NEW ORLEANS – People familiar with the situation say defensive end Will Smith and linebacker Jonathan Vilma have agreed to restructure their contracts in order to remain with the New Orleans Saints.
Meanwhile, one person says reserve linebacker Will Herring is being released.
The people spoke to The Associated Press Tuesday on condition of anonymity because contract details have not been announced by the team or the players' representatives, though Herring said on Twitter that he appreciated his time in New Orleans.
The 31-year-old Smith and 30-year-old Vilma, both veteran defensive captains who were implicated in the NFL's bounty probe, would have consumed about $23 million combined in salary cap space had they not agreed to new deals before the new league year — and free agency — began Tuesday afternoon.
Receive your weekly recap of all the happenings around the world of sports.