You have to remember that free agency and the draft go together like fish and chips (trying to get up for the London "home" game). You get an FA who fills a need, and that frees you up to draft differently. For example, getting Brees in free agency freed the Saints to not waste a first round pick on a QB. So, if the Saints go after Samuels, you have to think that means they have their eye on a LB or a DT in the draft. If they can get Samuels, then a top lineman with the No 1, then a CB or LB in round 2, they have come a long way.
You gotta have a little trust. Sean Payton will go after the FAs that give the Saints the most leverage in the draft. That's how the system works.