Saints: 3 linebackers for New Orleans to sign after Andrew Dowell's injury
The New Orleans Saints got some tough news earlier this week. Linebacker Andrew Dowell was placed on injured reserve with a season-ending knee injury. Dowell has been an impact special teams player, and he provided good depth on defense at LB for the Saints. Now, they will have to find a replacement for him. On […]
The New Orleans Saints got some tough news earlier this week. Linebacker Andrew Dowell was placed on injured reserve with a season-ending knee injury. Dowell has been an impact special teams player, and he provided good depth on defense at LB for the Saints.
Now, they will have to find a replacement for him. On the roster, there are young players like Nick Anderson and Anfernee Orji who could emerge as depth pieces/role players. D'Marco Jackson and Nephi Sewell will jockey for a spot as well. Zack Baun is expected to have an edge rusher-type role going forward.
If the Saints decide to sign a free-agent linebacker (or multiple), who could they look at right now?
Zach Cunningham
Cunningham is a former second-round pick that has spent time in the AFC South so far in his career. He was known for his run-stopping ability in Houston and joined the Titans for the last two seasons. When he was on the field, he made a real impact for Tennessee as well. Unfortunately, he suffered injuries in both seasons with the team, ending his years early.
The Saints could take a flier on him as a cheap veteran that has experience on defense and special teams. He's probably the most physically talented option available in free agency.
Jayon Brown
Another former Titan makes the list. Brown, 28 years old, spent last season with the Raiders after being drafted by Tennessee in 2017. He played in eight games with Las Vegas last season, totaling 45 tackles. He held a backup linebacker role there as well and has experience on special teams. Brown has struggled with injuries some throughout his career, but he could make sense for depth in New Orleans.
Chase Hansen
A potential reunion on the horizon? Hansen never had a large role with the Saints, but he was in New Orleans from 2020-2022. His role was mostly on special team. New Orleans could look to add the veteran that is familiar with the staff and many teammates.
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