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[New Orleans Saints]

Saints sign former Eagles tight end Jack Stoll

Photo by Cooper Neill/Getty Images

Stoll heads to New Orleans to reunite with Kellen Moore.

The New Orleans Saints have made solid offseason additions so far, trading for Davon Godchaux and signing Justin Reid, but some holes still exist on their roster. The team was able to re-sign Juwan Johnson to a 3-year deal, which significantly boosted the tight end room. The work at TE was not expected to be done after bringing back Johnson, with GM Mickey Loomis saying at the combine that TE was a big focus this offseason and bringing in two was a priority. Many believed that the Saints would be getting another one in the NFL Draft, and they still could, but today, New Orleans made their second TE addition, signing Jack Stoll, per Ian Rapoport.

The #Saints add to their TE room, signing former #Eagles and #Dolphins TE Jack Stoll to a 1-year deal, source said. Coach Kellen Moore spent some time with him in Philly.

— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) March 13, 2025​

Last year, when Kellen Moore was the OC of the Philadelphia Eagles, Jack Stoll was heavily utilized in their offense as a run blocker. This was before getting cut due to the Eagles just not having enough roster space, but this role should be very similar to what he will be doing in New Orleans. This should not discredit his ability to still make play when passed to, and with the Saints, he should have an increased role.

Source: https://www.canalstreetchronicles.c...aints-sign-former-eagles-tight-end-jack-stoll

 

[New Orleans Saints]

Saints sign CB Issac Yiadom to a 3-year deal

Michael C. Hebert/New Orleans Saints

The free agent CB returns to New Orleans.

The New Orleans Saints have signed Isaac Yiadom to a 3-year deal worth $9 million and $4.86M guaranteed, per Ian Rapoport.

Welcome back Isaac Yiadom

Yiadom and the #Saints agree to terms on a three-year contract

Story: https://t.co/p9DEstxoYe pic.twitter.com/JHxfymgjAd

— New Orleans Saints (@Saints) March 13, 2025​

Yiadom was drafted by the Denver Broncos on the 3rd round (99th overall) of the 2018 NFL Draft and spent one season with the New York Giants (2020), Green Bay Packers (2021), and Houston Texans (2022).

He first signed with Saints in November 2022, contributing on special teams in 7 games. In 2023, Yiadom played in 17 games with 8 starts, recording 31 tackles (20 solo), one interception, a career-high 14 pass breakups (tied for 9th in the NFL) and one fumble recovery.

In 2024, Yiadom moved on to the San Francisco 49ers, playing in all 17 games with 5 starts. He finished the season with a career-high 44 tackles (career-best 36 solo), one interception, six pass breakups, a career-best two forced fumbles, one fumble recovery, two special teams stops and one recovery of a muffed punt. His career-best three takeaways were also a team-high.

Now Yiadom returns to New Orleans reuniting with Brandon Staley for another opportunity to be a contributor on both defense and special teams.

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Source: https://www.canalstreetchronicles.c.../saints-sign-cb-issac-yiadom-to-a-3-year-deal

 

[New Orleans Saints]

Saints awarded seventh-round comp pick after recalculation

Photo by John Smolek/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images

It’s never simple for the Saints.

The New Orleans Saints have been awarded the No. 254 pick in the NFL Draft after the NFL Management Council recalculated this year’s compensatory picks. The Saints were expected to get one when they were announced earlier this week, but they were left off the original list.

Nothing can ever be plain and simple for the Saints, can it?

The Dolphins got the original comp pick, but after corrections, pick 254 goes to the Saints. The pick was originally No. 256, but with the Saints getting it and moving up to 254, the Browns and Chargers now move back one pick each.

I'm told the Saints will now be getting pick 254 -- Previously the Browns pick. https://t.co/HM4YERw4mz

— Katherine Terrell (@Kat_Terrell) March 14, 2025​

The Saints were awarded the pick for losing Issac Yiadom in free agency last year. Ironically, he returned to the team just a couple day ago on a three-year deal after spending 2024 in San Fransico.

The No. 254 pick hasn’t produced much talent in the past with the most notable guys in the last decade being Pittsburgh punter, Pressley Harvin III in 2021 and Bears DB Elijah Hicks in 2022.

In all likelihood, the pick will be used in a trade package. Saints GM Mickey Loomis has shown in the past that he likes to move up in the draft, especially in the mid rounds, so there’s a good chance the Saints may never even make this pick.

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Source: https://www.canalstreetchronicles.c...d-seventh-round-comp-pick-after-recalculation

 

[New Orleans Saints]

CSC Poll Results: Which position should the Saints draft for first?

Photo by Bruce Yeung/Getty Images

What position did the fans believed to be the Saints biggest need now that free agency has started.

