Schedule may be released early next year

[BillsWatch]

Or at least part of it to help Saints attract players:

 

NFL commissioner Paul Tagliabue said the league hopes to release the Saints' schedule for next season in January, three months earlier than usual. Most New Orleans players contend that if the team can show it will be able to put down roots in one spot, free agents will consider signing with the team next season.

 

"Regardless of what's happening and what's taking place this year, if we just know where our home is going to be next year I don't think it will be tough for us to sign free agents," defensive back Dwight Smith said. "Just for you to know where you're going to be for a full year would help."

 

http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/news/story?id=2227717

 

Oh and before anyone asks no we do not play the Saints next year (future schedule). Depending on Saints schedule it might help eliminate some possibilities IF NFL releases it like they are hoping.

[Just Jack]

I don't see the point of this. They could just say that the Saints are playing in NO (or some other city) and that's it. Why take the time to make and release their schedule 3 months ahead of everyone else?

[RVJ]

They say its to attract free agents. Maybe its to start selling season tickets early.

They might want to make sure the stadium is not empty. They will get a feel how

many season ticketholders they lost after Katrina. Alot of of people took off and

will not be back. If so ...say hello to the San Antonio or LA Saints.

[Buftex]

On a related topic, Tagliabue/Gene Upshaw have also recommened that NFL free agents who sign with the Saints next off-season, receive some sort of financial bonus, from, the leauge I presume...