Saints free-agent targets leave visit with no deals after reports suggested they would sign

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The New Orleans Saints appeared to be on the verge of signing running back Kareem Hunt and linebacker Anthony Barr, but new reports indicated they are keeping their options open.

ESPN initially reported that Hunt and Barr were expected to sign with the Saints, bolstering some injury-laden position groups pending physicals. The keyword was expected, and it appears now that they aren't that close after all. 

ESPN and NFL Network reported later Tuesday that while both players had great visits with the Saints, they will be entertaining visits elsewhere to see what the market might get them.  

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Anthony Barr of the Dallas Cowboys lines up against the Jaguars at TIAA Bank Stadium on Dec. 18, 2022, in Jacksonville, Florida. (Mike Carlson/Getty Images)

Hunt reportedly has a visit set up with the Indianapolis Colts for Wednesday, while Barr has "interest from other teams and could make more visits in the near future," per NFL Network. 

It makes total sense the Saints wanted both players. In terms of Barr, the Saints were looking for some help given Andrew Dowell was lost for the season with a torn ACL to start training camp, while Demario Davis has been rehabbing a calf injury. 

Barr brings nine years of NFL experience to the table, eight of which came as a four-time Pro Bowler with the Minnesota Vikings. He most recently played for the Dallas Cowboys in 2022, totaling 58 tackles, one sack and two fumble recoveries. 

The ninth overall pick by the Vikings in 2014 out of UCLA, Barr would figure to slot right in and compete for a starting role. 

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