In our first poll question of the offseason, we asked our readers now that free agency has begun, what position would you like to see the New Orleans Saints draft in the 1st round of the upcoming NFL Draft?

WEEKLY POLL QUESTION

Now that we have seen the results of free agency, what position would you like to see the #Saints draft in the first round of the #NFLDraft ?

— Canal St. Chronicles (@SaintsCSC) March 11, 2025​

After 540 votes, skill position (RB/WR) won a close race with 30% of the vote. The Saints are very top heavy at these positions, as Alvin Kamara and Chris Olave are two of the better players at their position in the NFL, but they do not have much behind them. Other than Rashid Shaheed, none of the Saints RBs or WRs on the roster have shown much to be optimistic about. The top options at RB and WR, Ashton Jeanty and Tetairoa McMillen, may be realistic for the Saints at #9, but they may need to trade up a few spots to guarantee their shot at either.

Behind Jeanty and McMillen, the Saints may be better off trading down if they want a running back or receiver, as they could probably get the next best players at these positions, such as Omarion Hampton, TreVeyon Henderson, Luther Burden, or Emeka Egbuka, all should still be there in the mid-teens to early 20s. If the Saints want a TE however, the best ones, such as Tyler Warren and Colston Loveland, should still be there, and would be a good pick at #9.

Here are some other thoughts voters provided as to what the Saints should do in the first round:

Still would like Tyler Warren, but after losing Adebo, I think we go Will Johnson

— Boxcar (@boxcarbergeron) March 11, 2025​

1. Mason Graham
2. TMac
3. Jeanty
4. Warren
5. Johnson
6. Campbell
7. Shedeur

— Lucas Kits (@Lucas1300K) March 11, 2025​

3-4 pass rusher

— StressedSaintsFan (@stressedwhodat) March 11, 2025​

Do you agree with the poll results, if not what do you think the Saints should do with their first-round pick? Let us know in the comments below.

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Make sure you follow Canal Street Chronicles on X at @SaintsCSC, “Like” us on Facebook at Canal Street Chronicles, follow us on Instagram at @SaintsCSC, and make sure you’re subscribed to our YouTube channel. As always, you can follow me on X at @Hayden_Reel.

Source: https://www.canalstreetchronicles.c...ch-position-should-the-saints-draft-for-first

 

[New Orleans Saints]

Fleur-de-Links, March 14: Free Agency continues for the Saints

Photo by Fred Kfoury III/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images

Here are your daily New Orleans Saints links.

Saints bring back Will Clapp, Isaac Yiadom-Canal St Chronicles​

The New Orleans Saints added to their list of new players in the franchise by bringing back two familiar faces.

Saints sign Jack Stoll-CSC​

Stoll spent time in Philadelphia with Kellen Moore and now, will follow him to New Orleans looking to make an impact as TE2.

The #Saints continue to make moves in free agency. This is my lastest mock draft based on the moves they have made. pic.twitter.com/tHzNehrmxp

— Timothy J Jones (@tjayjones8) March 13, 2025​

Source: https://www.canalstreetchronicles.c...march-14-free-agency-continues-for-the-saints

 

[New Orleans Saints]

Bauer’s 2025 two-round NFL mock draft

Photo by Don Juan Moore/Getty Images

Who will go where in the first two rounds?

With the NFL scouting combine in the rearview mirror, and some pro days already over with, I thought it was time for my next mock NFL Draft. This time, I will give my thoughts on projecting the picks through the first two rounds.

ROUND ONE​

1. Tennessee Titans​

• Cam Ward, QB, Miami

Photo by Peter Joneleit/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images

2. Cleveland Browns​

• Travis Hunter, CB/WR, Colorado

Photo by Andrew Wevers/Getty Images

3. New York Giants​

• Shedeur Sanders, QB, Colorado

Photo by Ed Zurga/Getty Images

4. New England Patriots​

• Will Campbell, T, LSU

Photo by Gus Stark/LSU/University Images via Getty Images

5. Jacksonville Jaguars​

• Tyler Warren, TE, Penn St.

Photo by CFP/Getty Images

6. Las Vegas Raiders​

• Armand Membou, T, Missouri

Photo by Jacob Kupferman/Getty Images

7. Chicago Bears (PROJECTED TRADE WITH NYJ)​

• Abdul Carter, DE, Penn St.

Photo by Scott Taetsch/Getty Images

8. Carolina Panthers​

• Mason Graham, DT, Michigan

Photo by James Black/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images

9. New Orleans Saints​

• Ashton Jeanty, RB, Boise St.

