Negotiations between the Saints and quarterback Drew Brees on a long-term contract have slowed considerably in recent weeks, according to a source with knowledge of the situation. Because of the breakdown in progress, it is looking more and more like New Orleans will wait to see how the season plays out, place their franchise tag on the quarterback and then try to work out a long-term deal in the offseason. If the Saints use the exclusive version of the tag, Brees can't even talk to another team.