The Saints Should Avoid In-Division Trade for Bucs LB Devin White

While Devin White is a talented linebacker, the arguments against an in-division Saints trade are greater than those for.

Another high-level player has requested a trade this offseason who fits a need for the New Orleans Saints. But yet again, much like quarterback Lamar Jackson and running back Austin Ekeler, the Saints would be better off spending their capital and resources elsewhere. Tampa Bay Buccaneers linebacker Devin White has reportedly requested a trade, per ESPN's Jenna Laine. While there are some good arguments in favor of trading for the former LSU Tigers linebacker, the most assertions are those to made in favor.

Jan 1, 2023; Tampa, Florida, USA; Tampa Bay Buccaneers linebacker Devin White (45) reacts after a play against the Carolina Panthers in the fourth quarter at Raymond James Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Nathan Ray Seebeck-USA TODAY Sports

Yes, White is one of the most productive linebackers in the NFL since entering the league in 2019. Since then, he ranks No. 7 among all defenders across the league in total tackles with 483 and added 20.5 sacks during that time as well. His 55 on opposing quarterbacks over that period hovers around players like Tennessee Titans pass rusher Harold Landry and veteran edge rusher Chandler Jones. There is no doubt that he has been wildly effective, particularly early in his still-young career.

The Saints also have a need at linebacker. With the departure of 2019 seventh-round selection Kaden Elliss to the Atlanta Falcons, New Orleans lost a key rotational piece in their defense's second level. Elliss accounted for 7 of the team's sacks last season and a player like White, who can both cover and rush the passer, would be an excellent addition. But would he be willing to play third-fiddle behind starting linebackers Demario Davis and Pete Werner, if asked?

White certainly has the talent to challenge for a starting role, but the team's need at the position mostly resides in quality depth and rotation. Would an in-division trade premium be worth upsetting your linebacker depth chart? Or are the Saints not as sold on Werner as anticipated? The latter for sure does not seem likely. So the trade based on need would not make a lot of sense.

Jan 16, 2022; Tampa, Florida, USA; Tampa Bay Buccaneers inside linebacker Devin White (45) reacts to a platy in the first half against the Philadelphia Eagles in a NFC Wild Card playoff football game at Raymond James Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Nathan Ray Seebeck-USA TODAY Sports

Especially when you also take salary into consideration. Of course, no one works the cap the Saints do, but even with their usual nifty accounting and financial gymnastics the $11 million cap hit White brings to a new team in 2023 is hefty. Beyond that, committing $17 to $20 million per year for an extension is certainly not in the team's standard operating procedure. The salary cap experts at Spotrac.com estimate White's market to hover around a whopping annual value of $20.1 million. Far more than New Orleans has ever paid for an off-ball linebacker.

Another concern for New Orleans should be effort. The linebacker took on some excruciating criticism from former Bucs defensive lineman Warren Sapp over his seemingly lacking motor just last year. Considering the players the Saints have invested in this offseason, their measure of on-field demeanor may take them in a different direction when addressing the position. Though there is more than enough tape on White to suggest that in the right environment, effort may not be an issue.

It is clear that White is immensely talented. However, the intersection of need, capital and value does not seem to exist. Therefore, it seems very unlikely that New Orleans would be in on this deal; especially within the division. That may be disappointing for many Saints fans who reveled in the acquisitions of former LSU Tigers safety Tyrann Mathieu and wide receiver Jarvis Landry ahead of the 2022 NFL season. Bringing another former Tiger to the Big Easy is always a hit. But the Saints may need to find a more economical means of making that happen.