The Saints are "close" to a new contract with Drew Brees, according to owner Tom Benson. "I talked to Drew Brees this morning personally and told him what was going on... " Benson said. "He's due in next week and we (are) close. You know how those things work. It just takes a little more time, a little patience... We haven't forgotten about him." Benson was asked about Brees during a press conference announcing him as the new owner of the NBA's Hornets. The Saints placed their franchise tag on Brees earlier this year and are working on a long-term extension, though those talks have dragged on.