Juwаn Joһnѕon reveаlѕ һow tһe Sаіntѕ kept һіm from reunіtіng wіtһ Seаn Pаyton

Juwan Johnson was one of the top free agents for the New Orleans Saints this offseason, and many experts thought he’d move on to a new team in free agency. Coming off the best season of his career in 2024, it would’ve been completely understandable if he left the Saints for a better situation. Instead, the veteran tight end signed a three-year deal worth $30 million to return to New Orleans.

On Monday, Johnson spoke with the media, and he revealed two teams that were after him in free agency: the Denver Broncos and the Seattle Seahawks. Everyone assumed Denver was an option for Johnson, because Sean Payton is the head coach, and he seems motivated to bring every Saints’ player or coach to the Broncos when they are available.

There’s also a familiar connection in Seattle, with Klint Kubiak taking over as the Seahawks new offensive coordinator. Kubiak was the OC for the Saints last season, and Johnson had his most productive year, so sticking with him would’ve made sense.

Ultimately, the veteran tight end decided to stay with the Saints, and he explained why. In addition to New Orleans being home for his family, Johnson admitted that a call with Kellen Moore is what sealed the deal for him to return.

Juwan Johnson says a call with Kellen Moore led to his return to the Saints

Johnson didn’t go in depth on what he and more talked about, but he did say it was about the first-year head coach’s vision. The tight end came away impressed, admitting that Moore wasn’t trying to sell him dreams, and still, he finished the conversation excited about the team’s direction under their new head coach.

While Moore wasn’t selling dreams, he likely was convincing Johnson that he’ll continue to be the team’s top tight end, and a big part of what New Orleans does offensively. In 2024, Johnson caught 50 passes for 548 yards, both career highs, and three touchdowns.

While he hasn’t necessarily impressed fans with his upside, he has consistently improved, and will have the opportunity to continue that development under Kellen Moore. After their late-night phone call, that resulted in Johnson staying with the Saints, the two are off to a great start.