New Orleans Saints Sign 9-year Veteran Defensive End Jonathan Bullard originally appeared on Athlon Sports.
The New Orleans Saints continue to add to their defensive line.
The Saints have agreed to a deal with veteran defensive end Jonathan Bullard, per NFL Network's Mike Garafolo.
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Jan 13, 2025; Glendale, AZ, USA; Minnesota Vikings defensive lineman Jonathan Bullard (90) against the Los Angeles Rams during an NFC wild card game at State Farm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
Bullard, 31, was drafted in the third round by the Chicago Bears in the 2016 NFL draft. Bullard spent two seasons with Chicago before he was waived by the Bears before the start of the 2019 season. The Arizona Cardinals would claim the former third-round pick, and he would spend the entire 2019 season with the Cardinals.
The former third-round pick would be on the move again after Arizona released him on final roster cuts ahead of the 2020-21 season. Bullard would have brief stints with the Seattle Seahawks and Atlanta Falcons in 2021 before finding a home with the Minnesota Vikings for the 2022 season until 2024.
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The Saints brought Bullard in for a visit in early June, but won't get a deal done until over a month later. The nine-year veteran has experience with defensive coordinator Brandon Staley from 2017, while Staley was the linebackers coach for Chicago.
Oct 29, 2023; Inglewood, California, USA; Los Angeles Chargers coach Brandon Staley watches from the sidelines against the Chicago Bears in the first half at SoFi Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY SportsKirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports
With New Orleans switching to a 3-4 defense, the team is in search of more pieces to fit the proper personnel. Bullard doesn't have a lot of production over his career, collecting 6.5 sacks over nine seasons. But the addition of the seasoned veteran adds to the team's depth and could be a big help in teaching their young core the switch to a 3-4.