Photo by Robin Alam/ISI Photos/Getty Images

10. New York Jets (PROJECTED TRADE WITH CHI)​

• Kenneth Grant, DT, Michigan

Photo by Gregory Shamus/Getty Images

11. San Francisco 49ers​

• Tetairoa McMillian, WR, Arizona

12. Dallas Cowboys​

• Josh Simmons, T, Ohio St.

13. Miami Dolphins​

• Kelvin Banks Jr., T, UT

14. Indianapolis Colts​

• Malaki Starks, S, Georgia

15. Atlanta Falcons ​

• Will Johnson, CB, Michigan

16. Arizona Cardinals​

• Luter Burden III, WR, Missouri

17. Cincinnati Bengals​

• Jahdae Barron, CB, UT

18. Seattle Seahawks​

• Grey Zabel, T, NDSU

19. Tampa Bay Buccaneers​

• Shemar Stewart, DE, Texas A&M

20. Denver Broncos​

• Emeka Ebuka, WR, Ohio St.

21. Pittsburgh Steelers​

• Derrick Harmon, DI, Oregon

22. Los Angeles Chargers​

• James Pearce Jr, DE, Tennessee

23. Green Bay Packers​

• Mykel Williams, DE, Georgia

24. Minnesota Vikings​

• Darius Alexander, DT, Toledo

25. Houston Texans​

• Tyler Booker, G, Alabama

26. Los Angeles Rams​

• Trey Amos, CB, Ole Miss

27. Baltimore Ravens​

• Xavier Watts, S, Notre Dame

28. Detroit Lions​

• Grey Zabel, DE, NDSU

29. Washington Commanders​

• Walter Nolen, DT, Ole Miss

30. Buffalo Bills​

• Maxwell Hairston, CB, Kentucky

31. Kansas City Chiefs​

• Tate Ratledge, G, Georgia

32. Seattle Seahawks (Projected Trade with PHI)​

• Matthew Golden, WR, UT

Round two​

33. Cleveland Browns​

• Jaxson Dart, QB, Ole Miss

34. New York Giants​

• Jack Sawyer, DE, Ohio St.

35. Tennessee Titans​

• Landon Jackson, DE, Arkansas

36. Jacksonville Jaguars​

• Tyleik Williams, DT, Ohio St.

37. Las Vegas Raiders​

• Jared Wilson, C, Georgia

38. New England Patriots​

• Shavon Revel Jr, CB, ECU

39. Chicago Bears (via CAR)​

• Josh Connerly Jr., T, Oregon

40. New Orleans Saints​

• Elijah Arroyo, TE, Miami (FL)

Photo by Michael Pimentel/ISI Photos/Getty Images

41. New York Jets (via CHI)​

• Colston Loveland, TE, Michigan

42. New York Jets​

• Cameron Williams, T, UT

43. San Francisco 49ers​

• Benjamin Morrison, CB, Notre Dame

44. Dallas Cowboys​

• Omarion Hampton, RB, North Carolina

45. Indianapolis Colts​

• Dylan Fairchild, G, Georgia

46. Atlanta Falcons​

• T.J. Sanders, DT, South Carolina

47. Arizona Cardinals​

• Jihaad Campbell, LB, Alabama

48. Miami Dolphins​

• Nick Emmanwori, S, South Carolina

49. Cincinnati Bengals​

• Mike Green, DE, Marshall

50. Philadelphia Eagles (via SEA, via PIT)​

• Nic Scourton, DE, Texas A&M

51. Denver Broncos​

• Harold Fannin Jr., TE, Bowling Green

52. Pittsburgh Steelers​

• Jalen Milroe, QB, Alabama

53. Tampa Bay Buccaneers​

• Demetrius Knight Jr., LB, South Carolina

54. Green Bay Packers​

• Azareye’h Thomas, CB, Florida St.

55. Los Angeles Chargers​

• Cameron Skattebo, RB, Arizona St.

56. Buffalo Bills (via MIN)​

• Alfred Collins, DT, UT

57. Carolina Panthers (via LAR)​

• Tre Harris, WR, Ole Miss

58. Houston Texans​

• J.T. Tuimoloau, DE, Ohio St.

59. Baltimore Ravens​

• Jonah Savaiinaea, T, Arizona

60. Detroit Lions​

• Elic Ayomanor, WR, Stanford

61. Washington Commanders​

• Princely Umanmielen, DE, Ole Miss

62. Buffalo Bills​

• Deone Walker, DT, Kentucky

63. Kansas City Chiefs​

• Quinshon Judkins, RB, Ohio St.

64. Philadelphia Eagles​

• Jalen Royals, WR, Utah St.

