- 2022 cap number: $11.7 million
- 2022 dead cap number (via pre-June 1 trade/release): $7.9 million
- Post-June 1 cap savings in 2022 (via trade/release): $7.75 million
Jenkins returned to New Orleans in 2021 with the hopes of pursuing another title, but a revolving door at quarterback prevented those goals from coming to fruition. The Saints can comfortably move on from Jenkins, who’s signed through 2023, knowing two of their other safeties graded out better than the long-time veteran — even if his replacement, C.J. Gardner-Johnson, was slightly worse, per PFF. New Orleans’ existing creativity would be limited with Gardner-Johnson, but that’s not enough of a reason to carry Jenkins’ $11.7 million cap figure. A team in need of veteran leadership might be interested in acquiring the 34-year-old, but with no guaranteed salary remaining, an outright release could be in the cards.
Potential buyers: Jacksonville Jaguars, New York Jets, Indianapolis Colts, Miami Dolphins.