player punishments may not be forthcoming with the next couple of days, but they are coming.
Lofton is a high character guy with a big-time motor that will in many opinions be an upgrade from Vilma.
This was a good move for the Saints albeit what many felt was an impossible one to pull off.
Atlanta fans are screaming bloody murder as Lofton was a fan favorite.
