New Orleans Saints Rework Kicker's Contract


Reworking his contract.

The New Orleans Saints have decided to bring back veteran kicker Wil Lutz for the 2023 season, but with a significant reduction in salary.

Initially set to earn a base salary of $3.4 million next season, Lutz has agreed to a reworked deal that will see him earn just $1.9 million in base salary. This pay cut will save the Saints $1.5 million in salary cap space.

While Lutz's contract was not restructured, the team added incentives to the agreement, allowing him to earn back much of the money he lost if he performs well during the season.

However, Lutz's recent performance raises concerns about his ability to bounce back from a season-ending core muscle surgery that forced him to miss the entire 2021 season.

This past season, Lutz made all 33 extra-point attempts but struggled with field goals from varying distances, connecting on only 74.2% of his 31 attempts.

Among kickers who attempted 31 or more field goals last season, Lutz was one of just four to have connected on fewer than 80% of their tries.

As a result of his performance, Lutz now carries a salary cap hit of $4.12 million, down from his previous $5.62 million.

Lutz is set to become a free agent after the upcoming season, and the Saints will be keeping a close eye on his performance to determine his future with the team.

Photo Credit:  Eric Hartline-USA TODAY Sports