Source: https://www.canalstreetchronicles.com/2025/3/14/24384717/bauers-2025-two-round-nfl-mock-draft

 

[New Orleans Saints]

Saints reunite with veteran center Will Clapp

Photo by Cooper Neill/Getty Images

Clapp was drafted by the Saints in 2018.

The New Orleans Saints are reuniting with center Will Clapp to a one-year deal, per Ari Meirov.

The #Saints have signed veteran C Will Clapp. pic.twitter.com/yJ63fgAlp7

— Ari Meirov (@MySportsUpdate) March 13, 2025​

Clapp, 29, was drafted by the Saints in the seventh round of the 2018 NFL Draft. The veteran center was on and off the roster from 2018-2022 before signing with the Los Angeles Chargers where he would start due to injuries. Clapp would later sign a one-year deal with the Buffalo Bills in 2024 before hitting free agency in 2025.

The Saints faced a plethora of injuries to their offensive line in 2024, causing a carousel of lineups to start on Sundays. Offensive line struggles were one of New Orleans’ biggest weaknesses throughout the season, highlighted by injuries to Pro-Bowl center Erik McCoy.

Clapp provides the Saints with much needed depth to the trenches along with seven years of experience. At 6-foot-5 and 311 pounds, Clapp has played a variety of positions in the NFL and could fill in holes if needed due to injuries. The veteran offensive linemen also spent time in head coach Kellen Moore’s system during their time with the Chargers.

Clapp is a New Orleans native and went to Brother Martin High School before attending LSU.

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Make sure you follow Canal Street Chronicles on Twitter at @SaintsCSC, “Like” us on Facebook at Canal Street Chronicles, and make sure you’re subscribed to our new YouTube channel

Source: https://www.canalstreetchronicles.c...saints-reunite-with-veteran-center-will-clapp

 

[New Orleans Saints]

Saints remaining needs going into the second day of free agency

Photo by Jevone Moore/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images

Some moves have been made, but more work needs to be done.

Going into the 2025 offseason, the New Orleans Saints roster outlook for next season was worrying. A mix of aging players, young talent not performing to their best ability, and pending important free agents created a perfect storm of trouble. The Saints would have to do some work this offseason to improve the roster, and going into free agency, they have done just that. Still, more work needs to be done, so let us see which prominent positions of need remain.

Offensive Guard​

Last season, the Saints offensive line had its ups and downs, but throughout the year, left guard was an issue. Lucas Patrick played well in that spot but had some disappointing performances throughout the season, and now he is a free agent. The Saints have two options in free agency: either they can sign a short-term fix and develop a rookie behind that player, or they can sign a long-term option. Both are good options, but if the Saints can find their left guard for the foreseeable future, that needs to be the team's direction. Mekhi Becton, at 25, and Tevin Jenkins, at 27, are the top long-term options.

Cornerback​

After trading away Marshon Lattimore during the season and Paulson Adebo leaving in free agency, the Saints are left with only two starters at cornerback. Alontae Taylor is likely being moved back to slot corner, so the Saints need to find another boundary corner to put opposite Kool-Aid McKinstry. The team could wait until the draft to find this fix, but starting a rookie CB right away is a considerable risk, and some excellent players are still available in free agency. Two players that would make sense for the Saints are Asante Samuel Jr. and Rasul Douglas. Mike Hilton could be another option, but that is if Brandon Staley wants to use Alontae Taylor on the outside.

Outside Linebacker​

A main aspect of Brandon Staley’s defensive scheme is outside linebackers, which is not a position the Saints utilized in their previous defense. Some current players on the roster could move to OLB, such as Isaiah Foskey or potentially Chase Young, but betting on them having success there is a risk. A better idea is signing an OLB in free agency and selecting another one in the draft. Josh Uche is one name that jumps out to me due to his fit and the Saints’ interest previous interest in acquiring the player.

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Positions that are less of a need but could be addressed in free agency​

WR - Keenan Allen, Michael Gallup, Tyler Boyd

LB - E.J Speed, De’Vondre Campbell, Eric Kendricks

Offensive line depth - Corey Levin (C), Dalton Risner (G), D.J. Humphries (OT)

Source: https://www.canalstreetchronicles.c...eeds-going-into-the-second-day-of-free-agency

 

[New Orleans Saints]

Saints, Pelicans, and Chevron host STEM Fest 2025

Michaelea Neal/New Orleans Saints

The annual event was held in the Caesars Superdome for students in grades K-12.

On March 15, 2025, the New Orleans Saints, Pelicans, and Chevron teamed up to host STEM Fest 2025 where students participated in various Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math activities at the Caesars Superdome in New Orleans.

