Robert Meachem made a name for himself in New Orleans as a key member to the Saints' high-powered offense. He then signed a nice large contract with the San Diego Chargers, but failed to repeat the success out West. Now a free agent once again after getting release before the 53-man roster was made, Meachem could find himself back in New Orleans.
Meachem was essentially a total bust in San Diego. He recorded just 207 yards and two touchdowns last season after signing a contract worth $5 million in guaranteed money. Meachem was buried in the depth chart even with the injuries San Diego suffered at the position group. The Chargers opted to simply eat the money and just release the wide receiver, rather than find a trade partner willing to take him on. Meachem suffered a concussion in the preseason finale, thus hurting his status with the team even more.
Now on the market, Bill Williamson of ESPN.com reports that Meachem is on the verge of signing back with the Saints. The team recently loss Joe Morgan for the entire season after he tore his meniscus and partially tore his ACL. He was originally penciled in as the No. 3 receiver. Meachem can easily replace him as both players served the same role. Morgan was a deep threat and Meachem showed signs of still possessing that ability.
If signed, he will likely fight for time with Kenny Stills, the fifth round draft pick out of Oklahoma. He was the original receiver projected to replace Morgan. The Saints have been working to develop Stills and are counting on him to mature quickly. Nick Toon is another flash of potential on the Saints roster that will get a chance to contribute.
Meachem put up four quality years with the Saints after being drafted back in 2007. He was a constant threat, putting up at least 600 yards or more three years in a row. He could easily slip back into the offensive scheme since he and quarterback Drew Brees have already built up an excellent amount of chemistry. The issue holding the receiver back will be his health. If Meachem can stay healthy, the Saints will be getting quality back.
