There will be no late Kwon Alexander arrival this time around, at least not in New Orleans.
The former Saints linebacker and LSU standout has agreed to a free agent deal with the New York Jets, according to reports.
Alexander had become a fan-favorite in New Orleans since arriving by trade from the San Francisco 49ers in the 2020 season, a fast, hard-hitting, always-saying-legendary linebacker that vibed as well with Demario Davis as it might be humanly possible to vibe. That first year ended early with a torn Achilles in a Week 16 victory over the Vikings on Christmas Day, which led to his contract being terminated in a cost-cutting measure.
But Kwon returned to New Orleans midway through camp last season and continued to man the Will linebacker spot for much of the season, even after the Saints spent a 2nd-round pick on Ohio State linebacker Pete Werner. Alexander remained unsigned into training camp this time around, leading fans to hold out hope for yet another signing, but it won't be the case. His Saints run will end with 19 games played (15 starts), 50 tackles, 3.5 sacks, 3 fumbles recovered and one interception.
Alexander will rejoin Robert Saleh, the Jets head coach, who had served as the defensive coordinator with the 49ers previously. His deal was reportedly for one year.
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On the Saints' end, Werner appears to have the inside track to take over the starting linebacker job, but he's been unavailable to start camp due to injury. He's been working off to the side each of the first two days, and head coach Dennis Allen indicated his absence is not expected to last long.