K-12 students, parents and teachers were invited to participate in the hands-on educational event featured live performances, interactive demonstrations in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) as well as Saints and Pelicans activities with their cheer teams and Sir Saint. Those who purchased tickets to the annual event also received a complimentary ticket to the Pelicans vs. 76ers game on Monday, March 24.

Founded in 2013, STEM’s mission is to expose, engage, and inspire future innovators, creators, makers and entrepreneurs through STEM-based activities and opportunities.

To learn more, please visit STEM NOLA

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Source: https://www.canalstreetchronicles.c...ints-pelicans-and-chevron-host-stem-fest-2025

 

[New Orleans Saints]

Former Saints guard Lucas Patrick is set to visit with the Seattle Seahawks

Stephen Lew-Imagn Images

The former start could be set to leave in free agency.

Last season, the New Orleans Saints offensive line dealt with constant injuries and new starters every week. Going into training camp, Nick Saldiveri was set to be the Saints’ starting left guard, but after suffering an injury early on, Lucas Patrick took over in that spot. At the beginning of the season, Patrick was really good at LG, but he was forced to fill in at other positions, and even more injuries occurred. Then Patrick dealt with his own injuries, which knocked him out for some time. One thing stayed true: Lucas Patrick shined in the Klint Kubiak zone-run offense. Now, Kubiak is the offensive coordinator of the Seattle Seahawks, and with Patrick being a free agent, there should be apparent interest there. Well, today, the Seattle Seahawks hosted Lucas Patrick.

#Seahawks hosted Lucas Patrick for visit

— Aaron Wilson (@AaronWilson_NFL) March 17, 2025​

The Saints were very unlikely to retain Lucas Patrick on the same contract they signed him for last season, so losing him was expected. The issue now is that the Saints truly do not have a starter at LG, and they need to find one.

Source: https://www.canalstreetchronicles.c...ick-is-set-to-visit-with-the-seattle-seahawks

 

[New Orleans Saints]

Saints sign DE Jonah Williams

Photo by Cooper Neill/Getty Images

New Orleans adds some depth off the edge.

The New Orleans Saints officially announced the signing of veteran DE Jonah Williams to a one-year deal on Monday afternoon.

Welcome to New Orleans, Jonah Williams!

https://t.co/CInFOdxQn3 pic.twitter.com/Sa85ZjT76z

— New Orleans Saints (@Saints) March 17, 2025​

Most recently a member of the Detroit Lions, Williams also spent time with the Los Angeles Rams and Minnesota Vikings during the 2024 season. He finished his fourth professional campaign with just 99 defensive snaps played, his lowest total since his 97 snaps as a rookie. The 29-year-old has three career sacks and 33 total pressures on 593 pass-rush snaps since signing with the Rams as an undrafted free agent in 2020.

With Payton Turner heading to the Dallas Cowboys and Tanoh Kpassagnon still unsigned, Williams brings an experienced camp body to the locker room. While adding a speed rusher in the NFL Draft should remain a priority, I’d like to see Kpassagnon back in New Orleans for 2025. Nonetheless, this move should still prompt some competition this offseason.

Source: https://www.canalstreetchronicles.com/2025/3/18/24388146/saints-sign-de-jonah-williams

 

[New Orleans Saints]

Davon Godchaux restructures contract with Saints, per report

Photo by Kathryn Riley/Getty Images

The Louisiana native is under contract through 2026.

The New Orleans Saints continue to make moves on their salary cap as they have restructured newly-acquired defensive lineman Davon Godchaux, according to reports.

Davon Godchaux restructured his contract after his trade to the Saints. He is still signed through the 2026 season, but void years were added. 2025 base of $1.255M w/ a $3.195M signing bonus and a $50,000 workout bonus. $3M of his 2026 base salary is guaranteed.

— Katherine Terrell (@Kat_Terrell) March 19, 2025​

Godchaux, 30, has been in the NFL for eight seasons playing for both the Miami Dolphins and the New England Patriots. The Plaquemines native and LSU product has racked up 425 tackles in his career to go along with 5.5 sacks and a pair of froced fumbles.

The Saints have been very meticulous this offseason in the moves they have made in terms of free agency and contract restructures, opening up north of $40 million in spending.

This news comes on the same day as Cam Jordan's recent restructure saved the Black and Gold over $10 million by lowering his base salary.

Source: https://www.canalstreetchronicles.c...-restructures-contract-with-saints-per-report

 

[New Orleans Saints]

Saints re-work yet another player contract

Scott Kinser-Imagn Images

Could a big move be in the works??

The New Orleans Saints and making cap space from restructuring deals is a yearly occurrence. It is not surprising that the team has to get cap-compliant and make signings to improve the team. These restructures are built into the contracts, so it is easy for the Saints front office to do them. The other way the Saints have gotten cap-compliant/made more space was by getting players to re-work their contracts. We just saw this from Cam Jordan taking a pay cut, and today, per Katherine Terrell, it was revealed that WR Cedrick Wilson has also done this.

