New Orleans Saints Sign Former Chiefs Defensive Tackle

The New Orleans Saints have recently signed defensive tackle Khalen Saunders to a three-year contract, as reported by Tom Pelissero of NFL Network on Wednesday.

Saunders, who was picked 84th overall in the third round of the 2019 NFL Draft, previously played for the Kansas City Chiefs, participating in 38 games during his four-year tenure.

A (literally) big addition for the #Saints: DT Khalen Saunders is expected to sign with New Orleans, sources tell me and @RapSheet.

Saunders is coming off his best season with the Super Bowl champion #Chiefs, recording 3.5 sacks. pic.twitter.com/8luPhWCLkO

— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) March 15, 2023

Despite struggling to progress beyond a rotational role with the Chiefs, Saunders achieved his best season to date in 2022, recording 3.5 sacks and three tackles for loss (TFLs) as part of the Super Bowl-winning team.

The Saints' defensive line has been significantly weakened this offseason due to the departures of David Onyemata and Shy Tuttle.  

Seems like just yesterday I was covering Khalen Saunders’ baby labor drama at the @seniorbowl.

Four years later, Saunders has three kids — and just got paid on a three-year deal worth up to $14.5 million with the #Saints. https://t.co/EMtvmjMGxj

— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) March 15, 2023

Although Saunders has not yet demonstrated the same level of production as the departed players, his signing represents a promising investment for the Saints, who are looking to bolster their talent pool along the defensive line. 

The 26-year-old is entering his fifth NFL season, compiling 81 total tackles, 4.5 sacks and two passes defended across 38 games played.
Photo Credit:  Denny Medley-USA TODAY Sports