Saints Free Agency Grades

Grading the Saints free agent signings of Nathan Shepherd, Khalen Saunders, and Jamaal Williams.

Author:
John Hendrix
Updated:
Mar 16, 2023 12:33 PM EDT
Original:
Mar 16, 2023

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The Saints made some pretty big moves on the first official day of the new league year. New Orleans was in a tough spot after losing several key defensive starters to other teams, but quickly addressed some of their needs on Wednesday. Here's a look at the players they've picked up in free agency with some thoughts and grades.

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Nathan Shepherd

USATSI_19648035_168388561_lowres — Detroit Lions quarterback Jared Goff (16) scrambles with pressure from New York Jets defensive tackle Nathan Shepherd (97) in the second half. The Lions defeat the Jets, 20-17, at MetLife Stadium on Sunday, Dec. 18, 2022. Nfl Ny Jets Vs Detroit Lions Lions At Jets

Shepherd participated in 417 snaps (37 percent) for the Jets last season as a rotational player, appearing in all 17 games for their defense. He certainly developed a good bit in New York as run-stopper and finished out with 17 quarterback pressures in 2022 under Robert Saleh, arguably having his best season. He's someone who puts in the work and has been called a grinder, and was one of the longest-tenured Jets players. The lone criticisms from last season would be some of the missed tackles and finishing plays, but it's not from a lack of effort.

The Canadian product is a former third-round pick from 2018, and is commonly known as 'Shep' around the locker room. At an absolute worst-case scenario, he's a strong part of the rotation again for New Orleans who has some upside to his game. A fresh change of scenery could work really well for him.

Grade: B

Khalen Saunders

USATSI_19438026_168388561_lowres — Nov 6, 2022; Kansas City, Missouri, USA; Kansas City Chiefs defensive tackle Khalen Saunders (99) celebrates after a play against the Tennessee Titans during the game at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Denny Medley-USA TODAY Sports

Saunders is a two-time Super Bowl champion from his time with the Chiefs. His departure from Kansas City certainly spoke volumes for his impact there. When you look at his size, you'd automatically think of his ability as a run-stuffing presence. However, Saunders can move well and can actually be effective getting after the quarterback. He played 421 snaps (39 percent) for the Chiefs last season, and could be in for a larger role in New Orleans.

What remains to be seen is the approach with new defensive line coach Todd Grantham in the building. With Ryan Nielsen, the Saints would use a lot of rotations on their defensive line. Perhaps there's a clear vision for Saunders and his role with New Orleans, but we don't know that yet. Still, addressing this need the way the Saints did after what transpired last season in the running game is a breath of fresh air. Saunders is clearly a respected teammate who can make a consistent impact.

Grade: A-

Jamaal Williams

USATSI_19727846_168388561_lowres — Sep 25, 2022; Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA; Detroit Detroit Lions running back Jamaal Williams (30) in during the game against the Minnesota Vikings at U.S. Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jeffrey Becker-USA TODAY Sports

Perhaps one of the biggest surprises to come out of Thursday was the addition of Jamaal Williams, formerly of the Lions. He's coming off a career year after finishing with 17 rushing touchdowns and 1,066 rushing yards (4.1 yards per carry). His personality is going to fit in well with the locker room, and he is a major insurance policy for Alvin Kamara if and when he faces suspension. More importantly, Williams gives the Saints a really lethal tandem at running back, something that has been missed for a bit.

Williams could help be a big goal line threat and help solve some red zone issues for the Saints. The contract proved to be a great value for the team as well. There's really nothing not to like about this move, as New Orleans got a great one here.

Grade: A