Have the Saints Made the Necessary Changes in Free Agency So Far?
The New Orleans Saints entered the 2025 offseason facing a familiar challenge, navigating a tight salary cap that made landing top free agents unlikely. However, through creative restructuring and strategic moves, they once again found ways to create space and retain key players while adding outside talent to bolster the roster. With new head coach Kellen Moore now at the helm, the Saints appear committed to remaining competitive in the NFC South rather than entering a complete rebuild. Their approach so far has focused on keeping foundational pieces in place while making innovative additions that fit Moore’s vision for the team. As free agency unfolds, it’s clear that New Orleans is determined to put together a roster capable of contending in 2025. Let's look at some guys they brought back and brought in.
Re-Signings
The New Orleans Saints made a significant move in free agency by re-signing defensive end Chase Young to a three-year deal worth up to $57 million. Bringing Young back solidifies their pass rush and lessens the urgency to target an edge rusher early in the draft. Under new defensive coordinator Brandon Staley, Young has the potential to thrive in a scheme that emphasizes versatility and aggressive front-seven play. His combination of speed and power gives the Saints a dynamic presence off the edge, and if he stays healthy, he could be a game-changer in disrupting opposing quarterbacks. With Young locked in, the Saints can shift their draft focus to other key areas of need, such as bolstering the offensive line or adding depth in the secondary.
The Saints also prioritized continuity on offense by re-signing tight end Juwan Johnson to a three-year, $30 million extension. Johnson has developed into a reliable target in the passing game, providing size, athleticism, and red-zone efficiency for the Saints’ offense. His return ensures that quarterback Derek Carr maintains a familiar weapon in the middle of the field, easing the pressure on the receiving corps. However, Johnson must consistently live up to this new contract, as his production has sometimes fluctuated. He could see an expanded role under Kellen Moore’s offensive system, particularly in creative formations designed to exploit mismatches against linebackers and safeties.
New Additions
The Saints made a key addition to their defensive front by trading for veteran defensive tackle Davon Godchaux. Known for his strength and ability to clog running lanes, Godchaux brings much-needed interior presence to a Saints defense that struggled against the run last season. His addition also lessens the urgency to target a defensive tackle early in the draft, allowing the team to focus on other pressing needs. Playing under Brandon Staley’s defensive scheme, Godchaux’s ability to take on double teams and free up the linebackers could be crucial in improving the unit’s overall performance. His experience and toughness should immediately impact a defense looking to reestablish dominance in the NFC South.
The Saints addressed a key defensive need by signing safety Justin Reid to a three-year, $31 million deal, pairing him with veteran Tyrann Mathieu. With safety emerging as a priority this offseason, Reid’s addition brings stability and playmaking ability to the defense's back end. His versatility allows him to play deep coverage while providing physicality in run support, making him a strong fit in Brandon Staley’s system. Teaming up with Mathieu, Reid gives the Saints a reliable and experienced duo that can help solidify the secondary. If he performs up to expectations, this move could be a crucial upgrade for New Orleans in 2025.
The Saints have made strategic moves in free agency, retaining key players like Chase Young and Juwan Johnson while adding impact newcomers like Davon Godchaux and Justin Reid. These moves strengthen the defensive front and the secondary while giving the offense continuity at tight end. Though the team faced cap challenges, they once again found ways to create space and stay competitive under new head coach Kellen Moore. With the draft still ahead and potential signings still on the table, the Saints may not be done making moves as they look to position themselves as contenders in the NFC South for 2025.