Saints WR Cedrick Wilson reworked his contract, cutting his 2025 base salary from $3.4 million to the minimum of $1.17 million. His new cap number is $1.67 million. He previously counted $3.4 million against the cap. It still voids in 2026.

— Katherine Terrell (@Kat_Terrell) March 19, 2025​

With Wilson coming off of a disappointing year and getting older, this moves makes sense for the Saints. There is a connection with Wilson and HC Kellen Moore, so him staying with the team was expected, but there was a chance the Saints would only do that if Wilson took a pay cut.

This move adds even more money to the current cap space and the Saints should now be around $30,000,000. There is too much space for nothing else to happen this offseason, so keep your eye out for more additions to the team.

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Source: https://www.canalstreetchronicles.com/2025/3/19/24389448/saints-re-work-yet-another-player-contract

 

[New Orleans Saints]

Saints waive DT Camron Peterson

Photo by Derick E. Hingle/Getty Images

New Orleans has parted ways with the former UDFA.

The New Orleans Saints have waived DT Camron Peterson.

Saints waived DT Camron Peterson

— Nick Underhill (@nick_underhill) March 19, 2025​

The 6’5”, 280-pound former Southern University Jaguars defensive lineman signed with the Saints as an undrafted free agent during the 2024 offseason and has yet to play a regular-season snap as a pro. In his only preseason appearance, Peterson recorded one tackle and one stop, with zero pressures on 26 total snaps (18 run defense, 8 pass rush).

Source: https://www.canalstreetchronicles.com/2025/3/19/24389768/saints-waive-dt-camron-peterson

 

[New Orleans Saints]

Why the Saints should look at drafting Texas Tech running back Tahj Brooks

Photo by John E. Moore III/Getty Images

If they aren't able to snag Jeanty, Brooks would not be a bad option on Day 3.

Don’t panic when it comes to the running back position in this year's draft, because it is backloaded with talent. If the New Orleans Saints fail to land Boise State back Ashton Jeanty, there are many other prospects the Saints could take.

Tahj Brooks, a running back out of Texas Tech University, could be one of those candidates.

According to the school's website, Brooks, a fifth-year senior, is the university's all-time leading rusher, with 4,557 yards in 56 games. Additional career accolades include being named second-team all-Big 12 in 2024, a 2024 academic All-American, four-time academic all-Big 12, a two-time Doak Walker Award semi-finalist, and twice a semi-finalist for the Earl Campbell Tyler Rose Award.

“I feel like NFL teams should know that I can be an every-down back and that I can do good things out in the backfield,” Brooks said on the Up and Adams show. “When I’m hot, I’m hot.”

Few backs navigate tight spaces the way Tahj Brooks does. It's poetry in motion. #bobandweave pic.twitter.com/q7HaqiYpOY

— Max Crowe (@MaxCroweFF) March 16, 2025​

Over his five seasons with the Red Raiders, Brooks has also accumulated 45 rushing touchdowns and 103 receptions with two touchdowns. As of right now, he is projected to be selected on Day 3.

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Source: https://www.canalstreetchronicles.c...-drafting-texas-tech-running-back-tahj-brooks

 

[New Orleans Saints]

Saints set to host free agent guard Dillon Radunz on a visit

Photo by Cooper Neill/Getty Images

Some more interest in the offensive line market.

The New Orleans Saints have opened up a bunch of cap space with contract restructures and reworks, but with all the space they currently have, no more moves have been made. This has been surprising due to the needs on the roster, particularly at LG. The guard market is dwindling even more, with top option Tevin Jenkins going to the Browns, and the Saints may need to get their LG answer soon before it is too late. Shortly after the Jenkins news broke, it was revealed that free agent Dillon Radunz is set to visit with the New Orleans Saints this week, per Jeremy Fowler.

Free agent offensive guard Dillon Radunz is visiting the New Orleans #Saints this week, per source. The former #Titans OL was in Seattle earlier in the week and could take additional visits after New Orleans. pic.twitter.com/7htIru5qYB

— Jeremy Fowler (@JFowlerESPN) March 20, 2025​

Since being drafted by the Tennessee Titans in 2021, Radunz’s role with the team has been a bit all over the place. He has been played at every position on the Titans offensive line besides center, and last season was the first time in his career he stayed at the same spot all season. This was at RG, and although he season was not great, Radunz had to play next to one of the worst right tackle situations in the NFL. Blocking at RG with that next to you is not an easy thing to do, but at LG with the Saints, this could look much different. When fully healthy, Radunz would have Taliese Fuaga on one his left and Erik McCoy on his right, which is a major improvement from what he had to deal with in Tennessee. At only 26, Radunz could be the perfect short-term starter/depth piece player for the Saints.

