Saints Bolster Receiving Corps with Veteran Addition
In a move to shore up their depleted receiving corps, the New Orleans Saints have agreed to terms with veteran wide receiver Marquez Valdes-Scantling. The 30-year-old visited with the team on Monday, impressing coach Dennis Allen with his workout and physical.
Filling a Need
The Saints were in dire need of adding another receiver after losing Rashid Shaheed for the season due to a meniscus injury. Shaheed was leading the team in receiving yards and touchdowns before his injury, and his absence left a significant void. With Chris Olave still in the concussion protocol, the team required a reliable option to bolster their offense.
A Proven Track Record
Valdes-Scantling brings a wealth of experience to the Saints, having started 60 games and accumulated 188 catches for 3,181 yards and 16 touchdowns throughout his career. A fifth-round draft pick by the Green Bay Packers, he spent four seasons with the team before stints with the Kansas City Chiefs in 2022 and 2023. Notably, he caught a touchdown pass in the Chiefs’ Super Bowl LVIII victory over the San Francisco 49ers.
A Much-Needed Speed Element
According to Coach Allen, Valdes-Scantling’s addition provides the team with a much-needed speed element, particularly in the wake of Shaheed’s injury. “He’s played in our league. He’s a bigger receiver, got a good speed element to him, and he’s somebody that can fit some of the things that we might be needing,” Allen said. With Valdes-Scantling on board, the Saints are hopeful that their receiving corps will receive a significant boost.
A Fresh Start
After being released by the Buffalo Bills last week, Valdes-Scantling is eager to make a fresh start with the Saints. Despite catching only two passes through six games with the Bills, he is confident that he can make an impact in New Orleans. With his experience and skills, he is poised to become a valuable asset to the team.
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