Saints reach injury settlements with Marcus Sherels, Marshall Newhouse

The Saints put both players in injured reserve during the roster cut-down process Saturday.

Minnesota Vikings cornerback Marcus Sherels (35) against the New Orleans Saints in the NFC Divisional Playoff football game at U.S. Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports

NEW ORLEANS — The New Orleans Saints reached injury settlements with return specialist Marcus Sherels and offensive tackle Marshall Newhouse, releasing both from the team and allowing them to pursue playing chances elsewhere.

The Saints put both players on injured reserve during the roster cut-down process Saturday. 

An injury settlement commonly pays the player an agreed-upon amount based on the number of weeks he was expected to miss because of injury. However, the team that released him cannot re-sign him until six weeks after the settlement length.

The Saints added the veteran Sherels in March to compete for the punt and kick return jobs. His injury before the first preseason game created the chance for undrafted rookie Deonte Harris to impress coaches enough to earn a 53-man roster spot. Sherels returned punts and eights for nine seasons in Minnesota.

Newhouse is an eight-year NFL veteran. He signed with the Saints in May.