Deal projection: 1-2 years, around $4 million a year.

Source: https://www.canalstreetchronicles.c...ost-free-agent-guard-dillon-radunz-on-a-visit

 

[New Orleans Saints]

Saints sign WR Brandin Cooks to 2-YR deal

Dale Zanine-Imagn Images

The signing brings Cooks back home to New Orleans, where his career began in 2014.

The New Orleans Saints have made another move in an already busy offseason, bringing former standout WR Brandin Cooks home on a 2-YR deal.

He’s back! The #Saints are signing Brandin Cooks, per The Insiders, as their first-round draft pick from 2014 returns.

Quick photoshop pic.twitter.com/IynHAN2Eh6

— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) March 21, 2025​

Comp update: Free-agent WR Brandin Cooks is signing a two-year, $13 million deal with the New Orleans Saints, per source. https://t.co/zdduuuXzoy

— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) March 21, 2025​

Cooks’ deal with the Saints will be worth $13 million, a relative steal for a position the Saints need improved depth at.

Cooks had much success in his previous tenure with the Saints, as many likely haven’t forgotten. He last suited up in the Black and Gold in 2016. Well-known as one of the speediest players in the room, Cooks could frequently be seen speeding up the sideline catching long bombs from Saints legend Drew Brees. Cooks has aged over the years, but has not lost that speed.

This is the first major move the Saints have made since clearing up over $30 million in cap space through re-structures. It surely won’t be the last.

Cooks’ return to the Saints is a welcome homecoming for fans and the team alike and he’s sure to be a potent weapon in Kellen Moore’s new offense.

Source: https://www.canalstreetchronicles.com/2025/3/21/24391171/saints-sign-wr-brandin-cooks-to-2-yr-deal

 

[New Orleans Saints]

Fleur-de-Links, March 21: Should the Saints trade up?

Photo by Derick E. Hingle/Getty Images

Here are your daily New Orleans Saints links.

Three trade up scenarios-Canal St Chronicles​

The New Orleans Saints are nearly a month away from the NFL Draft. Should they trade up from #9?

Will the Saints change their draft strategy?-Who Dat Dish​

Experts believe the Saints could look at changing their draft philosophy. What will that look like in 2025?

The Chant #Saints | @JustinqReid pic.twitter.com/KjAIm06ieS

— New Orleans Saints (@Saints) March 20, 2025​

Source: https://www.canalstreetchronicles.com/24390918/fleur-de-links-march-21-should-the-saints-trade-up

 

[New Orleans Saints]

CSC Poll: Which of the Saints offseason moves has been the best so far?

Photo by Todd Rosenberg/Getty Images

63% of voters said...

In this week's CSC poll, we asked voters which of the New Orleans Saints moves do they like the most so far this offseason?

WEEKLY POLL QUESTION

Which of the #Saints offseason moves so far do you like the most?

— Canal St. Chronicles (@SaintsCSC) March 19, 2025​

After 336 votes, the signing of safety Justin Reid was the runaway winner with 63.7% of the votes. The former Kansas City Chiefs safety signed a 3-year $31.5 million contract, filling a big position of need in the Saints secondary. Reid is has been a solid starter his whole career and is a two-time Super Bowl champion with ten career interceptions. He should pair well with Tyrann Mathieu as the Saints have had a revolving door at strong safety for most of the time Mathieu has been here.

Earning the second most votes with 16.7% was trading for defensive tackle Davon Godchaux. The Saints acquired him from the New England Patriots for a 2026 seventh-round NFL Draft pick. Godchaux is a very good run defender who has not missed a game since 2020. He will be a solid piece on a Saints defensive line that gave up the second most rushing yards in the NFL last season.

Do you think the Saints will make any more moves between now and the draft and who could they sign? Let us know in the comments below.

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Source: https://www.canalstreetchronicles.c...ints-offseason-moves-has-been-the-best-so-far

 

[New Orleans Saints]

Three scenarios where the Saints could trade up in the NFL Draft

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Three game changers who would elevate this roster.

The New Orleans Saints are entering the draft with needs throughout the team, but with investments made in bringing back players and making acquisitions, the roster is in a much better place than expected. Depending on who is available, and comp pick considerations, I would not be surprised to see the Saints make more signings in free agency, either before or after the draft. I’ve been very vocal about the Saints needing to sign a LG, and my preference is that happening before the draft, but if New Orleans has a deal lined up for after the draft, that is also fine. With more signings in mind and holes being filled outside of the draft, the Saints will have near-maximum flexibility with their picks. Currently, they have nine selections, and keeping these picks will be massive for building this team, but sometimes, there are scenarios where trades are on the table that make too much sense for the team. Today, we will discuss three trades in the top 10.

