The New Orleans Saints continued to add depth this week, with one player who could potentially slot into a major need on the offensive line.
The team announced a pair of signings Monday afternoon. The first was that of veteran DB Ugo Amadi who will return for Year 3 in New Orleans, followed by the signing of versatile offensive lineman Dillon Radunz. Both deals are for 1 year.
Amadi has been an important player for the Saints the past few years, primarily in a reserve role and filling in for injuries. Amadi started five games down the stretch of last season at the slot corner position after injuries to both Paulson Adebo and Marshon Lattimore, with the latter sent out via trade. He'll likely compete for a depth role, again, on Brandon Staley's defense.
Radunz, however, appears to have more upside as a potential starter for the Saints in 2025. The former second round pick of the Tennessee Titans has taken snaps at four different line spots, though he's primarily played on the right side of the line. Radunz, 26, started 15 games for the Titans at RG in 2024, and also started multiple games at right tackle the prior season.
The biggest question could be how well he looks shifting across the line, with the Saints' biggest need being a stable left guard. Last year's Week 1 starter, Lucas Patrick, signed with the Bengals this offseason after an injury-plagued year with the Saints. Also in the mix will be third-year pro Nick Saldiveri, another player who has battled injuries. Free agent signings Will Clapp and Landon Young could also factor into that conversation, as could a potential draft pick next month.
The Saints appear to have starters in place at their four other line spots, assuming there isn't an upgrade or change in mind at right tackle with Trevor Penning. Taliese Fuaga is headed into Year 2 as the presumed left tackle, while center Erik McCoy and RG Cesar Ruiz are entrenched at their respective positions.
The moves continue what has largely been a subdued free agency, with the lone major contract going to safety Justin Reid (3 years, $31 million) and WR Brandin Cooks (2 years, $13 million). The Saints also inked significant extensions for DE Chase Young (3 years, $51 million) and TE Juwan Johnson (3 years, $30 million). The Saints also swung a trade for DT Davon Godchaux, and brought back cornerback Isaac Yiadom on a 3-year deal.