Photo by David Rosenblum/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images

The first trade will be expensive, surprising, and extremely doubtful, but it is not out of the question. Cam Ward is the consensus number one quarterback in the NFL Draft, and there are nearly zero arguments around that thought. New Orleans is going into the draft with the future at quarterback unknown, and although there is belief in Spencer Rattler around the Saints, we do not know how head coach Kellen Moore feels about Rattler. Yes, he may have some faith in the young QB, but if the opportunity is there to get Moore’s “guy” in the draft, it is hard to pass up. If I had to choose one quarterback that fits this, it would be Cam Ward, but the Saints will need to trade up to the number one pick if they want him. A quarterback changes everything about a team, for better or worse. It is arguably the most vital position in sports, and the Saints are in a fantastic opportunity to allow Ward to develop for a year while Derek Carr plays his last season in New Orleans. The other factor is that the Tennessee Titans need to be willing to trade away their selection.

The Tennessee Titans have not been in the conversations for any of the available veteran quarterbacks this offseason, which points them in the direction of going with Ward at 1, but this could all be a way to raise the price of their pick. The Titans entered the offseason, making that selection available for teams, and the interest could have been much lower than expected. For months, there was genuine belief this pick could be traded, but now, this would be extremely surprising. Draft season is filled with lies and smokescreens, but I always believe that if you must choose one of the rumors to put some stock in, go with the first one. Once again, this trade would be shocking, but if it does happen, here is what it could look like:

Saints receive: #1

Titans receive: #9, #71, 2026 1st Round, 2026 2nd Round, 2027 3rd Round

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Photo by Scott Taetsch/Getty Images

A dominant ED/OLB can change the outlook of any defense and can take over games. We have seen this with the Steelers, whose offense will freeze, but T.J. Watt will take over and win games. For the Saints, there is some hope Chase Young can be that difference maker, but at this position, it feels like there is no such thing as too many on a roster. Abdul Carter is that difference-maker in this year's draft, and trading up for him makes sense. His number one player comp is Micah Parsons, which is an easy comparison. Carter is dominant, extremely athletic, and has an insane bend; he is what the Saints need on their roster. In Staley’s scheme, Carter can be the OLB they are missing and head coach Kellen Moore has seen firsthand what a player like Carter can do for a team.

Regarding the trade itself, there is one place where this would make sense for both teams, and that is the New England Patriots at 9. In this scenario, Cam Ward, Shedeur Sanders, and Travis Hunter would go in the top 3, leaving Carter available at 4. The Patriots could just draft Carter, but the offensive line is a much bigger need, and getting more picks to improve the roster makes sense for where New England is. The other factor is the Carolina Panthers will 100% be equally interested in trading up for this pick. No team wants to face Abdul Carter twice a year, and this is something the Saints will be thinking about in this scenario. Need and worry about the Panthers trading up can create a perfect storm to make the Saints trade up for Abdul Carter, and this is what the deal could be:

Saints receive: #4, #77

Patriots receive: #9, #40, #93

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Photo by Michael Miller/ISI Photos/Getty Images

The last, but my goodness not the least, trade the Saints could make in the top 10 is for Michigan defensive tackle Mason Graham. New Orleans has done a good job at defensive tackle this offseason by keeping depth and trading for Davon Godchaux, but improvements can still be made. Graham would single-handedly improve the Saints’ run defense and pass rush. He is quick, strong enough to take on double teams, and always in position to make a play. Also, Graham has some positional versatility that makes him a centerpiece in both 3-4 and 4-3 defenses, which Staley switches between in his scheme. The next question is how can the Saints get him?

The consensus pick where Mason Graham is selected is at five by the Jacksonville Jaguars. This pick makes sense for the Jaguars, but they also has needs at cornerback and wide receiver. The Saints’ pick at 9 is better suited for those positions in this draft, and they get some more assets in the process. Just like with the Abdul Carter trade, the Panthers are once again a factor here. Carolina missed out on signing Milton Williams in free agency and clearly will not shy away from massive investment at defensive tackle. If the pick is available for trade, the Panthers will be the first to call the Jags, and just like with Carter, the Saints will not want to face Graham twice a year. With all of this in mind, here is how the Saints can trade up with the Jaguars.

Saints receive: #5,

Patriots receive: #9, #40

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Source: https://www.canalstreetchronicles.c...re-the-saints-could-trade-up-in-the-nfl-draft